A drill bit is an important component of a drill's functioning as it cuts through the material and makes holes in it. Drill bits can have different shapes and geometries and can be made up of different types of materials. Do you take care of your drill and perform maintenance on it routinely? If yes, then you’d know how much care drill bits need too. Drill bits are cheap compared to the drill itself but aren’t inexpensive or disposable tools. They influence the efficiency of the project you’re working on and how well you complete it, managing costs. So, it’s better to learn about drill bits in detail. We’re here for that guidance!

Masonry drill bits are used for drilling into concrete, masonry, stone, and any other hard construction materials. Drilling into wood or plastic requires a spiral or twist drill bit,so they are most commonly used in woodworking, e.g., furniture making. Thinking of improving your home? Hole saws help a lot when doing home renovation projects. High-speed steel (HSS) drill bits are used for drilling into metal, easing many of your outdoor projects and automotive tasks.

1. Understanding Different Types of Drill Bits

Masonry Bits

Features
They are made of steel and are tungsten carbide-tipped. The steel body is fused to the carbide tip. The 2 to 4 cutter tips (Split point tips) depend on the size of the drill bit. Spiral flutes for good removal of debris while drilling.

Uses
Masonry bits are best for drilling into masonry, stone, concrete, mortar, and other hard materials. Masonry bits are commonly used when installing shelves or frames on concrete walls. Masonry bits easily create holes for securing fasteners for such tasks.

SDS (Slotted Drive System) Bits

Features
The SDS bits are carbide-tipped, and the tips are welded.
Three to four flutes help in efficient dust removal.
Open-head design for fast rotation speeds.

Uses
The SDS bits are used in construction and renovation projects, such as creating holes for plumbing and electrical works. They may also be used in chiseling and demolition projects.
Best for drilling into reinforced concrete. They are well-suited for rotary hammer drills. It is suitable to use SDS bits with the ONEVAN Cordless Impact Drill for your next concrete and masonry tasks.

Spade Bits

Features
They are made from high-speed steel (HSS) material. The shape and geometry include a sharp center point for positioning and beginning drilling. Spade bits have slightly angled, flat cutting edges for faster removal of material and drilling a large hole. There are also tri-pointed drill bits with edges not angled but pointed.

Uses
Spade bits are used for fast drilling into wood or plastic. Want to drill quick large holes in timber or plywood? Spade bits cut quickly and leave a clean cut. Spade bits are useful for gate works and fence works. Running Ethernet cables through your home? Spade bits are the way to go!
Best for plumbing and wiring works. Spade bits are a cost-effective option when drilling larger holes into wood.

Twist Drill Bits

Features
Twist bits are made up of cobalt, titanium, or high-speed steel. They have a helical or spiral shape with two cutting edges. Twist drill bits can be of different types, including high helix angle, low helix angle, high-speed twist bits, reverse twist bits, and titanium or cobalt bits.

Uses
Twist drill bits are used for drilling into softwood, hardwood, plastic, metals like cast iron, and nonferrous metals like aluminum alloys and steel alloys. Twist bits such as cobalt bits also drill through weld seams.
Best for drilling when longevity and heat resistance are needed.

Auger Bits

Features
Auger bits are made up of HSS, or high-carbon steel material coated with black oxide or titanium-based coatings. They have a sharp spur at the center of the bit, and the shank is at the end of the bit. Sharp-cutting lips are the key feature of an auger bit that does the actual drilling. The hollow helical spiral flute removes debris from the hole.

Uses
They are used in woodworking, such as making holes for supporting fence posts. They are best for making large holes in wooden structures for passing wirings or installing fasteners or anchors. Do you like fishing? The spade bits are also useful in drilling holes through thick ice. It is best for your next gardening or construction projects.

Tile and Glass Bits

Features
They have painted and sharpened tungsten-carbide-coated tips. The tips are reinforced and can be spear-shaped or quad-tipped. The unique tips reduce the pressure on materials like glass or tile and prevent the material from breaking.

Uses
They are used to drill into porcelain, granite, tiles, and non-toughened glass. Porcelain diamond bits are the type of tile and glass bit used in rotary hammer drills.
Best for installing tiles or doing repairs on broken tiles.

Core Bits

Features
The hollow design produces less debris. Different-sized diamond core bits are used to install anchors and fasteners of various sizes. Large-diameter core bits produce more debris. Core bits can be of continuous rim or segmented rim designs. They are compatible with rotary hammer drills.

Uses
Segmented core bits are more useful for drilling into tough materials like concrete, concrete blocks, and stone. They drill holes faster in these materials. Continuous rim core bits are useful for delicate materials like decorative stone or tiles. Core bit is best for heavy-duty construction projects, including drilling into asphalt surfaces or collecting geological samples.

