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
Will a normal drill go through brick?
Yes, with a masonry bit, but expect slower progress compared to a hammer drill.
Why won’t my drill go through brick?
Possible causes: wrong bit type, dull bit, drill set to reverse, or too little pressure.
How to attach a masonry bit to a drill?
Insert the shank into the chuck, tighten it securely, and ensure the bit is straight before starting.
How to drill into concrete with a regular drill?
It’s possible but slow. Use a masonry bit, start small, and work up to your final hole size.
How to drill brick without cracking?
Use a sharp carbide bit, avoid hammer mode on delicate brick, and start at a slow speed with light pressure.
How to choose a masonry drill bit?
Match the bit diameter to the anchor or hole needed, ensure it’s carbide tipped, and choose the right shank for your drill.
What size masonry drill bit for brown plugs?
Typically a 7mm bit, but always match the plug manufacturer’s recommendation.
What is the best drill bit for a brick wall, old brick, or concrete?
A high-quality carbide-tipped masonry bit. For old brick, use a slower speed to avoid crumbling.
What kind of drill bit for concrete and stone?
Carbide-tipped masonry bits or diamond-tipped bits for very hard stone.
What is the hardest masonry drill bit?
Solid carbide and premium diamond-tipped masonry bits are the hardest and most durable.
What are the best masonry drill bits?
Carbide-tipped bits from brands like Drill Bits World are reliable for both brick and concrete.
What is the difference between SDS and standard masonry drill bits?
SDS bits have special shanks for SDS hammer drills, allowing more powerful hammering and quick changes. Standard bits have smooth or hex shanks for regular drills.
What is the difference between a masonry drill bit and an HSS drill bit?
Masonry bits have a carbide tip for abrasive materials; HSS bits are hardened steel for metal and wood.
What is special about a masonry drill bit?
The tungsten carbide tip and wide cutting edges are designed to crush and chip hard materials rather than slice them like a wood or metal bit.
Can you sharpen a masonry bit?
Yes, but you need a bench grinder or diamond wheel. Hand sharpening is possible but less accurate.