Your Complete Drill Bit FAQ & Resource Guide
Drill Bit FAQ’s – Expert Answers & Buying Guide
Welcome to Drill Bits World’s ultimate FAQ library — your one-stop source for answers to everything drill bit related. Whether you’re a contractor, machinist, DIY enthusiast, or industrial buyer, we’ve organized our most common questions by category so you can find exactly what you need fast.
From choosing the right drill bit for your material to understanding specialty designs like auger, masonry, carbide, diamond, and extra long drill bits, you’ll find detailed, straightforward answers backed by decades of experience.
Need to know what bit works best for stainless steel, how to drill without cracking brick, or what “SDS” really means? It’s all here — plus tips to help extend tool life, improve drilling accuracy, and avoid costly mistakes.
If you don’t see your question here, contact us and our team will be happy to help.
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- FAQ's: Annular Cutters
- FAQ's: Carbide Tipped Drill Bits
- FAQ's: Diamond Drills
- FAQ's: Electrician's Drill Bits
- FAQ's: Extra Long Drill Bits
- FAQ's: Holesaw Drills
- FAQ's: Masonry Drill Bits
- FAQ's: Metal Working Drills
- FAQ's: Percussion Core Drills
- FAQ's: Reamers
- FAQ's: Reduced Shank Drills
- FAQ's: Silver & Deming Drills
- FAQ's: Stanley Hydraulic HD-45 & Skil 736 Drill Bits
- FAQ's: Taper Shank Drill Bits
- FAQ's: Wood Drill Bits
Do extra long drill bits come in metric and inch sizes?
Yes—available in both measurement systems depending on the application.
What’s the best speed for drilling with extra long bits?
Slower speeds for larger diameters and harder materials, higher speeds for small diameters in softer materials.
Can extra long drill bits be resharpened?
Yes—if they are HSS or cobalt. Carbide-tipped versions may require professional sharpening.
What is the difference between an aircraft extension bit and a jobber length bit?
Aircraft extension bits are much longer and designed for deep or hard-to-reach drilling, while jobber bits are standard length for general drilling.
How do you store extra long drill bits?
Use protective sleeves, racks, or cases to prevent bending and tip damage.
Do extra long drill bits break easily?
They can if misused—avoid side pressure, excessive speed, or forcing the cut.
How do you prevent an extra long drill bit from wandering?
Start with a short pilot hole using a standard-length bit, then switch to the extra long bit for full depth.
Can you use extra long drill bits in a hand drill?
Yes, but longer bits flex more—keep speeds moderate and apply steady, even pressure.
Can extra long drill bits drill metal?
Yes—use cobalt or carbide-tipped versions for hard metals like stainless steel, and apply lubrication.
What materials are extra long drill bits made from?
Typically high-speed steel (HSS) for general use, cobalt for hard metals, and carbide-tipped for masonry or abrasive materials.
What are extra long drill bits?
Drill bits with an extended flute and shank length designed to reach deep or hard-to-access areas while maintaining hole accuracy.
How do you maintain taper shank drill bits?
Keep the shank and socket clean, store bits in protective holders, and resharpen as needed to maintain cutting performance.
Do taper shank drill bits need lubrication?
Yes, when drilling metal. Lubrication reduces friction, heat, and wear.
How do you choose the correct Morse taper size?
Check your machine’s spindle specifications — using the wrong size will cause poor fit and unsafe operation.