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.
- Show All
- 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
Can you use an annular cutter in a hand drill?
Not recommended. Annular cutters are designed for use in magnetic drill presses or rigid setups. A hand drill can’t provide the stability and torque needed for safe, accurate cutting.
Why do people use long drill bits?
Long bits are used to drill through thick materials, reach into tight or recessed areas, or pass through multiple layers in one go.
What do you call a long drill bit?
They’re often called “extra long drill bits” or “jobber-length,” “ship auger,” or “aircraft extension” bits depending on the design and purpose.
Is there a drill bit extender?
Yes. Drill bit extenders hold the bit securely and add extra reach—great for tight spots or deep holes.
How to extend the length of a drill bit?
You can use a drill bit extender or flexible shaft attachment to add reach without buying a new bit length.
Can you get extra long drill bits?
Yes. Extra long bits are available in various types—twist, auger, spade, and ship auger—ranging from 6 inches up to 48 inches or more.
Are longer drill bits better?
Not always. Longer bits reach deeper spots, but they can flex more and may be harder to control. Use the shortest bit that still gets the job done.
Will an auger go through wood?
Yes—easily, and it’s designed to clear chips as it drills deep holes.
Why is my drill not screwing into wood?
The bit may be too small for the screw, or you’re not using enough torque.
Why does my wood keep splitting when drilling?
No pilot hole, dull bit, drilling too close to edges, or drilling too fast.
Why can’t my drill make a hole in wood?
The bit may be dull, the drill in reverse, or the wood too hard for the bit type.
Which type of drill bit is used only for drilling in wood?
Brad point, spade, and auger bits are wood-specific.
What setting do you drill for wood?
Use the drill’s standard setting with moderate speed—no hammer function.
What kind of drill bits do electricians use?
Ship auger bits or flex bits for drilling through studs and joists.
What is the longest drill bit for wood?
Ship auger bits can reach 18" or more.