Power Tool Buying Guide for Drill Bits

What Are Drill Bits?

Drill bits are cutting accessories designed to create holes in various materials when used with a drill. They come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, each suited for specific types of work—wood, metal, concrete, tile, or plastic. Choosing the right one makes a huge difference in performance, accuracy, and lifespan.

You don’t need to own every type, but having the right set on hand can save time and frustration, especially when working with different materials or tackling more precise jobs.

History of the Drill Bit

Drill bits go back to ancient times when hand-powered boring tools were used to carve wood or stone. The modern twist bit design as we know it was patented in the late 1800s by Steven A. Morse, who also founded the Morse Twist Drill and Machine Company. That design is still the foundation of most general-purpose bits today. Over time, bits evolved into more specialized forms, with advances in high-speed steel, cobalt alloys, and carbide tips to handle tougher materials.

What They’re Used For

Drill bits are used across nearly every trade and home application. Common uses include:

  • Drilling pilot holes in wood
  • Boring into metal or steel
  • Driving through masonry and concrete
  • Installing hardware, brackets, or fasteners
  • Cutting clean holes in tile or plastic
  • Making precise holes for furniture or cabinetry

Whether you're hanging shelves, running wiring, or doing finish work, there's a bit made for the job.

What to Look for When Buying

Not all drill bits are the same. Here’s what to look for:

  • Material Type:
    • High-Speed Steel (HSS): Good for general-purpose drilling in wood and plastic
    • Titanium-Coated: Lasts longer and stays sharper, good for metal and wood
    • Cobalt: Stronger, better for stainless steel and harder metals
    • Carbide-Tipped: For masonry, tile, and very hard surfaces
  • Point Style:
    • Split Point: Starts on contact, prevents walking
    • Brad Point: Designed for clean wood drilling
    • Masonry Tip: Carbide or diamond, used with hammer drills
    • Spade or Paddle: Great for large holes in wood, not clean but fast
  • Size Range:
    • Look for sets that cover the most common sizes: 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch
    • Specialty bits may go larger or smaller depending on the job
  • Shank Type:
    • Round: Standard, fits most drills
    • Hex: Resists slipping, great for impact drivers
    • SDS: Designed for rotary hammers, used in masonry work
  • Storage and Organization:
    • A good case matters. Bits are easy to lose and hard to identify without a labeled box.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Precision cutting for a wide range of materials
  • Easily swappable, works with almost any drill
  • Affordable and easy to replace
  • Huge variety for specific tasks

Cons

  • Dull quickly if misused
  • Some types are fragile (like glass or tile bits)
  • Wrong bit can ruin your material or the bit itself
  • Cheap sets often include filler sizes or weak metals

Compatibility and Usage Tips

Drill bits are compatible with most standard drills, but not every bit fits every job. Use the right speed, slow for metal, fast for wood. Don’t overheat bits; let the drill do the work. Always match the bit to the material and drill type, especially for masonry or impact use.

Lubricate when drilling metal to extend bit life. Clear debris often and avoid forcing the bit, especially when working with brittle materials.

Safety and Maintenance Tips

  • Always wear eye protection—bits can snap under pressure
  • Use clamps to stabilize work material
  • Replace dull or chipped bits immediately
  • Clean bits after use to avoid buildup
  • Store in a dry case to prevent rust
  • Never use a wood or metal bit on concrete or tile

Who This Is For

  • Homeowners doing general repairs, installations, or hanging hardware
  • DIYers building furniture, cabinetry, or light renovation
  • Pros working in trades like electrical, plumbing, framing, or finish carpentry
    If you’re drilling holes, you need a proper set of bits. It’s that simple.

FAQ

Can one bit work for all materials?

No, that’s a quick way to ruin your bit or damage your work. Use the right bit for the material every time.

Can I use a regular drill bit on concrete?

You can try, but it won’t get far. Use a masonry bit and ideally a hammer drill for proper results.

Why do my bits keep burning out?

Likely too much speed or pressure, no lubrication, or wrong bit for the material.

Final Thoughts

Drill bits seem simple, but picking the right type for the job makes all the difference. Whether you’re working with wood, metal, or masonry, using the correct bit saves time, protects your materials, and helps your drill perform better. Don’t cheap out on quality, and keep your set organized and sharp. It’s a small investment that makes every project smoother.