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10 Best Drill Bits for the Job of 2024

Updated
Not all drill bits are the same. We show you the best for your project.

Drills are among the oldest tools that are still in use, and they are essential for any carpenter, plumber, handyman, or DIYer. Thanks to the amount of torque they produce, modern power drills can be used to make holes in almost anything.

However, even the most powerful drill is only as strong and effective as its bit. There are bits that can be used to drill through metal, wood, glass, or tiles, so it is important that you choose the right one for a specific task.

To help you find a bit that is suitable for whatever you are working on, we have reviewed ten of the best drill bits that are currently available. These bits were chosen for their material, length, cutting angle, and coating.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set
Best Titanium-Coated Drill Bits
DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set
  • 14-piece set
  • Titanium-coated
  • Broad size range
Product Image of the Makita SDS-Plus Drill Bit Set
Best for Concrete
Makita SDS-Plus Drill Bit Set
  • Specially designed flutes
  • Tungsten carbide-tipped
  • SDS design
Product Image of the DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set
Best for Drill Press
DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set
  • Pilot point tip
  • Titanium-coated
  • Ideal for drill presses
Product Image of the IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set, Wood Drilling, 8 Piece (1966892)
Best for Wood
Irwin Marples Forstner Drilling set
  • Carbon steel
  • Forstner design
  • Narrow shank
Product Image of the DeWALT Masonry Drill Bit Set
Best for Masonry
DeWALT Masonry Drill Bit Set
  • Manufactured in Germany
  • Rock carbide tip
  • 7-piece set
Product Image of the COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set
Best for Metal
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set
  • 135-degree angle point
  • Gold-oxide coating
  • 5% cobalt steel
Product Image of the Irwin Screw Extractor/Drill Bit Set
Best for Automotive Use
Irwin Screw Extractor/Drill Bit Set
  • 8% cobalt steel
  • Extractor set
  • Removes frozen bolts
Product Image of the Black and Decker Drill Bit Set
Best for PVC
Black and Decker Drill Bit Set
  • 10-piece set
  • High-speed steel
  • Most suitable for wood & plastic
Product Image of the Makita T-01725 Contractor-Grade Drill Bit
Best Black Oxide Drill Bits
Makita T-01725 Contractor-Grade Drill Bit
  • Professional-grade set
  • Hex shanks for impact drivers
  • High-speed steel
Product Image of the Bosch Glass and Tile Bit Set
Best for Tile
Bosch Glass and Tile Bit Set
  • Diamond ground edges
  • Carbide-tipped
  • Ideal for fragile materials

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we pride ourselves on our hands-on experience and professional assessments of the best drill bits on the market. Our analysis is based on a rigorous evaluation process, where we measure, test and compare the performance of different products, using a set benchmark. Our reviews are backed by solid evidence, credible data, and factual findings. We provide an in-depth examination of the design choices, the user experience, and what sets a product apart from its competitors. We rank products based on key decision-making factors such as durability, performance, value for money, and the material it’s designed to drill. Trust us to guide you in making the best decision for your drilling needs.



The Best Drill Bits of 2024

With numerous types of drill bits made by some of the leading names in tools, searching for the right one can seem overwhelming. To make it easier, we have reviewed ten of the best drill bits that are available today, with different materials and suitable for various drilling tasks.

DeWALT Titanium 14-Piece Drill Bit Set

Best Titanium-Coated Drill Bits

DeWALT is an American giant of power tools, so it is no surprise that the company produces excellent drill bits. This set of 14 titanium-coated bits should help you complete all your wood and metal drilling tasks.

They have a patented “Pilot Point” that bites into the stock the moment the drill engages. This means you won’t need to drill separate pilot holes in tough materials and the bit is less likely to slip across the surface.

DeWALT has kept the price reasonable, so these bits are suitable for DIYers and hobbyists as well as professionals. Their sizes range from 0.167 inches to 0.5 inches.

They also have a no-spin shank, which adds more security when drilling challenging materials. DeWALT claims these bits will last twice as long as standard bits, and the range of different sizes makes this a very versatile set of durable bits.

