Variety box of drill bits used to drill holes in wood and concrete. Each drill bit will differ. Here is an intro to 22 different types of drill bits to illustrate the idea! https://www.theengineerspost.com/types-of-drill-bits.


Basic rules of thumb:

  • House shaped tips are for masonry (brick, block, stone, concrete)
  • Black lip and spur bits have a central point for accurate drilling in wood
  • High speed steel (HSS) are sometimes coated in titanium or cobalt for a hard cutting tip and longer life, specifically used in metal primarily. Use a cutting oil (3 in 1) to aid cutting
  • HSS bits, step drills, holesaws, spade bits are also used in plastic and wood
  • Before deciding on the correct bit for your task, make sure you pick the correct hand or power drill or driver. See the guide ‘Choosing power drills and drivers’ to help you with that: https://edinburghtoollibrary.org.uk/guides/#drill


    Not sure about the size? Start with a small drill bit size, and work your way up.
    When drilling masonry, sometimes masonry is soft, so start without the hammer action and use it in bursts afterwards if need be.
    Smaller drill bits on softer materials work with faster speeds (usually speed 2 on a combi drill). Larger bits require slower speeds (often 1 on a combi drill)