Finding the right drill bits is a crucial part of any project. The wrong type of drill bit can lead to expensive mistakes or potentially dangerous outcomes. Usually, drilling work involves using one or more specific brands or drill bits designed for a certain application and task. That said, many types of drill bits are on the market, and finding the right one for your project can be confusing. Luckily, here are some tips for finding the right drill bits for your project.
1. Know What Type of Drill Bit You Need
Not all drill bits are created equal, and not every bit can do all jobs equally well. For example, a masonry drill bit is designed specifically for drilling into concrete and masonry, while a woodworking drill bit is designed to drill through wood. There are many different types of each type of drill bits. Knowing the specifics of the job you intend to do will help you find the right type of drill bit.
2. Determine the Flute Design Features of Preference
When choosing a drill bit, you have three choices: smooth bore, tungsten carbide, and advanced steel. In this regard, less is more; a smooth bore type of drill bit will produce cleaner holes and is recommended for softer materials like plastic and wood. A tungsten carbide drill bit is designed to produce quicker drilling results and is commonly used in metalworking applications.
3. Know Whether to Go for Ready-made or Customized Drill Bits
There are definitely some benefits to going with pre-made drills regarding the right fit. For example, a ready-made drill bit will likely have the perfect width for your project. If you need a particular drill bit size or don’t want to wait for an existing one to be custom-made, you can purchase a ready-made one. However, there are some reasons why it is not the best idea. For example, a ready-made drill bit may not produce the tool you need, ending up with an unused drill bit. Customized drill bits allow you to customize the shape and size of your tool for a specific purpose. Custom-made drills may be worth the investment if you’re unsure about your project’s exact size and shape.
4. Go for the Right Drill Point Length
You may have heard this before — “Drill bits are measured in inches.” While this is true, there are many other dimensions that you should consider. For example, drill point length refers to the actual thickness of the bit, while shank length depends on how far into the material your bit will go. Suppose you’re using a different type of bit with a special purpose, such as a larger diameter or a tungsten carbide drill instead of tungsten steel. In that case, these dimensions will also be important to consider.
5. Determine Which Drill Bit Type You Want to Use for Your Project
While there are many types of drill bits, the most common ones are spade and Phillips-head. Spade drills are generally smaller and enable faster drilling results than Phillips-head drills. For example, Phillips-head drill bits are great for drilling large holes in woodworking projects. Spade drills are better suited for smaller holes that require less pressure.
Finding the right drill bit can be confusing and frustrating. It is important to have a well-rounded understanding of the different types of drill bits out there and how they work before you go out and buy your first one. It’s best to educate yourself on the different options first so that you can select the right one for your project.