Drill bits break relatively infrequently when compared to their overall usage. The frequency of drill bit breakage depends on several factors, including the material being drilled, the quality and type of drill bit being used, and the skill and technique of the user.
Some drill bits, like those made from high-speed steel (HSS), are known for their durability and ability to withstand high-speed drilling. These types of drill bits are less likely to break and can withstand a wide range of drilling applications. On the other hand, cheaper and lower-quality drill bits made from softer materials may be more prone to breaking under intense drilling conditions.
The material being drilled also plays a significant role in the likelihood of drill bit breakage. For instance, drilling through softer materials such as wood or plastic is less likely to cause breakage compared to harder materials like metal or masonry. Harder materials place more stress on the drill bit, increasing the risk of it breaking or becoming dull.
Additionally, the skill and technique of the user influence the chances of drill bit breakage. Proper drilling technique, such as applying consistent pressure, using appropriate drilling speeds, and ensuring the drill bit remains perpendicular to the surface being drilled, can help minimize the risk of breakage.
In summary, while drill bits do break occasionally, especially when drilling challenging materials or using lower-quality bits, their breakage rate tends to be relatively low. Choosing the right type of drill bit, considering the material being drilled, and using proper drilling techniques are all important factors in reducing the occurrence of drill bit breakage.
Best Drill Bits of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Drill America - DWD29J-CO-PC 29 Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set in Round Case (1/16" - 1/2" X 64ths), DWDCO Series
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Set of 29 jobber length drill bits includes inch sizes 1/16" to 1/2" in 1/64" increments
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Cobalt steel provides extended tool life compared to high-speed steel drill bits when drilling hard materials
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Gold oxide finish lubricates the drill bit and provides wear resistance
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Self-centering 135-degree split point penetrates hard material without a pilot hole and produces small chips to reduce clogging
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Meets ANSI specifications
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece (DW1361)
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DEWALT drill bit set has connectable accessory storage system to optimize storage space
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Patented bit-bar design of the drill bits set allows easy removal of bits and customizable placement
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Clear lid of the Titanium Nitride Coated drill bit set allows you to easily see contents at glance
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Clip latch for secure closing
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Small Bulk Storage size fits inside the Small and Medium ToughCase plus (sold separately) - Ideal for organizing loose bits
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Includes: 1/16" x 2, 5/64" x 2, 3/32" x 2, 7/64" x 2, 1/8" x 2, 9/64" x 1, 5/32" x 1, 11/64" x 1, 3/16" x 1, 13/64" x 1, 7/32" x 1, 15/64" x 1, 1/4 x 1, 5/16" x 1, 3/8" x 1, 1/2" x 1
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Tapered web provides greater durability to reduce breaking.
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Drill Bit Set includes sizes from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch in a plastic tough case.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
TICONN 21 PCS Titanium Coated Drill Bit Set with Hex Shank, 135 Degree Tip High Speed Steel Drill Bits Kit with Storage Case for Steel, Aluminum, Copper, Soft Alloy Steel Size from 1/16" to 1/2"
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[PREMIUM QUALITY] TICONN drill bits are made from premium quality titanium coated high speed steel (HSS). These bits will stay sharper, last longer, and can drill at higher speeds than uncoated and oxide-coated drill bits. Double U shape flutes design clear chips effectively
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[WIDE APPLICATION] 135° point angle drill bits keep centered without a pilot hole. These jobber self-centering drill bits have the rigidity and length for most applications of corded or cordless hand drills and drill presses. Ideal for drilling mild steel, aluminum, copper, soft alloy steel, wood, and plastic
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[SIZE LIST] 16 different sizes including 1/8", 7/64", 3/32'', 5/64", and 1/16" two pieces for each size. And 9/64", 5/32", 11/64", 3/16", 13/64'', 7/32", 15/64", 1/4", 5/16'', 3/8'' and 1/2'', one piece for each size
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[EXTRA CENTER PUNCH] A rugged case keeps all drill bits well organized. Molded size on the case lid will help you to identify the bits you need with less effort. Included center punch will help you to mark and drill more precisely.
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[TICONN BRAND QUALITY COMMITMENT] We stand behind the quality of our products. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us. We provide 30-day money back and 12 months warranty. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for risk-free shopping!