Pros

  • 14-piece set
  • Titanium-coated
  • Broad size range
  • Affordable

Cons

  • American-based but made in China

Product Specs

Pieces in set 14
Material Titanium-coated steel
Weight 14.9 ounces
Best for Metal, wood
Cost $

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

Excellent! This DEWALT Drill Bit Set offers a versatile range of 14 pieces that I've found to be a real asset in my toolkit. The 135-degree split point design of these bits allows for exact drilling without needing a pilot hole, and their durability has proven itself time and again, maintaining sharpness even after many uses. The clear labels for sizes enhance the user-friendly nature of this kit, making it quick and easy to select the right bit for different tasks. While the bits are somewhat tricky to secure back into the durable case, the overall utility and quality of this set outweighs this minor inconvenience.

Makita 5-Piece SDS-Plus Drill Bit Set

Best Drill Bits for Concrete

These are Makita SDS drill bits, so they are suitable for rotary hammer drills with SDS chucks. These chucks are not universal, so make sure your drill is compatible. The advantage of SDS chucks is that you won’t need to adjust the clamps like you would with a universal chuck.

These bits are far less likely to slip, which is why they are used for punching holes in concrete. They are very tough, with a tungsten carbide tip that provides 3 two 4 times the life of standard bits, even when drilling into reinforced concrete.

These bits come in a 5-piece set with sizes ranging from 0.188 inches up to 0.5 inches. They are suitable for chucks up to 0.875 inches in size.

They also have a specially designed flute to extract more material from the hole as you drill it. This will give you a better sense of the depth of the hole and reduce the chance of the bit binding and overheating.

Pros

  • Specially designed flute
  • 5-piece set
  • Tungsten carbide-tipped
  • SDS chuck

Cons

  • Only fits SDS rotary hammer drills
  • Specialty bit

Product Specs

Pieces in set 5
Material Tungsten carbide-tipped
Weight 11.2 ounces
Best for Concrete
Cost $

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Bought these drill bits for a project, and their performance exceeded my expectations. They fit perfectly into my hammer drill and made quick work of tasks that would have ordinarily been time-consuming. These bits showed very little wear even after drilling into hard concrete, demonstrating their durability.

DeWALT 21-Piece Titanium Drill Bit Set

Best Drill Bits for a Drill Press

If you use a drill press, the greater the variety of bits you have, the better. This DeWALT titanium set is ideal because it contains 21 pieces, enough for almost any drilling task you are likely to encounter. The sizes range from 0.167 inches to 0.5 inches, and they can drill through both metal and wood.

The titanium coating gives these bits twice the lifespan of standard ones and they should comfortably outlast black oxide bits.

The patented “Pilot Point” tip starts cutting as soon as it makes contact with the surface of the material, which reduces sliding and means you shouldn’t need to predrill.

Pros

  • “Pilot Point” tip
  • Titanium-coated
  • 21-piece set
  • Ideal for drill presses

Cons

  • Made in China

Product Specs

Pieces in set 21
Material Titanium-coated steel
Weight 1.05 pounds
Best for Wood, metal, drill press
Cost $$

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

In my journey of assembling a heavy-duty steel table, these drill bits came to my rescue. After trying multiple brands that barely scratched the surface, I stumbled upon this set. To my surprise, they sliced through the powder-coated steel like it was nothing more than play-doh. There was a learning curve though - I had to switch from a cordless to a full-powered drill to get the job done. From personal experience, these drill bits are not just efficient but also durable, outlasting many others in my toolkit.

Irwin Marples Forstner 8-Piece Wood Drilling set

Best Drill Bits for Wood

Irwin patented the world’s first auger drill bit, so the brand has always been associated with excellent bits. This 8-piece set of bits for drilling wood is made of high-quality carbon steel. The bits use the Forstner design, which means they specialize in drilling flat-bottom and pocket holes.

The sizes range from 0.25 inches up to 1.38 inches. The shanks are narrow so they will fit chucks up to 0.38 inches, and the bits feature optimum-sharpened edges to effectively cut through hardwood and softwood.

