Drill Bit Size Guide: Sizes and Common Uses
A drill bit size guide that shows how to read the size marking on the shank, match the bit to the material, and pick a set that fits standard drill chucks.
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DEWALT Drill Bit Set 29 Pc Black and Gold9.5/10View on Amazon - 2
Amazon Basics Drill & Driver Multi Bit Set9.4/10View on Amazon
A drill bit size guide matches the bit to the hole and the material, and the size is read from the marking on the shank where the set states one. The bit should suit the material you are drilling, and the shank should fit the chuck on the drill you own. This guide shows how to read a bit, match it to the material, and pick a set that fits standard drill chucks.
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Below: how to read a bit size, what the sets in this guide offer, and a checklist to run before you drill.
DEWALT Drill Bit Set 29 Pc Black and Gold
A 29-piece high speed steel drill bit set with a 135-degree split point, black oxide coating and a 3-flats shank, for plastic, wood and metal.
Pros
- 135-degree split point reduces walking
- High speed steel for plastic, wood and metal
- 3-flats shank reduces spin-out in the chuck
- Size markings on the shank for quick identification
Cons
- No warranty term is stated
- No storage case is stated
- No masonry use is stated
- Only 29 pieces, fewer than the 100-piece set
Amazon Basics Drill & Driver Multi Bit Set
A 100-piece drill and driver multi-bit set in alloy steel for metal, wood, plastic and masonry, with a storage case.
Pros
- 100 pieces: 52 bits, 8 nut sockets, a magnetic bit holder and 4 hole saws
- Alloy steel for metal, wood, plastic and masonry
- Sturdy plastic case with designated storage
- Quenching treatment for wear resistance
Cons
- No warranty term is stated
- No size markings are stated
- No split point is stated
- Driver bits and nut sockets share the 100 pieces
Drill bit size guide: how to read a bit
Start with the marking on the shank. The DEWALT set states size markings on the shank for identifying sizes quickly, so the size is read from the bit itself, not from the box. Then match the bit to the material: the DEWALT set states high speed steel for plastic, wood and metal, and the Amazon Basics set states alloy steel for metal, wood, plastic and masonry. Last, check the shank: the DEWALT set states a straight shank that fits all standard drill chucks, corded or cordless, and a 3-flats shank that reduces spin-out in the chuck.
What the sets offer
The Amazon Basics set covers more materials and more pieces, while the DEWALT set states its shank and its tip in more detail. The table below lists what each set states.
| Set | Pieces | Material | For | Shank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics 100-Pc | 100 | Alloy steel | Metal, wood, plastic, masonry | Not stated |
| DEWALT 29-Pc HSS Set | 29 | High speed steel | Plastic, wood, metal | 3-flats, straight |
How to pick the right size: the checklist
- Read the size marking on the shank. The DEWALT set states size markings on the shank for identifying sizes quickly.
- Match the bit to the material. The DEWALT set states high speed steel for plastic, wood and metal; the Amazon Basics set states alloy steel for metal, wood, plastic and masonry.
- Check the shank fits the chuck. The DEWALT set states a straight shank that fits all standard drill chucks, corded or cordless.
- Use a 135-degree split point tip to reduce walking. The DEWALT set states a 135-degree split point tip design to help reduce walking.
- Keep the bits in the case so the sizes stay together. The Amazon Basics set states a sturdy plastic case with designated storage space.
The DEWALT set states a 3-flats shank to reduce spin-out in the chuck. If a bit spins, stop and re-seat it before you drill again.
Read the manual before first use, wear eye protection, keep the work area clear and ventilated, and stay within every stated rating. Read our Safety Disclaimer.
Drill bits vs driver bits
The Amazon Basics set is a drill and driver set, so it holds drill bits and driver bits in one case. The DEWALT set is a drill bit set, with no driver bits stated. A drill bit cuts the hole; a driver bit turns a screw. If you need both, the 100-piece set covers both in one case; if you need drill bits only, the 29-piece set keeps the choice simple.
If you are choosing the drill itself, see drill press vs cordless drill.
The gear for this guide
The size marking and the shank are the things to check before you drill. The DEWALT states its size markings and its 3-flats shank, while the Amazon Basics states its 100 pieces and its storage case.
FAQ: garage tools
How to choose a drill bit size?
The listings in this guide do not state a size range, so check the size marking on the shank where the set states one, and match the bit to the material. The DEWALT set states size markings on the shank for identifying sizes quickly. For the hole you need, check the listing for the sizes in the set before you buy.
How to read a drill bit size?
Read the size marking on the shank. The DEWALT set states size markings on the shank for identifying sizes quickly. The Amazon Basics set states no size markings, so check the listing for the sizes in that set.
Can a drill bit fit any drill?
The DEWALT set states a straight shank that fits all standard drill chucks, corded or cordless. Check that the shank fits the chuck on the drill you own before you buy.
What is a split point drill bit?
A split point tip is shaped to reduce walking when you start a hole. The DEWALT set states a 135-degree split point tip design to help reduce walking. The Amazon Basics set states no split point.
Do drill bit sets include a case?
The Amazon Basics set includes a sturdy plastic case with designated storage space. The DEWALT set states no storage case, so check the listing if a case matters to you.
Related: drill bit size R, drills and drivers and cordless tools.
