How to Choose the Best Drill Bits: Drill Bit Recommendations

Drill bits are the unsung heroes of countless projects, from simple DIY tasks at home to complex industrial operations. Whether you're drilling into wood, metal, or masonry, knowing you have a good quality drill bit at hand can make all the difference in achieving clean, precise holes and a smooth, efficient workflow.

With so many different types of drill bits available to choose from, selecting the right ones for your specific needs can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help simplify the selection process by covering key factors to consider when choosing drill bits, along with recommendations for the best drill bits available in Australia.

We'll explore top drill bit brands, highlight their strengths, and delve into the specific features that make each one stand out, in no particular ranking order. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to choose the best drill bit set for metal, wood, or any other material your project demands.

Matching drill bit specifications to your application is crucial for achieving optimal results and preventing damage to your materials or your drill. Before we dive into the specific recommendations for the best drill bits, let's explore the key factors you should consider.

If you’re already familiar with these specs, feel free to jump ahead to our overview of the “Best Drill Bits” (listed in no particular order).

Material Compatibility

Different materials require different types of drill bits. Using the wrong type of bit can lead to inefficient drilling, damaged materials, or even broken bits. Here's a quick overview of the main types of drill bits on the market:

• Wood Drill Bits: These bits typically have a pointed tip and a fluted design to remove wood chips efficiently.
• Metal Drill Bits: These are typically made from harder materials like high-speed steel (HSS) or cobalt steel to withstand the heat and friction generated when drilling into metal. They often have a sharper point angle and a different flute design compared to wood bits. With metal drill bits, it’s crucial to choose good quality bits specifically designed for the task. This is especially so when drilling into harder metals like stainless steel, helping to improve your efficiency and prevent premature wear.
• Masonry Drill Bits: These bits have a carbide tip to withstand the abrasive nature of heavy-duty materials such as concrete, brick, and stone. Find out more in our guide to drilling through brick.
• Multipurpose Drill Bits: These bits are designed to drill into a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. However, they may not be as effective as specialised bits for specific materials.

Durability

Professionals and frequent DIYers alike should consider the durability of their drill bits as a premium, especially given the high frequency of use and wear and tear incurred. Good quality drill bits are designed to withstand the rigours of repeated use and should maintain their sharpness and performance over time. Look for bits made from high-quality materials like HSS or cobalt steel, and consider those with additional coatings like titanium, black oxide, or cobalt. These enhance the bit's heat resistance, wear resistance, and overall longevity.

Design Features

The design of a drill bit significantly impacts its performance and ease of use. Some may even incorporate design innovations to enhance performance, such as split-point tips to reduce slipping and wandering, or specialised flute designs to provide cleaner holes and faster drilling. Considering the following key features will help you pick out the best drill bit for your project:

• Point Angle: The point angle of the bit determines how aggressively it cuts into the material. A sharper point angle is generally better for drilling into metal, while a wider angle is suitable for wood.
• Flute Design: The flutes are the grooves on the drill bit that help to remove chips and debris from the hole. Different flute designs are optimised for different materials and drilling depths.
• Shank Type: The shank is the part of the bit that is inserted into the drill chuck. Common shank types include straight, hex, and SDS, and you should choose a shank type that is compatible with your drill. Find out more in our guide to SDS drills.

Set Size and Variety

When purchasing drill bits, you may feel split between buying a comprehensive drill bit set or simply buying an individual bit on its own. The former offers a convenient way to acquire a range of commonly used sizes, while the latter allows you to purchase specific sizes for particular tasks, or to fill gaps in your drill bit sets.

While both options have their advantages, consider your needs and the types of projects you typically undertake. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, having access to a comprehensive drill bit set with a variety of sizes and types is a good investment. Learn more in our guide to drill bit sets.

Brand Reputation

Some reputable and reliable drill bit brands available in Australia include:

• RS PRO: RS PRO offers a wide range of good-quality drill bits at competitive prices, making them a great value option for both professionals and DIYers.
• Dormer: Dormer is a well-respected brand known for its HSS and cobalt drill bits, offering excellent performance and durability.
• Sutton: Sutton is an Australian brand that offers a variety of drill bits for different applications, including metal, wood, and masonry.
• Bosch: Bosch is a global leader in power tools and accessories, offering a wide range of high-quality drill bits for various applications.
• DeWALT: DeWALT is another popular brand known for its durable and high-performing power tools and accessories, including a wide selection of drill bits.
• Facom: Facom is a premium brand that offers high-quality, professional-grade tools and accessories, including a range of durable and precise drill bits.
• P&N: P&N is an Australian brand that offers a variety of tools and accessories, including cobalt drill bits known for their performance in drilling stainless steel and other hard metals.
• Starrett: Starrett is a well-respected brand known for its precision tools and measuring instruments, including a range of drill bits.
• Wera: Wera is a German brand that offers innovative tools and accessories, including a range of drill bits with unique design features for improved performance.
• Makita: Makita is a leading manufacturer of power tools and accessories, offering a wide range of drill bits for various applications.

Explore tools and components from these brands and more in our brand catalogue.

Price vs. Value

While good drill bits can be a costlier upfront investment, they offer better performance, longevity, and overall value in the long run. Consider your budget and the frequency of use when making your decision. If you rely on your tools daily, investing in high-quality drill bits for steel and other materials is crucial in maintaining high standards of productivity and efficiency. However, for occasional DIY use, a more affordable set might suffice.

The hardness and density of metal presents unique challenges compared to other materials, requiring drill bits with exceptional durability, heat resistance, and cutting ability. Whether you're working with stainless steel, aluminum, or other metals, choosing the best drill bits for your project is crucial for achieving clean, precise holes and preventing damage to your workpiece or your drill.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing drill bits for metal:

• Material: Cobalt drill bits are generally considered the best drill bits for stainless steel and other hard metals due to their superior heat resistance and wear resistance. HSS bits with coatings like titanium or black oxide can also be effective for drilling into less demanding metals.
• Heat Resistance: Drilling into metal generates significant heat, which can dull or damage the drill bit. Choose bits with high heat resistance to ensure longevity and maintain cutting performance and accuracy over time.
• Cutting Speed: The cutting speed of the drill bit should be appropriate for the type of metal being drilled. Harder metals require slower cutting speeds to prevent overheating and damage to the bit.

Top brands available in Australia to consider when picking out drill bits for metal include:

• RS PRO: RS PRO offers a range of cobalt and HSS drill bits with various coatings, providing good quality drill bits for metal at competitive prices.
• Dormer: Dormer's cobalt drill bits are renowned for their exceptional performance and durability in demanding metalworking applications.
• Facom: Facom's cobalt drill bits offer high precision and durability, making them a good choice for professional metalworkers.
• Krino: Krino offers a range of cobalt and titanium-coated HSS drill bits that provide a good balance of performance and value.
• Wera: Wera's innovative drill bit designs, such as the BiTorsion line, offer enhanced durability and performance for drilling into various metals.

Overall, if you're looking for the best drill for metal, consider a drill with variable speed control and sufficient power to handle the demands of metal drilling.

Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, investing in good quality drill bits can help achieve optimal results, prevent damage to your materials, and ensure the longevity of your tools.

RS Australia is your trusted source for high-quality drill bits for steel, metal, wood, and other materials. We offer a wide selection of drill bits from leading brands, ensuring you can find the perfect bit for any task.

Before making your selection, carefully assess your needs and consider the factors discussed in this guide. By understanding the different types of drill bits, their materials, design features, and applications, you can make informed decisions and choose the best drill bits for your specific needs.