The design and quality of these bits mean they can drill far more quickly than many traditional Forstner drill bits. As a result, they are less likely to overheat, which will help them stay sharper for longer.

Pros

  • Carbon steel
  • Forstner design
  • 8-piece set
  • Narrow shank

Cons

  • Specialty bits for drilling wood
  • Not versatile
  • Designed for flat-bottom holes

Product Specs

Pieces in set 8
Material Carbon steel
Weight 1.84 pounds
Best for Hardwood, softwood
Cost $$

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4 / 5
Compatibility
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

In my woodworking journey, this set of Forstner bits by Irwin has been an invaluable addition. The bits are well-made, offering clean cuts with flat bottoms, and the longevity of the set is impressive, tackling numerous projects without a hitch. I've used them to create recesses for magnets, enhancing my tool hangers and organizers, and even a movable acoustic treatment, all with precision and durability. Just be sure to pair these bits with a substantial drill or drill press, as their robust design may be too much for a basic battery-powered drill.

DeWALT 7-Piece Masonry Drill Bit Set

Best Drill Bits for Masonry

This 7-piece set ranges in size from 0.188 inches to 0.5 inches to ensure it is suitable for most drilling tasks. The three flat sides on the shank make it more secure in the chuck and ensure the bit won’t slip when undertaking the most challenging jobs.

The rock carbide tip improves the bit’s heat resistance and helps it retain its excellent cutting edge. This drill bit set is ideal for cutting through reinforced concrete and stone, so it is perfect for masons and other construction workers.

The specially designed flutes remove more waste material from the hole, which keeps the bit from binding. It also reduces the chances of overheating, which will protect its lifespan.

Pros

  • Manufactured in Germany
  • Rock carbide tip
  • 7-piece set
  • Reasonably priced

Cons

  • Specialist tool
  • Brittle and could snap

Product Specs

Pieces in set 7
Material Carbide-tipped steel
Weight 8.8 ounces
Best for Masonry, concrete
Cost $

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

Love the experience I had with these drill bits! They're of high quality and worked perfectly for my needs, even when I used them on a ceramic bowl project. I appreciated the assortment of sizes, which made it easy to start small and gradually increase the hole size. They cut well, showing durability and proving to be a superior choice over cheaper, no-name varieties. From my personal use, I can vouch for their swift and effective performance.

COMOWARE Cobalt 15-Piece Drill Bit Set

Best Drill Bits for Metal

This Comoware 15-piece set was designed to drill through hard metals. It is made using 5% cobalt steel alloy, which is heat resistant and durable. Its bits are suitable for hard metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloys, and even titanium alloy.

The bits range in size from 0.063 of an inch to 0.375 inches, letting you drill various holes. The tip has a 135-degree split point, which will cut through hard materials and prevent the bit from walking.

The shanks are round to fit universal chucks, and the bit is coated in a gold-oxide finish to protect it against corrosion. It also benefits from having two flutes that remove more debris from the hole as you drill it.

The only downside of cobalt steel is that it is brittle and prone to snapping if it is placed under too much pressure.

Pros

  • 135-degree angle point
  • Gold-oxide coating
  • 5% cobalt steel
  • 15-piece set

Cons

  • Specialist bits for metal
  • The rigidity can lead to snapping

Product Specs

Pieces in set 15
Material Cobalt steel
Weight 12.8 ounces
Best for Hard metal, titanium alloy
Cost $$

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

For anyone looking for drill bits, this set is both sharp and durable, excelling at drilling through tough materials like steel. Though these bits aren't invincible, I found that using a moderate speed and consistent pressure, along with cutting oil, did the trick for drilling through stainless steel bars. However, I did have a bit snap on me, but that was likely due to excessive force on my part. It's important to keep in mind that these are cobalt bits, designed for hard materials, so misuse may lead to breakage. The set is priced reasonably, offering good value for money. Just make sure to check your set upon arrival, as mine was missing one bit.

Irwin 35-Piece Screw Extractor/Drill Bit Set

Best Drill Bits for Automotive Use

If you often work on vehicles, this Irwin 35-piece set is suitable for removing bolts, socket screws, and fittings thanks to the variety of different bits. This makes it ideal for automotive maintenance and repairs.

