Frequently Asked Questions
- 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
Which is better, carbide or diamond drill bit?
Carbide for metals; diamond for hard, brittle non-metals.
Which is better cobalt drill bits or carbide tipped drill bits?
Cobalt is better for general hard metal work; carbide tipped is best for extreme hardness or abrasive materials.
Which is better, cobalt or black oxide drill bits for masonry?
Neither — both are for metal. For masonry, use carbide-tipped bits.
Which is better, HSS or cobalt reduced shank drills?
For mild steel, aluminum, and wood, HSS is economical and effective. For stainless steel, hardened steel, and other high-tensile metals, cobalt will last longer and cut more efficiently.
Which is better, M35 or M42 drill bits for masonry?
Neither — M35 and M42 are cobalt steel grades for metal. Masonry requires carbide tips.
Which is better, TCT or HSS annular cutter?
TCT (tungsten carbide tipped) is better for hard materials like stainless steel and cast iron; HSS (high-speed steel) is more forgiving and cost-effective for mild steel.
Which type of drill bit is used only for drilling in wood?
Brad point, spade, and auger bits are wood-specific.
Why are carbide bits so expensive?
Tungsten carbide is costly to produce and machine, plus it offers superior performance and lifespan.
Why are diamond drill bits so cheap?
Many use a thin coating of industrial diamonds, which is inexpensive to produce compared to solid carbide.