How to Choose a Drill Bit

Don't ruin your project by making the wrong selection. Follow this advice to help you drill down your choices to the correct one.

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You Will Need

  • Drill
  • Drill bit
  • Material to drill into
  • Expert advice
  • Caliper or drill gauge (optional)

Steps

  1. Step 1

    Determine what size hole to drill

    Determine what size hole you want to drill.

  2. Use a caliper or drill gauge to detemine the correct size if you need help.

  3. Step 2

    Consider the material

    Consider what material you are drilling into. The twist bit is used in most applications but there are many others depending on what type of hole you want drilled.

  4. Step 3

    Check your drill

    Check your drill to see what type and size it accepts.

  5. Step 4

    Choose a material

    Choose a material that fits your budget. Bits will range in price depending on the material they are made of. Titanium bits can be over three times the price of steel tip ones, but will usually last much longer.

  6. Step 5

    Ask for advice

    Ask an expert for advice. Shop at a store that sells drills and drill bits and talk to the salesperson about your project; they will be able to steer you in the right direction.

  7. In 1908, Howard Hughes along with Walter Sharp invented the rotary drill bit, which revolutionized oil drilling. It allowed machines to drill thousands of feet into wells.

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