Your Complete Drill Bit FAQ & Resource Guide

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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.

A hand drill works for most tasks, but a drill press gives more accuracy and control for precision work.

Too much heat from high speed, no lubrication, or a dull bit. Slow down and use cutting oil.

It depends on material, speed, and care—properly used, quality bits can last for hundreds of holes.

Yes, but aluminum is softer—use higher speeds and keep the bit clean to avoid clogging.

Use a bench grinder or drill bit sharpening tool to restore the cutting edge.

Coatings like titanium nitride reduce friction, resist wear, and extend bit life.

For larger holes, yes—a smaller pilot hole makes drilling easier and more accurate.

Mark the spot with a center punch to give the bit a starting point.

Carbide-tipped or solid carbide bits, or high-quality cobalt bits with proper technique.

Cobalt is better for tough metals; HSS is fine for softer metals and is less expensive.

Cobalt bits are solid alloy and great for hard metals. Titanium bits are coated HSS—good for general use but coating can wear off.

Yes. Lubricants like cutting oil reduce heat and friction, extending bit life.

Slower speeds for harder metals, faster for softer metals. Keep it cool with lubricant.

Use the correct bit, slow drilling speed, steady pressure, and cutting oil to reduce heat.

Yes. Stainless steel is hard—use cobalt or carbide bits with slow speeds and proper lubrication.