Common Wood Drill Bits at a Glance
Wood is forgiving compared with metal, so many bit styles work in it. The difference is mostly in the quality of the hole, the size, and how fast you can cut. Here is a quick summary.
| Bit | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Twist | General small holes | Can wander and splinter in fine work |
| Brad point | Clean, accurate holes | Common in furniture and cabinetry |
| Spade | Fast, large, rough holes | Rough walls, exit tear-out |
| Auger | Deep holes in timber | Pulls itself into the wood |
| Forstner | Flat-bottomed, clean holes | Often used in a drill press |
| Countersink | Flush screw heads | Cone-shaped recess |
| Installer | Holes for cable runs | Hole through the tip |
Twist Bits
Standard twist bits made for metal will drill wood, and they are what many people already have. Their pointed tip can skate on the surface, and they can tear fibres on exit. Backing the work with scrap wood helps.
Brad Point Bits
Brad point bits have a central spike and two outer spurs. The spike locates the hole centre and the spurs cut the wood fibres before the main edges remove the waste. This is why they are often described as the “wood twist bit” for accurate work. They are usually used for dowel holes, shelf pin holes and general furniture joinery.
Spade Bits
Also called paddle bits, spade bits have a flat blade and a centre point. They are inexpensive and cut large holes quickly, which is useful when drilling through studs or joists. The hole is rougher, and the bit can grab, so use a firm grip and a drill that can handle the torque.
Auger Bits
An auger bit has a threaded lead screw and deep flutes. The screw pulls the bit forward, and the flutes lift the chips out. Hand-brace augers and power augers with hex shanks both exist. They suit long holes in framing and posts. Because they pull themselves in, control the drill carefully, particularly with a powerful tool.
Self-Feeding Bits
Self-feeding bits are a related style with a circular cutter and a centre screw. They are designed for large, fast holes in softer wood and are typically used with a powerful drill. Check the manufacturer’s speed recommendation.
Forstner Bits
Forstner bits have a rim and a small centre point. They cut a flat-bottomed hole with a clean edge and can overlap holes or cut at an angle in some cases. They are a good choice for hinge cup holes, pockets and decorative recesses. They are used at relatively low speeds, and a drill press makes them easier to control. See types of drill presses.
Countersink and Counterbore Bits
A countersink cuts a cone so a flat-head screw sits flush. Combination bits drill the pilot hole and the countersink at the same time. Counterbore bits cut a cylindrical recess so a screw head and a plug can be set below the surface.
Installer and Bell Hanger Bits
These are long bits with a small hole through the tip. A wire can be attached so it pulls through as you withdraw the bit, which is handy for electricians and low-voltage installers working through walls.
Hole Saws for Wood
Large round holes, for example for a lock set or recessed light, are often cut with a hole saw. See types of hole saws for what the different styles cut best.
Tips for Drilling Wood
- Mark the centre with a small punch or awl to help the bit start.
- Clamp the work and place a backing board under the exit side.
- Withdraw the bit periodically on deep holes to clear chips.
- Use a depth stop or a wrap of tape to control depth.
- Keep bits sharp. Dull bits burn and tear. See how to sharpen drill bits by hand, although brad point and spade bits are shaped differently from twist bits and may need specific methods.
- Make sure the shank suits your chuck; see drill shank and chuck types.
FAQ
What are wood bits called?
There is no single name. Brad point (or lip and spur) bits are the closest to a standard wood bit, but spade, auger and Forstner bits are also wood bits.
Which bit is best for wood?
It depends on the hole. Brad point for accurate and clean small holes, Forstner for flat-bottomed holes, spade for fast rough holes and auger for deep holes.
Can I use masonry or metal bits on wood?
A metal twist bit works but tends to be less clean. A masonry bit is not designed for wood. For a wider look at the options, see types of drill bits.