The set features easy-out flutes that can drill into stripped bolts, making them ideal for the rusted components of old cars and other vehicles. You also receive 8% cobalt drill bits that will drill through very hard materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, and other metals.

This set includes the most popular drill bit sizes, which range from 0.078 inches to 0.5 inches. Whether you work in an auto repair shop or want to restore your old car to its former glory, this drill bit and extractor set will help.

Pros

  • 8% cobalt steel
  • Extractor set
  • 35-pieces
  • Removes rusty bolts

Cons

  • Specialist attachments
  • Expensive

Product Specs

Pieces in set 35
Material Cobalt steel
Weight 1 pound
Best for Automotive industry, metal, removing stripped bolts
Cost $$$

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

I'm really impressed with this extractor set - it's tough, sharp, and made from high-quality steel. I've successfully used it to remove rusted screws and even a rounded bolt from my engine. Though it doesn't come with a T-handle, I was able to make it work with pliers, but it would have been a smoother process if a T-handle was included.

Black and Decker 10-Piece Drill Bit Set

Best Drill Bits for PVC

This 10-piece Black and Decker set is made of high-speed steel, which makes the bits durable and heat resistant. This prevents them from dulling quickly, which will help you use them for longer without sharpening.

Although high-speed steel is durable, these bits are better suited to less heavy-duty work such as drilling through wood, soft metals, and plastic. They range in size from 0.063 inches up to 0.25 inches, so you won’t have as much variety as some sets but should still be able to complete most standard drilling tasks.

One of the most eye-catching aspects of this set is its price. It is much cheaper than most of its competitors, which makes it an ideal choice for beginners or occasional DIYers.

Pros

  • 10-piece set
  • High-speed steel
  • Ideal for wood and plastic

Cons

  • Limited size range
  • Build quality issues

Product Specs

Pieces in set 10
Material High-speed steel
Weight 1.6 ounces
Best for Plastic, wood
Cost $

Our Ratings

Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
3.5 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This drill bit set has proven to be an excellent tool for various household tasks. The bits are sturdy, handling diverse materials well, and they haven't broken despite some serious usage. One thing to note is that they're not meant for masonry work, so don't expect them to perform well on brick or concrete. Regardless, for the price I paid, I am quite pleased with the performance and durability of these bits.

Makita T-01725 70-Piece Contractor-Grade Drill Bit Set

Best Black Oxide Drill Bits

If you want as much versatility as possible, this Makita set comes with 70 pieces. It has 0.25-inch hex shanks, which are only compatible with impact wrenches. The tips have 135-degree split points, and the black oxide coating protects them from high temperatures and general corrosion.

Each bit is made from modified, heat-treated steel to increase its lifespan. As the shanks are hexagonal, they will be more secure in the socket and won’t slip when drilling the toughest materials. These bits are very hard-wearing, which is why Makita has graded them as suitable for professionals.

The drill bits are compatible with standard drills and you can buy an adapter to connect the 0.25-inch hex shanks to your power drill for a small cost.

Pros

  • Professional-grade
  • 70-piece set
  • Hex shanks for impact drivers
  • High-speed steel

Cons

  • Some bits only fit an impact driver
  • Adapter needed to use some bits in a power drill

Product Specs

Pieces in set 70
Material High-speed steel
Weight 1.94 pounds
Best for Impact drivers, hardwood, masonry
Cost $$

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

Excellent indeed, this Makita bit set is a handyman's delight. It's a joy to have a single case that holds a wide variety of bits, eliminating the need for multiple kits. The shortened spade bits in this kit are a thoughtful addition, making it more compact. However, I encountered a slight hiccup with the black oxide drill bits, as they seemed to wear out quicker than expected. Additionally, the slots for the smaller bits could have been designed better to prevent them from falling out. Despite these minor flaws, this bit set has significantly streamlined my toolbox, making it a worthy addition to my collection.

Bosch 8-Piece Glass and Tile Bit Set

Best Drill Bits for Tile

If you are drilling through tiles, ceramics, or glass, this drill bit set is a great option. It has diamond-ground edges for increased performance and a centering tip that reduces the risk of bit walking. Sizes range from 0.125 inches to 0.75 inches to suit most drilling tasks.