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
DEWALT Titanium Nitride Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece (DW1342)
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Speed Tip Reduces Walking
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Ideal for drilling in metal, wood, and plastics
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No spin shanks
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Includes tough case container to keep bits organized
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Titanium Nitride Coating for Longer Life
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Bit case may differ from what is shown
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
amoolo Hex Shank Drill Bit Set (13Pcs Set+3 Pcs Free), Premium 4341 HSS Titanium Impact Hex Drill Bits for Wood, Steel, Metal, Plastic, Quick Change Design (1/16-1/4)
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
TICONN 99PCS Titanium Coated Drill Bit Set, 135 Degree Tip HSS Bits Kit with Storage Case for Aluminum, Copper, Soft Alloy Steel, Wood, Plastic Size from 1/16" to 3/8"
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[PREMIUM QUALITY] TICONN drill bits are made from premium quality titanium coated high speed steel (HSS). These bits will stay sharper, last longer, and can drill at higher speeds than uncoated and oxide-coated drill bits. Double U shape flutes design clear chips effectively
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[WIDE APPLICATION] 135° point angle drill bits keep centered without a pilot hole. These jobber self-centering drill bits have the rigidity and length for most applications of corded or cordless hand drills and drill presses. Ideal for drilling mild steel, aluminum, copper, soft alloy steel, wood, and plastic
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[SIZE LIST] 14 different sizes including 16PCS 1/16", 16PCS 5/64", 15PCS 3/32", 10PCS 7/64", 10PCS 1/8", 8PCS 9/64", 8PCS 5/32", 3PCS 11/64", 3PCS 3/16", 2PCS 13/64", 2PCS 7/32", 2PCS 1/4", 2PCS 5/16", and 2PCS 3/8"
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[EXTRA CENTER PUNCH] A rugged case keeps all drill bits well organized. Molded size on the case lid will help you to identify the bits you need with less effort. Included center punch will help you to mark and drill more precisely.
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[TICONN BRAND QUALITY COMMITMENT] We stand behind the quality of our products. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us. We provide 30-day money back and lifetime warranty. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for risk-free shopping!
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set- 15Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Length for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Indexed Storage Case, 1/16"-3/8"
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HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL: 5% Cobalt High Speed Steel M35 provide extended tool life compared to ordinary drill bits. Durable and strong
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TWIST DESIGN & PERFORMANCE: PRECISE 135°SPLIT POINT, gold oxide finish and round straight shanks. Prevent walking, clear chips and particles faster.Produced by precision fully ground which ensures chips move smoothly.
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PROFESSIONAL & WIDELY USE: M35 Cobalt HSS is more suitable for hardened material. Particularly successful in cutting through hard metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, high temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics and woods, and also can be used for softer materials.
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SIZE INCLUDED: 15pcs jobber length drill bit set with plastic storage case including sizes:1/16" 2pc,5/64" 1pc ,3/32" 2pc,7/64" 1pc,1/8" 2pc ,9/64" 1pc, 5/32" 1pc, 3/16" 1pc, 7/32" 1pc, 1/4" 1pc, 5/16" 1pc, 3/8" 1pc.
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100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase for any reason whatsoever simply please feel free to contact us.
What is the lifespan of a drill bit?
The lifespan of a drill bit can vary depending on various factors such as the quality of the bit, the material being drilled, the drilling technique used, and the frequency of use. On average, a high-quality drill bit used for general drilling purposes may last anywhere from several months to a few years. However, more specialized drill bits designed for specific materials or applications may have a shorter lifespan. Furthermore, if the drill bit is consistently used incorrectly or in abrasive conditions, it may wear out much faster. Therefore, it is important to properly maintain and replace drill bits as needed to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
What is the importance of using the correct drill bit for the material to prevent breakage?
Using the correct drill bit for the material is crucial for several reasons:
- Enhanced performance: Different materials require different types of drill bits. The correct drill bit ensures optimal performance and efficiency. For example, using a wood drill bit on metal will take longer to drill and may result in a poor-quality hole.
- Protection against breakage: Each drill bit is designed to handle specific materials. Using the wrong drill bit can put excessive pressure on the bit, leading to breakage. For example, using a drill bit meant for softer materials on a hard surface like concrete may cause it to snap.
- Accurate and clean holes: The right drill bit will create holes that are the perfect size and shape for the intended purpose. Using the wrong bit can result in an irregular or messy hole, affecting the overall quality of the project.
- Safety: When the wrong drill bit is used, it can cause the drill to slip or wander, leading to accidents and injuries. A correct drill bit ensures better control and stability during drilling, minimizing the risk of accidents.
- Longevity of the drill bit: Using the correct drill bit for the material increases its lifespan. Improper use can cause excessive wear and tear on the drill bit, reducing its durability and longevity.
Overall, using the correct drill bit for the material is crucial to ensure efficient drilling, accurate holes, safety, and durability of the drill bit.
How often do professionals typically experience drill bit breakage?
The frequency of drill bit breakage among professionals can vary depending on several factors such as the type of material being drilled, the quality of the drill bit, the drilling technique, and the experience and skill level of the professional. However, drill bit breakage is generally not a very common occurrence for professionals who use quality drill bits and follow proper drilling techniques.
With careful use, professionals may experience drill bit breakage very infrequently, possibly once in several weeks or months. However, in certain industries or applications where the drilling conditions are more demanding or the material being drilled is harder and more prone to causing damage to the drill bit, professionals may experience breakage more frequently. In such cases, drill bits may need replacement or resharpening more often to maintain efficiency and effectiveness.
