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Drill Bit Guide
This guide is here to give you information on the different types of bits you may come across and the uses for them. The four basic woodworking bits are the twist bit, the brad-point bit, the spade bit, and the forstner bit. I plan to review these first and add some others later on. Twist Bit
The twist bit is the most common type of bit and was made to cut through both metal and wood. They come in all different sizes from 1/16" to 1/2". A set of these bits is relatively inexpensive and are perfect for general work.It is important to learn how to sharpen these bits however because they tend to dull easily. They never really give an extremely clean entry and exit cut and as they dull out it only gets worse. Another problem with twist drill bits is the fact that they like to wander when you’re starting a hole. When accurate placement of a hole is required and all I have handy is a twist bit I use a scratch awl to help stop the wandering. First I mark an “X” with a pencil at the center of the spot I want the hole and then I use my scratch awl to place a small divot right on the spot. Once I put the twist bits point in the divot it usually keeps it from wandering. Brad-Point Bits
Brad-point drill bits look almost the same as a twist bit except for two key things. Brad-point bits have a point and two spurs at the tip of them. The point is exactly where the center of the hole is and keeps the bit from wandering. The two spurs are along the edge and are used to cut along the edge of the hole and give it a cleaner cut than even the sharpest twist bit.Brad-point bits were made specifically for woodworking and come in sizes from 1/4" to 1/2". Another major difference between these drill bits and regular twist bits is the price. While good set of twist bits is relatively inexpensive, a good set of brad-points can be somewhat pricey. Spade Bits
The spade bit is a drill bit that is named after its shape. They have a long point and a flat bottom so they can easily find a center and cut a clean hole with a flat bottom. Be aware though that the point is long and will leave a small cone shaped hole at the bottom.You can get a decent spade bit set with sizes ranging from 1/4" to 1 1/2" for inexpensive. Look for a set that also include spurs on the edge for a cleaner cut, not all will have this. Forstner Bits
Forstner bits are the most accurate, clean, and unique drill bit of the four. The three other bits are all guided by there center but the Forstner bit uses its edges to guide it. This quality will allow to drill multiple overlapping holes easily (the other bits will wander, using there center, and find the hole that was made previously).These bits will also give you the flattest bottom should you choose to stop the bit before going completely through. These bits range in sizes from 1/4" to 1 1/2", but are expensive and should only be used when necessary. There is a bit that is a variation of the Forstner bit called the multispur bit. It gives nearly as flat a bottom but heats up less quickly than the Forstner bit. CompareCompare prices and specs at these online stores.Rockler.com (For a free catalog from Rockler.com click here) Hechinger.com Your PicksI can only review and give a my suggestion based on what I think the common home workshop needs are. Here is your chance to disagree with me and share your picks according to your own needs Return from Drill Bit Guide to Drill Press ReviewReturn from Drill Bit Guide to Home
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