A three-sided flat shank makes the bits more secure in the chuck and reduces slipping. This means better control and accuracy. Each bit benefits from Bosch’s innovative designs that help the bits cut faster. When combined with the carbide tip and reinforced head, you get a drill bit that grinds smoothly through glass, ceramics, and tiles.

Pros

  • Diamond ground edges
  • Carbide-tipped
  • Innovative design
  • Ideal for glass, tile, and ceramics

Cons

  • Specialist tool
  • Only suitable for some materials

Product Specs

Pieces in set 8
Material Carbide-tipped steel
Weight 3.36 ounces
Best for Tile, glass, ceramics
Cost $$

Our Ratings

Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Cutting Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Compatibility
2.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

I used these bits to drill through tile and ceramic pots, and they did the job pretty well. The bits made clean holes with little slipping and seemed to stay sharp for several uses, although some of the coating did wear off. For the cost, this product worked better than other brands I've tried, but be aware that they may dull after repeated use.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Pieces in set Material Weight Best for
DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set Titanium-Coated 14 Titanium-coated steel 14.9 oz Metal, wood
Makita SDS-Plus Drill Bit Set Concrete 5 Tungsten carbide-tipped 11.2 oz Concrete
DeWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set Drill Press 21 Titanium-coated steel 1.05 lbs Wood, metal, drill press
Irwin Marples Forstner Drilling set Wood 8 Carbon steel 1.84 lbs Hardwood, softwood
DeWALT Masonry Drill Bit Set Masonry 7 Carbide -tipped steel 8.8 oz Masonry, concrete
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set Metal 15 Cobalt steel 12.8 oz Hard metal, titanium alloy
Irwin Screw Extractor/Drill Bit Set Automotive Use 35 Cobalt steel 1 lb Automotive industry, metal, removing stripped bolts
Black and Decker Drill Bit Set PVC 10 High-speed steel 1.6 oz Plastic, wood
Makita T-01725 Contractor-Grade Drill Bit Black Oxide 70 High-speed steel 1.94 lbs Impact drivers, hardwood, masonry
Bosch Glass and Tile Bit Set Tile 8 Carbide-tipped steel 3.36 oz Tile, glass, ceramics

Are Drill Bits Interchangeable?

The vast majority of modern drill bits are interchangeable thanks to using universal chucks. Most drills now have a three-point chuck that can accommodate drill bits with round and hexagonal shafts. These are the most common types of shafts in use today.

However, some chucks are specialized and designed for drill bits with specific sizes and shapes. Impact wrenches and SDS chucks are examples of specialist non-universal systems.

How to Choose the Best Drill Bit

Like any power tool attachment, drill bits are each designed with different purposes in mind. This includes making holes of different sizes or drilling into specific types of materials.

Drill Bit Materials

Drill bits are available in many different materials. Some are less tough and are used for quickly drilling through everyday materials such as wood, while others can make holes in the hardest materials you are likely to encounter.

High-Carbon Steel

High-carbon steel drill bits are the most affordable type and take their strength from the tempering process. High-carbon drill bits cut metal and wood.

However, they are prone to losing their cutting edge more quickly than other types, especially as they heat up while drilling. They have the shortest lifespan of all drill bits and require frequent sharpening to avoid having to replace them.

High-Speed Steel (HSS)

High-speed steel drill bits are harder-wearing than high-carbon steel and better suited to higher temperatures. As they are less affected by heat, they won’t dull as quickly, meaning they can be used at faster speeds for longer.

These bits can be used to cut into metals, hardwoods, and most other materials.

Cobalt (HSBO)

A cobalt alloy steel bit is a variation of a high-speed steel bit. Thanks to the 8% cobalt in these bits, they have greater heat resistance and remain sharper for longer. However, cobalt steel is also more brittle, which makes these bits more prone to snapping compared to standard HSS bits.

Cobalt steel bits can drill through stainless steel and other tough materials.

