Wood Drill Bits

FAQs

What are wood drill bits used for?

Wood drill bits are used for creating clean holes in various types of wood, including softwood, hardwood, MDF and plywood.

What types of wood drill bits are available?

You’ll find flat drill bits, spade bits and auger bits, each offering different advantages depending on the material and depth of the hole required.

Can I use wood drill bits with any drill?

Most drill bits for wood are compatible with standard drills, combi drills and impact drivers. Check product details to make sure your tool is supported.

What’s the difference between auger bits and spade bits?

Auger drill bits are designed for deep, precise holes with excellent material removal, while spade bits are faster and better suited for rough drilling in soft wood or timber.

How do I prevent splintering when drilling wood?

Use a bit with a centre point and sharp cutting edges for better accuracy and precision and to reduce splintering, especially when drilling through panels or boards.

What sizes do wood drill bits come in?

Wood drill bits come in a variety of mm sizes to suit different job requirements. Use the site filters on the left to find the size you need.

How do I choose the right wood drill bit?

Consider the type of wood, the depth and diameter of the hole you need, and your tool’s compatibility. Flat bits are great for fast drilling, while augers are better for cleaner finishes.

Are wood drill bits suitable for use on metal or steel?

Wood drill bits are designed specifically for wood and timber, and using them on metal or steel increases the risk of damage to both the bit and the material.

For drilling metal, it's best to use HSS drill bits or specialised metal drill bits that are built to handle tougher materials.

Some wood drill bits can also be used on plastic and light composite materials, but they're not designed for masonry or metal.

Do you offer wood drill bit sets?

Yes, we stock a huge range of wood drill bit sets from trusted brands, available in a variety of lengths, types and sizes. These sets are an ideal choice if you want a versatile selection of wood bits for different tasks, and you can sort by product or brand using our online filter options.

How do I know if a wood drill bit is in stock?

Each item listing includes real-time stock information. Simply click on the view button or add the bit to your basket to check availability. You can also filter by in stock only to find what’s ready to ship immediately.

What affects the lifespan of a wood drill bit?

The lifespan of wood drill bits depends on the material being drilled, how frequently the bit is used, and whether it’s used correctly. Drilling into hard timber with excessive force or speed can cause wear more quickly. Keeping bits clean and sharp will extend their useful time.

Can I use HSS drill bits instead of wood drill bits?

HSS drill bits (high-speed steel) are versatile and can be used for drilling wood, metal, and plastic, but for the best results in timber, wood drill bits offer features like centre points and wide flutes designed for clean and accurate holes. Choosing the right types of drill bits helps avoid the risk of poor performance or splintering.