A Guide to Buying Drill Bits

A Guide to Buying Drill Bits and Understanding the Different Types and Which is Best for Metal, Brick and Wood

Drilling is a fundamental task in many DIY and professional projects. Choosing the right drill bit can make a world of difference in your results. Whether you're tackling metal, brick, or masonry, having the appropriate drill bit is crucial for success.

In this guide, we'll delve into the different types of drill bits available right now. Highlighting the best options for drilling into metal, brick, and wood. We'll also introduce you to us - Fix and Fast. We are an online fixing business offering quality drill bits delivered next day.

What Different Types of Drill Bits are Available? 

Twist Drill Bits: These are the most common type of drill bits.  Suitable for a wide range of materials including wood, plastic, and metal. They feature a spiralled design that helps to remove material efficiently.

Masonry Drill Bits: Designed specifically for drilling into brick, concrete, stone, and other masonry materials. These bits typically have a carbide tip for enhanced durability.

Spade Drill Bits: Ideal for drilling large holes in wood, spade bits feature a flat, paddle-shaped blade and are available in various sizes.

Hole Saw Drill Bits: Hole Saws are used for cutting large diameter holes in materials like wood, plastic, and metal. Often used by plumbers to cut round holes in cabinets to allow pipework through.

You may also acronyms such as SDS and HSS mentioned when looking at drill bits.

SDS relates to the drill type and stands for Slotted Drive Shaft or Slotted Drive System. These drills are normally used in heavy duty drilling into brick, stone, or other masonry. SDS drills have a unique design and provides more power during drilling than standard hammer drills.

HSS on the other hand relates to a type of drill bit and stands for High-Speed Steel. HSS drill bits are designed for metal work, are hardwearing and much more heat resistant.

Whilst it isn’t recommended to use a SDS drill bit in a standard drill, HSS drill bits are compatible with any standard chuck.

What Are The Best Drill Bits for Metal?

Getting the right drill bit for metal will ensure smooth, precise holes without damaging the material.

The best drill bit for metal is typically cobalt drill bit. Cobalt bits are made from a high-speed steel alloy containing cobalt, which enhances their heat resistance and durability. These bits can effortlessly cut through tough metals like stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium, making them essential for metalworking projects.

Cobalt drill bits are engineered to withstand the high heat generated during metal drilling so offer excellent cutting performance. Additionally, using lubrication such as cutting oil or lubricating wax can further enhance the drilling process and prolong the life of the drill bit.

Our Presto HSS Heavy Duty Cobalt drill bit is one of the best options available.

What Are The Best Drill Bits for Brick?

Drilling into brick, concrete, or other masonry materials requires specialised drill bits designed to handle the hardness and density of these surfaces.

Masonry drill bits are your go-to choice. Masonry drill bits look like larger version of twist drills and feature a wide, arrow shaped head. Look for masonry drill bits with a carbide tip.

A carbide tip offers superior durability and can withstand the abrasive nature of masonry surfaces. Make sure to use a hammer drill when working with masonry materials to ensure efficient drilling.

What Are The Best Drill Bits for Wood?

Woodworking projects demand drill bits that can deliver clean, accurate holes without splintering or tearing the wood fibres.

Wood drill bits, also known as spade or paddle bits, are specifically designed for this purpose. These bits feature a sharp, flat blade that effortlessly cuts through wood, providing precise holes for various applications.

Auger drill bits offer enhanced control and versatility therefore are preferred for more detailed woodwork. Auger drill bits look a like a corkscrew and provide a clean, uniform hole. The twist is helical so carries the wood shaving away from the cutter preventing clogging.

Different Types of Drill Bits  - Recap

Choosing the right drill bit is essential for achieving precise and efficient results in your drilling projects. Understanding the different types of drill bits available and selecting the best option for your specific material and application will ensure success in your DIY endeavours. When it comes to sourcing quality drill bits and fixing supplies, look no further than Fix and Fast for all your needs.

Fix and Fast is your one-stop shop for high-quality drill bits and a wide range of other fixing and fastening products.

Fix and Fast, part of FR Scott Ltd, has a focus on providing reliable tools and supplies for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Offering a selection of drill bits tailored to various materials and applications. If you're tackling a home makeover project or working in construction, joinery or engineering, trust Fix and Fast to provide the fixings you need to get the job done right.