Drilling holes in concrete, wood, or plastic calls for more than just the drill itself. Drill bits come in different diameters, depths and shapes, to match a variety of applications. Whether you’re drilling a clean hole for a cam, or a tapped one for a bolt or screw, drill bits are what you need to get the job done right.
is your ultimate tool accessory destination, with a selection of drill bits from auger to
—we’ve got a ‘bit’ of everything! Whether you want a step drill bit, impact driver bits, or a drill bit for metal we’ll get you kitted out with the right drill bits for your next trade or serious DIY project.
Drill Bits FAQ
How do I know what drill bit to use?
If you’re in need of a drill bit, chances are you have a hole or two you need drilled. But what kind of hole? The depth, size, shape and material needed for the job at hand will determine the type of drill bit you need.
First up, what material will you be drilling into? Spade or auger bits work well for wood, masonry bits are ideal for concrete or brick, or for metal a twist drill bit will do the trick. Need a bit more? Beef up to a cobalt bit for harder metals like cast iron or hardened steel.
You’ll want to consider the shape too—for instance do you need a clean flush hole, or a conical shaped one to recess fasteners into? Big or small, drill bits are usually labelled with their size so check the diameter of the hole you need, and select that size in your drill bit of choice. Then, get drilling!
What are the different types of drill bits for?
Here’s a run-down of some common types of drill bits and what they’re used for:
- Masonry drill bit: This carbide tipped drill bit is what you need for tough materials like drilling into brick, concrete, and stone.
- Twist drill bit: This is the most common drill bit for
corded and
cordless drills. Featuring a spiral design for efficient drilling, it’s suitable for wood, plastic, and metal.
- Step drill bit: With its cone-shaped head with multiple stepped cutting edges, the step-drill bit (or uni-bit) is used for drilling progressively larger holes in metal and plastic.
- Concrete drill bit: A heavy-duty version of a masonry bit, specifically built for concrete. Often used with a
hammer drill for extra power.
- Wood drill bit: This is a general term for drill bits designed for wood, including brad point, spade, and auger bits.
- Countersink drill bit: Designed to make a cone-shaped hole so screw heads sit flush with the wood or metal surface, giving a clean finish.
- Tile drill bit: Features a spear-shaped or diamond-coated tip for drilling into ceramic, porcelain, and glass without cracking.
- Metal drill bit: Designed for cutting through metals like steel and aluminum, these tough bits are usually made from high-speed steel or cobalt.
- Auger drill bit: With a spiral-shaped head that resembles a large screw, augers are used for drilling deep, clean holes in wood, commonly used in
carpentry and timber framing.
- Spade drill bit: A flat, paddle-shaped bit that has a sharp point in the middle, a spade drill bit is used for drilling large holes in wood quickly. It’s often used in rough carpentry and
electrical work.
Is cobalt or carbide better for drill bits?
Cobalt and carbide are both great drill bits for different jobs:
- Cobalt drill bits are made from high-speed steel with cobalt alloy, making them tough and heat-resistant. They’re just the ticket for metalwork, fabrication, or automotive repairs that require drilling hardened metals like stainless steel and cast iron.
- Made from solid tungsten carbide or carbide-tipped, tungsten carbide drill bits are ultra-hard beasts that excel in extreme cutting conditions. They make easy work of heavy-duty applications like masonry and industrial metal cutting and can withstand extreme temperatures.
What bits are essential in a drill bit set?
Having a bit set with a variety of sizes and types for tackling different materials will set you up for success.
An essential in all drill bit sets, the twist drill bit is a versatile player that can handle plastic, wood and some metals—you’ll want some of these in at least a few sizes for general drilling jobs.
If you’re getting stuck into some serious DIY or you’re a professional tradie on the tools, then level up your bit kit with a selection of spade and auger bits for woodwork, and masonry bits for concrete and
brickwork. You might like to add in a step bit too as they’re handy for clean, gradual hole enlargement.
If there’s kitchen or bathroom renos on the cards, then a diamond drill bit or two will see you right for grinding holes through tough surfaces. Think glass, ceramic, porcelain, granite, marble, and reinforced concrete.
Drop into your nearest Tool Kit Depot or shop online today!
