The result of your next big project relies heavily upon the drill bits you wield. Whether you use drills to work at home or you require them for professional tasks- there is a suitable drill bit for every purpose.
You can benefit from a plethora of drill bits even if you own a different-sized drill. For instance, you can use a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adapter to make the most of your drill!
Are you looking for the right drill bit to perform your job with ease but are uncertain where to start? Do not worry! This guide will find reviews of the top 5 best drill bits and a comprehensive buyer’s guide.
Read on to make the best decision for all your drilling needs!
Table of Contents
The 5 Best Drill Bits
You must already be aware that drill bits are available in a wide range of sizes and coatings. You can also find specific types that are appropriate only for particular surfaces. Generally, drills come either with a 1/2-inch chuck or a 3/8-inch chuck.
Most sets of drill bits boast of an array of bit sizes. If you have concerns about using smaller bits with a larger drill or vice versa, you can tackle them using an adapter. For example, for residential work, your machine is likely to be a 3 4 vs 1 2 drill that is apt for contractors.
You can handily use a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adapter whenever your drilling bustle calls for a greater hole.
Below, you will find a collection of the best drill bits that can satisfy your requirements with versatility.
1. DEWALT Drill Bit Set
The DEWALT DW1354 Drill Bit Set comprises 14 pieces in a well-rounded package. The drill bits in this set range from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch and 3/8-inch pieces. They feature a coating of titanium, making them suitable for a vast multitude of projects on wooden and metallic surfaces.
You will find that it is far more convenient to use a 1 2 inch vs 3 8 inch drill with this set of drill bits. It is because the DEWALT Drill Bit Set includes a 1/2 -inch bit along with smaller sizes you can accommodate using attachments like chuck adapters.
These drill bits consist of a tapered web that offers an increase in durability simultaneously with a decrease in breakage. The titanium pilot point tip promptly starts when it makes contact with the surface. It reduces walking as well, which is substantial for all your precision projects.
Pros
- Features no-spin shanks that resist slipping
- Carrying case included for convenience
- Titanium pilot point guarantees a longer life
- Flexible set with long and short bits
Cons
- Size markings on the drill bits are inconveniently faint
- Edges of the case might feel sharp
- Set does not include hex bits
2. VonHaus 100-Piece Drill and Drive Bit Set
With the VonHaus 100-Piece Drill and Drive Bit Set, you can carry out tasks that involve wood, metal, and plastic. The versatility of the set also allows for masonry work. It comes with not only a comprehensive set of drill bits but also screwdriver bits and nut drivers.
The kit has an all-in-one nature, and the drill bits feature a titanium plating. You can select from a wide variety ranging from 1/16-inch bits to 3/4-inch bits. It is apt for a tool that has a chuck measuring 1 2 inch vs 3 8 inch drill that is not suitable for extensive jobs.
Pros
- Comprehensive set suitable for almost all residential or professional purposes
- Includes specialist accessories
- Comes with a durable storage case
Cons
- Inclined towards heavy usage, might not suit beginners
- Bits may be slightly tedious to remove
3. IRWIN Drill Bit Set
The Irwin Drill Bit Set consists of 29 pieces, all featuring cobalt and industrial-grade steel construction. These drill bits flaunt an impressive resistance to abrasion as well as heat. The sizes go from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch in 1/64-inch increments, with a 135-degree split point that significantly minimizes walking.
You will not have to exert a considerable amount of force to begin drilling as the bits start upon contact. In addition to this, there is also a handy chart that makes choosing the correct bit easier.
Using this set will not be quite convenient for you to use a 3 8 drill vs 1 2 drill with a larger shank. It is due to the wide assortment of bit sizes that also includes many large drill bits. If not, then you can always equip your drill with a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adapter when using larger bits.
Pros
- Heavy-duty, durable construction
- Comes with a rubber case
- Perform well on hard surfaces
Cons
- High risk of turning dull, demands extensive maintenance
4. Tooluxe 10171L Titanium Drill Bit Set
The Tooluxe 10171L Titanium Drill Bit Set contains 13 pieces with 1/4-inch hex shanks. Tooluxe has used high-speed steel with titanium coating for the construction of its drill bits in this set. With a spiral flute type, you can cut with a higher speed and experience minimal walking.
The drill bits feature a 135-degree split point tip that drills cleaner holes. The set includes all the typical drill bit sizes. This set’s flexibility nullifies the 3 8 vs 1 2 drill debate as you can use them easily with attachments like a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adapter!
Pros
- 1/4-inch hex shank works well with all power tools
- Includes a rubber drill bit holder with size markings
- Affordable
Cons
- Better suited for light usage
- Finish may appear unsatisfactory
5. Drill Hog Cobalt Drill Bit Set
With a durable cobalt M42 steel constitution, this drill bit set by Drill Hog is of the highest degree of durability. The set consists of 29 pieces in 1/64-inch increments, from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch sizes. The drill bits have a 135-degree split point that works cleanly.
The bits sport a tri-flank shank that prevents even mild spinning in the chuck while you work. It does not matter if you use a 1 2 inch vs 3 8 inch drill- these bits work excellently with both!