Carbide

Carbide bits have tungsten carbide tips that will cut through almost anything and are extremely hard-wearing. This means they are suitable for cutting through reinforced concrete, steel, and masonry. Like cobalt bits, carbide-tipped bits are also brittle and prone to snapping.

Diamond

Diamond-coated drill bits are specialist tools designed to cut holes in brittle surfaces such as glass and ceramics. They have a coating of diamond grit that circles the cutting surface. Diamond bits have the highest heat resistance, meaning they almost never dull. They are also the most expensive option, so they should be considered specialist bits.

Drill Bit Coatings

Black Oxide

Black oxide is an inexpensive coating that lubricates the drill bit and protects it against corrosion. It also increases heat resistance, which should keep the bit sharper for longer.

This coating is achieved by heating the bit to 950 degrees. Black oxide-coated bits are suitable for cutting metal, alloys, wood, and composites.

Titanium Nitride (TiN)

Titanium nitride is a ceramic-based coating that prolongs the cutting life of a high-speed drill bit by three or four times. The cutting edge remains enhanced after sharpening, so this coating is great for the long-term effectiveness of your bits.

Drill Point Angle

118-Degree Standard

A 118-degree drill bit point angle is more aggressive, with a smaller chisel. It is the standard for drilling into softer materials such as wood and aluminum. You can measure the point angles between the two main cutting edges at the end of the bit.

135-Degree Self-Centering

A 135-degree angle is less aggressive as it has more pitch, which makes it flatter, and a longer chisel. As it is self-centering, it is suitable for drilling into harder materials such as stainless steel.

Drill Point Length

To calculate the drill point length, find the radius of the drill bit, then take the angle of the drill point and divide it by two. A standard drill point angle is 118 degrees or 135 degrees. You can then divide the radius by half of the angle to calculate the point length.

Flute Design

Flute designs vary on each drill bit. The flute is the long, deep groove that twists around the drill bit and extracts waste material from the hole you are making. Without a flute, drilling would be much more difficult and take longer as you would need to manually remove the waste material.

Flutes vary in size and shape, and a drill bit might have more than one flute, depending on its individual design.

Who Makes the Best Drill Bits?

There are countless drill bit manufacturers worldwide, but some brand names stand above the rest, including some that you will probably recognize.

DeWALT

DeWALT is a household name in the United States and around the world thanks to its high-quality power tools. The company was founded in 1923 by Raymond E. DeWalt when he invented the first radial arm saw to increase productivity at a sawmill (1).

In the century since, DeWALT has grown into one of the most recognizable tool brands in the world.

Bosch

In 1886, Robert Bosch founded the “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering” in Stuttgart, Germany. By 1901, Bosch transitioned into automotive supplies and earned a reputation for continued innovation (2).

Today, Bosch has more than 400,000 employees and a revenue of approximately 78.5 billion euros, making it one of the most prominent tool companies in the world.

Irwin Tools

Irwin Tools was founded in 1885 by Charles Irwin in Martinsville, Ohio. Irwin’s company patented the first Auger drill bit, which played a significant part in Irwin becoming one of the leading names in bits more than a century later. In 1993, Irwin Tools was acquired by the American Tool Company (3).

Makita

Founded in 1915, Makita started life as a motor sales and repair company dealing primarily in repairs and servicing. By 1958, Makita had introduced the first electric planer and shifted its manufacturing focus to power tools (4).

Today, Makita is a global power tool brand that is held in high regard for the quality and reliability of its tools.


How to Use Drill Bits

Drill bits are relatively straightforward to install and use. If you haven’t done it before, here is a quick beginner’s guide to help you get started:

1. What Material Are You Drilling?

It is important to know what you are drilling into as each drill bit will be more suitable for a specific material or type of material. In this guide, we will assume you are drilling into wood.

2. Select Your Drill Bit

Use a pencil to mark where you want the hole to go, then select your drill bit. If you are drilling into wood, especially hardwood, you will need a suitable drill bit.

Forstner drill bits create wider holes, such as the holes in kitchen cabinets where the door hinges are attached. Spade drill bits can also be used to make larger holes.

However, twist drill bits are the most common type used for drilling into wood.

