FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions


The name comes from the Silver & Deming Manufacturing Company, which popularized the design in the late 19th century.

The bit may be dull, the drill in reverse, or the wood too hard for the bit type.

Carbide tips last longer, cut faster, and handle harder, more abrasive materials than steel bits.

Long bits are used to drill through thick materials, reach into tight or recessed areas, or pass through multiple layers in one go.

Too much heat from high speed, no lubrication, or a dull bit. Slow down and use cutting oil.

No pilot hole, dull bit, drilling too close to edges, or drilling too fast.

The bit may be too small for the screw, or you’re not using enough torque.

Nope! We’re online-only, which helps us keep prices low and selection high. All orders ship directly to your door.

It lets you drill larger holes without needing a drill with a bigger chuck size — for example, a 3/4" bit with a 1/2" shank fits a standard 1/2" drill.

It allows large-diameter bits to fit in standard 1/2" drill chucks without needing a larger drill.