How to Choose Drill Bits for a Cordless Drill

Don't get stuck with the wrong cordless drill bit.

Cordless drills have some specific requirements for the types of drill bits that are compatible. Selecting the right type of drill bit for your cordless drill will ensure that you drill safely and accurately.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Analyze the type of material you will drill into, such as plastic, metal or wood. Drill bits are specific for each type of material. Drill bits are also sold as multiuse bits. A general purpose bit will wear out faster if used for drilling in metal, but should be fine for wood or plastic. A metal bit will typically cost more but last longer when being used on a metal surface.

2. Ensure that the drill bit you're selecting is compatible with the chuck size of your cordless drill. While some cordless drills now half half-inch chucks, many still have 3/8-inch chucks.

3. Select a drill bit that does not require high speeds for optimal use. Cordless drills run more slowly than corded drills.

References

• "The Homeowners Ultimate Tool Guide: Choosing the Right Tool for Every Home Improvement Job"; Sandor Nagyszalanczy; 2003