3. Decide the Depth of the Hole

Before you start drilling, decide how deep you want the hole to be. Many modern drills have depth gauges but you can use a makeshift one by wrapping a strip of tape around the bit to indicate when you have reached the desired depth.

4. Insert the Drill Bit Into the Drill

If you have a keyless chuck, simply insert the bit into the 3-point clamps and slowly let the chuck tighten. Give it an extra twist to make sure the bit is secure. If you have a keyed chuck, insert it into the winding cog and open the clamps until they are wide enough to take the bit shaft. Insert the bit and tighten the chuck using the key.

5. Safety Equipment

Put on your safety goggles and an N95 face mask to prevent your eyes and lungs from wooden particles. You might also want to wear gloves to protect yourself from splinters but some people find it harder to control the drill when wearing them.

6. Aim the Drill

Gently press the point of the drill bit against the center of the hole marker to ensure it is properly aligned. As you are drilling through wood, you probably won’t need to make a pilot hole. For harder materials, a pilot hole can help you prevent the material from cracking.

Gently press the drill trigger to make the bit rotate slowly. As the drill starts to bite into the material, gradually increase the speed. You might want to stop a few times to remove any debris from the hole to ensure a neat finish.

7. Withdraw the Drill Bit

Once you reach the required depth, slowly rotate the drill bit as you pull it out. This will remove the final bits of waste material. When the bit is clear of the hole you have drilled, you can use a vacuum cleaner hose to remove any remaining debris.

8. Repeat

Repeat the process for any other holes you need to drill. Then, unplug the drill and remove the bit.

FAQs

What Drill Bits Stay Sharp the Longest?

Cobalt drill bits are made of a harder metal than regular steel bits and stay sharp for much longer. They’re ideal for drilling through tough metals, and can even be used on cast iron and stainless steel.

Plus, cobalt drill bits are less likely to break than other types of bits, making them a good choice for professionals who do a lot of drilling. But, cobalt drill bits are a bit more expensive compared to other types.

What Causes Drill Bits to Break Most Often?

Drill bits are designed to cut through various materials, but they are not indestructible. In fact, drill bits are one of the most commonly replaced parts on a drill. While there are many reasons why a drill bit might break, the two most common causes are deflected and twisted breakage.

Deflected breakage occurs when the drill bit becomes stuck or jammed in the drilled material. The force of the drill can cause the bit to snap at the point of contact with the material. This breakage is more likely to occur when drilling through hard materials such as metal or stone.

Twisted breakage occurs when the drill bit cannot penetrate the drilled material. The twisting force exerted by the drill can cause the bit to snap at the point of contact with the material. This type of breakage is more likely to occur when using large torque.

Both types of breakage can be prevented by using a quality drill bit designed for the specific material being drilled. In addition, it is important to use moderate pressure when drilling and to avoid forcing the bit through the material.

What Drill Bit Is Best for Hardened Steel?

Cobalt drill bits are the best option when it comes to drilling through hardened steel. These bits are made with a cobalt alloy, which makes them much harder than standard high-speed steel (HSS) bits.

They can retain their sharpness longer, making them great for use on tough materials. Also, the cobalt alloy provides greater heat and wear resistance.

Are Cobalt or Titanium Drill Bits Better?

Cobalt bits are made from a steel alloy that contains about 5 to 8% cobalt. This gives the drill bit a much higher heat resistance than standard steel drill bits, which is ideal for drilling through tougher materials. Cobalt drill bits are also less likely to break than other drill bits.

However, they’re more expensive than other options and can become dull more quickly when used on softer materials.

Titanium drill bits are made from a steel alloy containing about 10% titanium. It’s even more heat-resistant than cobalt, making it great for drilling through extremely hard materials.

But, titanium drill bits are even more expensive than cobalt drill bits and can also be more difficult to find.

What Is the Best Kind of Drill Bits?

Titanium-coated drill bits are considered the best kind of drill bits. They stay sharp longer and they resist heat better.

This means that they can be used for drilling through tougher materials without dulling as quickly. Titanium-coated drill bits are also less likely to break under heavy use.


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About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.