2. Understanding Drill Bit Sizes

Standard Drill Bit Sizes Explained

How to Measure Drill Bit Size

To measure the drill bit size use a pair of Vernier calipers to exactly measure the diameter of the drill bit at its biggest point. Make sure that the jaws of the calipers are fully closed. To measure the length of the bit, measure the tip of the shank where it starts to taper against the length of the fastener or anchor intended to be used. Always use the same measuring tool for your task.
If calipers are not available, a simple adjustable wrench can be used to estimate the drill bit diameter based on the size of your anchor.

3. The Impact of Drill Bit Shape on Performance

Twist Bits vs. Straight Flute Bits

Twist and straight flute bits are drills used for drilling wood, plastic, and metals. They have spiral flutes that clear chips, preventing overheating, while straight flutes rely on drilling action to remove chips. They are commonly used in DIY projects and can drill through thin metal sheets. Straight flute bits are used for deep-hole drilling in hardened steel where chip removal isn’t necessary.

Brad-Point Bits for Woodworking

Characteristics of Brad-point bits for woodworking include sharp center points that prevent wandering and ensure precise positioning and outer spurs that cut and clean the edges, reducing the risk of shattering. Some techniques for Brad-point bits usage include marking the spot using the awl and marker for precise alignment and applying even force to avoid the tear out, and the controlled speed of machinery can also prevent from causing damage.

Masonry Bits and Their Unique Designs

Masonry bits are tungsten-carbide tipped, which makes them extremely durable and versatile for drilling into tough materials. Whether drilling into concrete or masonry, the split point tips, strong shank, and spiral flute help drill easily into these materials.

Check out our powerful ONEVAN Cordless Hammer Drills & Drill Sets for your projects. Using the right drill bit and the appropriate drill will provide you with smooth results.

4. Choosing Cordless Hammer Drill Bits for Different Materials

5. Tips for Using Cordless Hammer Drill Bits Effectively

1. Select the right bit for the material as the choice of the appropriate drill bit will affect the efficiency of your task.
2. Use the hammer function appropriately because not all materials withstand the hammering action. When drilling through wood, glass, ceramic, or tiles, turn off the hammering action.
3. Check battery life before starting your project, especially when doing outdoor projects. Always keep an extra set of batteries.
4. Adjust the speed setting of the drill accordingly. The lowest speed setting is usually for drilling. Higher speed, along with hammering action, is used for drilling holes into concrete, etc., and chiseling tasks.
5. Apply steady pressure when drilling into the material. But don’t push too hard or too weak to prevent drill bits or motor damage.
6. Keep the drill bits sharp by using oil and creating pilot holes before drilling larger holes. Avoid putting strong pressure on drill bits to prevent wear and tear of drill bit tips.
7. Use the correct chuck type on the cordless hammer drill. SDS and SDS Max chucks are best for small to medium applications, while SDS Plus is best for heavy-duty applications.
8. Maintain good posture and avoid drilling above shoulder height to avoid fatigue. Apply the dominant hand on the handle and stand in a stable posture.
9. Cool down the bits time by time and by using water.
10. Follow the safety precautions of the manufacturer including wearing PPE.
11. Perform regular maintenance of your drill and drill bits to avoid breakage and wear and tear of machine parts.

6. Conclusion

Matching the drill bit according to the material you’re going to drill into is as important. Vernier calipers or adjustable wrenches can be used to measure the sizes and diameters of the drill bits for a specific task. This blog provides you with detailed information on which drill bit to choose for your cordless hammer drill, e.g., SDS bits for concrete and tile and glass bits for delicate surfaces. By keeping manufacturer guidelines in mind and considering all the tips discussed above, your next task can be completed smoother than ever! You can get efficient results with ONEVAN’s cordless tools like the ONEVAN Brushless Cordless Auto Hammer Drill and hasten your construction and renovation tasks. Choosing the durable and cost-effective drill bit saves you a lot of time, money, and effort, so choose wisely!

7. FAQ

The FAQ section will answer your queries about choosing the right drill bit for your cordless hammer drills.

How do I know which drill bit to use?
By measuring the diameter of the drill bit and according to the anchor to be used.

Are there multipurpose drill bits?
Yes, there are multi-purpose drill bits, but it is still recommended to use material-specific drill bits.

What is the difference between a regular drill bit and a hammer drill bit?
Hammer drill bits are hex-shaped, and regular drill bits can be of various shapes. Hammer drill bits are sturdier.

Can I sharpen my drill bits?
Yes, you can sharpen your drill bit by sharpening tools or by applying moderate pressure when drilling.

How long do drill bits last?
It depends on the type of bit you're using. 2-3 weeks of heavy use or up to 150-170 holes is the normal span for SDS heavy-duty bits.

Can I use a hammer drill without a hammer bit?
Yes, but the bit to be used should be hex-shaped. A hammer drill also serves as a normal drill when hammering is turned off.

What is the best way to clean drill bits?
The best way to clean drill bits is to dip them in acetone and wipe excess acetone after a few minutes with a towel. Mineral oil can be used for tough residues.