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
Can I use a percussion core drill in a regular drill press?
No—core drills require specialized high-torque hand drills or mounted rigs designed for the bit size and hammer action.
What is the difference between diamond and carbide percussion core bits?
Diamond bits excel on very hard materials like reinforced concrete and stone; carbide bits are better for softer masonry and brick.
How long does a percussion core drill bit last?
Lifespan depends on the material, drilling technique, and cooling—quality bits can last for dozens of large holes when used correctly.
What safety precautions should I take when core drilling?
Wear eye and ear protection, use dust control or water cooling, secure the work area, and keep a firm grip on the drill.
How do I choose the right percussion core drill bit?
Match the bit diameter to your required hole size, select the right shank for your drill, and choose diamond or carbide teeth based on the material.
Do I need a special drill for core drilling?
Yes—core bits require a drill with enough torque, proper mounting, and often a safety clutch. For percussion core bits, use a hammer drill or rotary hammer with a core drilling mode.
What sizes are available for percussion core drills?
They range from small openings (around 1") to very large diameters (10" or more) depending on the drill and bit.
Can percussion core drills cut through rebar?
Yes, but it requires a bit designed for both masonry and steel, and it will reduce cutting speed.
Can I use a percussion core drill without water cooling?
For dry-rated bits, yes, but wet drilling with water cooling is recommended to extend bit life and reduce dust.
What is the advantage of a percussion core drill?
It’s faster for large-diameter holes, creates less dust and debris, and produces cleaner edges compared to standard drilling.
What is the difference between a core drill and a regular drill?
A core drill removes only the outer ring of the hole, leaving a solid core inside, while a regular drill removes all material from the hole.
How does a percussion core drill work?
It uses a hollow, heavy-duty bit with a diamond or carbide edge, combined with hammering action, to grind and chip away material around the hole perimeter.
What materials can percussion core drills cut?
They’re ideal for concrete, brick, block, and stone. With the right bit, they can handle reinforced concrete as well.
What is a percussion core drill?
A percussion core drill uses hammering action combined with rotation to cut large holes in masonry, concrete, or stone by removing a cylindrical core of material.
Where are Stanley HD-45 & Skil 736 masonry drill bits manufactured?
Manufacturing locations vary by supplier and model—check packaging or the manufacturer’s website for specific origin details.