Pros
- Spiral flute type results in neat drilling
- Anti-slip shank
Cons
- Expensive
- Unreliable warranty
Selecting the Best Drill Bits: Buyer’s Guide
If you want to perform a fine job, you must equip your drill with only the best drill bits. When buying drill bits, there are numerous factors that you must take into consideration. In this manner, you can assure yourself of their quality and delivery for a seamless experience.
Here are some bases on which you must evaluate potential choices for best drill bits.
Construction Material
There is a wide range of materials that go into the construction of drill bits. You can find hard materials like carbides that do not turn blunt quickly. However, such materials are often susceptible to breakage.
The nature of your drilling requirements must dictate the material you select for your drill bits. The ideal choices include high-speed steel (HSS) and cobalt steel alloys. For example, you may choose to use a 1 2 inch vs 3 8 inch drill for professional purposes. A similar explanation applies to the drill bits you use.
High-Speed Steel
HSS bits are heat-resistant in an impeccable manner. You can drill through wood, metal, and plastic with HSS drill bits.
Cobalt Alloys
If your usage involves drilling through stainless steel, then cobalt drill bits are suitable for you. They can maintain their hardness even at high temperatures.
Coating
Drill bits usually come with coatings that increase the life and performance of the bits. Typically, you will find drill bits with black oxide or titanium plating. Black oxide is a more affordable variant than titanium, providing resistance to heat. Black oxide also functions as a lubricant.
A titanium coating contributes to the longevity of the tools and provides excellent cutting. Such a covering is suitable for heavy-duty drilling tasks.
Pieces in a set
Drill bits come in sets, so you must scout out what kind of a collection will suit your needs. You have a wide range of sets at your disposal, some with 13 pieces, others with as many as 100 items! If you have a typical 3/8 drill, you can use a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adaptor to benefit from the larger variant. If you need the best drill bits for daily household tasks, then a smaller set would be appropriate. If you engage in more extensive projects, then a comprehensive drill bit set would be best.
To sum up
Even though the variety of drill bits available today is impressive, some undeniably boasts of an edge over others. With this guide’s help, you will be able to add more value to your decision when buying the best drill bits.
Top Pick: DEWALT Drill Bit Set
There is a handful of defining factors when it comes to checking the quality and suitability of drill bits. These factors include but are not limited to the construction material and coating of the drill bits.
Based on these factors, you can perhaps attribute the position of ‘top pick’ to the DEWALT Drill Bit Set. The set is excellently flexible and comes with an appropriate selection of drill bit sizes that you would commonly require.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have any persisting questions regarding drills or drill bits? In this section, you will find all the answers that you seek.
1. 3 8 drill vs 1 2 drill: What is the difference besides the size of the chuck?
A 3 8 drill has a 3/8-inch chuck, and a 1 2 tool has a 1/2-inch chuck. In addition to this, you can gain insight into the case of 3 8 drill vs 1 2 drill if you judge the nature of your requirements. 1 2 cordless drills often feature excellent batteries and work well for almost all projects. 3 8 drills have incredible power, and people most commonly use this size.
The batteries drain slower in a 3 8 drill vs 1 2 drill. It is because larger bit sizes generate more torque. However, 3 8 shanks may snap more easily. Most hobbyists use a 3 8 drill vs 1 2 drill that is suitable for contractors for their projects since it can withstand heavier usage.
The lighter variant is the 3 8 drill vs 1 2 drill that can get tiresome to hold for a lengthy period in terms of weight.
2. How can I use a 1/2-inch drill bit with a 3/8 drill?
If you own a drill with a 3/8-inch chuck, you can use a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adapter to accommodate a 1/2-inch drill bit. When buying a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adapter, you must take the shank of your drill into account.
Check whether your machine has a round or a hexagonal shank and pick a 3/8 to 1/2 drill chuck adapter accordingly. Some adapters may allow you to use them with multiple types of fittings. These attachments come either in a keyed form or a keyless variant.
3. Which is the best drill bit for metal drilling?
If you want to perform a task that involves soft steels, then a high-speed steel drill bit will be a suitable option. For harder metals such as stainless steel, cobalt drill bits are the best available solution.
As for the coating, black oxide plating will make drilling into metals easier since it reduces friction. Titanium-coated drill bits are also excellent, as they are more resistant to wear and tear. These are apt for construction purposes just as a 1 2 inch vs 3 8 inch drill.
Keep in mind that you will find variations even within the category of drill bits with a titanium plating. Titanium carbonitride (TiCN), and titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) coatings are the two types you are most likely to come across.
4. How is a twist drill bit different from a pilot point drill bit?
Drill bits with a twist-pattern are fit for drilling into plastics, wood, and even metals. Such drill bits are suitable for home repairs and domestic maintenance projects, as they are fruitful even while drilling into masonry.
Pilot point drill bits are perfect for woodwork projects and drilling into metal surfaces. Drill bits with a pilot point have a pointed tip, which prevents ‘walking’ and results in a cleaner finish.
James Fields is the founder of Gardener to Farmer. His passion for gardening goes back to his childhood days when he would visit his grandfather during the holidays and help him with the plants in the backyard. This has now translated to creating a dependable resource for gardening.