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
How to drill a hole in wood for beginners?
Mark your spot, use a sharp wood bit, set the drill to medium speed, and apply steady pressure.
How do I know if I’m drilling into wood?
You’ll feel less resistance than with metal, and the shavings will be light, curly, and sawdust-like.
How do I know if a drill bit is for wood?
Look for a sharp center point and spurs on the edges—these help guide and cut clean holes in wood.
Do you need special drill bits for wood?
Yes, for best results. Wood bits have sharp points and spurs to cut fibers cleanly.
Can you use a normal drill bit on wood?
Not ideal. While metal bits can drill wood, they’re slower and less clean. Wood bits are designed for faster, cleaner cuts.
Can I use the same drill bits for wood and metal?
Not ideal. While metal bits can drill wood, they’re slower and less clean. Wood bits are designed for faster, cleaner cuts.
Are auger bits good for wood?
Yes. Auger bits are designed specifically for wood, cutting clean, deep holes quickly and efficiently.
What drill bit to use for a wall plug?
Use a masonry bit that matches the wall plug diameter—typically 6mm to 10mm.
Are electric drill bits universal?
Most are, as long as they match the drill's chuck size (usually 3/8" or 1/2"). Specialty bits may need adapters.
What is the best drill bit for studs?
Auger bits are ideal for drilling long, clean holes through multiple studs without splintering.
What’s the best drill for electricians?
A lightweight, high-torque cordless drill with variable speed and compact design is best for electricians.
What tool does an electrician use the most?
A cordless drill and a set of job-specific drill bits are among the most-used tools for electrical installations.
What size hole do you drill for electrical wire?
It depends on the wire gauge and application. For Romex, 3/4" to 1" is typical through studs.
What size drill bit for electrical plug?
Common plug sizes range from 3/4" to 1 1/8"—step bits are ideal for this because they can create multiple hole sizes in one pass.
What is an electrical bit?
An "electrical bit" refers to a drill bit designed specifically for electrical work, such as wire routing or panel installation.