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 I need lubricant when drilling with HSS Silver & Deming bits?
Yes, in metals — cutting oil will extend the life of the bit and improve hole quality.
How do I choose the right Silver & Deming drill bit size?
Match the diameter to your required hole size and ensure your drill has the torque to handle the larger bit.
Do Silver & Deming bits have flat spots on the shank?
Yes — many have a 3-flat shank to prevent slipping in the chuck.
Are Silver & Deming bits only for drill presses?
No — they can be used in handheld drills, but due to their size, a drill press or magnetic drill is often preferred for accuracy and safety.
What’s the difference between HSS and cobalt Silver & Deming bits?
HSS is economical and suitable for softer materials; cobalt adds hardness and heat resistance for tough metals.
Can HSS Silver & Deming bits cut stainless steel?
They can, but cobalt versions are better for stainless and other hard metals due to increased heat resistance.
What materials can HSS Silver & Deming drills cut?
High Speed Steel versions work well in wood, plastics, and softer metals like aluminum, mild steel, and brass.
Why use a reduced shank on large drill bits?
It allows large-diameter bits to fit in standard 1/2" drill chucks without needing a larger drill.
What’s the typical size range for Silver & Deming bits?
They usually start at 9/16" diameter and go up to 1-1/2" diameter, all with a 1/2" shank.
Why are they called Silver & Deming drills?
The name comes from the Silver & Deming Manufacturing Company, which popularized the design in the late 19th century.
What is a Silver & Deming drill bit?
A Silver & Deming drill bit is a large-diameter drill bit, typically with a 1/2" reduced shank, designed to fit standard drill chucks while drilling larger holes.
Can I use a reduced shank drill bit for wood or plastic?
Yes — HSS reduced shank bits work well in wood and plastic, but ensure proper feed rates to avoid overheating or chipping.
What industries use reduced shank drill bits?
Common in construction, fabrication, maintenance, automotive repair, and industrial metalworking.
Are there coating options for reduced shank drills?
Yes — options include black oxide for corrosion resistance, TiN (titanium nitride) for wear resistance, and uncoated for general use.
Can reduced shank drill bits be used in impact drivers?
No — they’re not designed for the percussive action of impact drivers. Use in drills and drill presses.