How do you maintain taper shank drill bits?
Keep the shank and socket clean, store bits in protective holders, and resharpen as needed to maintain cutting performance.
Do taper shank drill bits need lubrication?
Yes, when drilling metal. Lubrication reduces friction, heat, and wear.
How do you choose the correct Morse taper size?
Check your machine’s spindle specifications — using the wrong size will cause poor fit and unsafe operation.
Can taper shank drill bits drill metal, wood, and plastic?
Yes — choose the right material and point style for the material being drilled.
Do you need a pilot hole with a taper shank drill bit?
For large diameters, yes — starting with a smaller drill improves accuracy and reduces load on the bit.
What materials are taper shank drill bits made from?
Usually high-speed steel (HSS) for general-purpose drilling, with cobalt or carbide options for harder materials.
What sizes do taper shank drill bits come in?
They range from small diameters to over 3 inches, with shanks matching common Morse taper sizes.
Can you use a taper shank drill bit in a handheld drill?
No — they’re designed for stationary machines with matching tapered sockets.
Do taper shank drill bits slip in the socket?
When properly seated and clean, they rarely slip. If slippage occurs, clean both the bit shank and the spindle socket.
How do you remove a taper shank drill bit?
Use a drift key (wedge-shaped tool) inserted into the spindle’s slot to knock the bit free.