HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DRILL BIT

Not sure how to choose the right drill bit for your drill? Drill Drivers are a super versatile tool and there’s a whole range of drill bits out there to suit different types of materials. Check out our key things to consider to choose the right drill bit for your next DIY project.

There are a whole range of accessories to pair with your Drill Driver making it very adaptable for a wide range of projects. Let’s run through some of the most common types:

HIGH SPEED STEEL (HSS) DRILL BITS

High speed drill bits are great for all types of timbers, plastics, and soft to medium metals. For stainless steel and other hard metals, cobalt helps cope with the heat produced while drilling.

When drilling into metal, wherever possible use cutting fluid as this helps keep the drill bit sharp and cool. If you’re drilling a pilot hole, your drill bit should be slightly smaller than the gauge of the screw. This is to help ensure that the thread of the screw will catch.

SPADE BITS & HOLESAWS

Spade bits are great for creating small to medium clean, consistent holes in timber. For best results, set your drill to high speed, and when you’re after larger, clean holes, add a holesaw in.

AUGER BITS

Auger bits are perfect for long, deep holes through timber and it’s best to set your drill on low speed for the high torque.

STEP DRILLS

Step drills are great all rounders for timber, metals and plastics. You will have almost all the sizes in one drill bit. You can simply stop when you drill the right size hole.

FORSTNER BIT

If you only need a clean, partially drilled hole, such as for hanging cupboard hinges, a plug cutter or forstner bit is your go-to.

MASONRY DRILL BITS

Don’t forget that some drills also come with a hammer function, so if you’re drilling into masonry grab a hammer drill and the suitable accessories.