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Tools, Fasteners, Hardware & Material Handling

Drill Bit Selection for Metal vs Concrete vs Wood

Different substrates need different drill bits.

Green / Field Check1st yearBatch 2

What You Might Be Looking At

collection of drill bits, uncertainty which for current material

Apprentice words: drill bit type, what bit to use, metal bit, concrete bit

Trade terms: twist drill bit, masonry bit, carbide bit, step bit, unibit

Check First

Material being drilled?
Diameter needed?
Through-hole or tapped?

What Not To Do

Don't use wood bits on metal or concrete. Don't force dull bit. Don't use bit larger than fastener requires.

What can go wrong: Ruined bit, damaged material, unsafe hole, wrong fastener fit, extra repair work

Better Foreman Question

For this [material], what bit type and size? Step bit for sheet metal holes?

Open In Ask Foreman

Verify With

Reference type: manufacturer instructions

Source to verify: Drill bit manufacturer speed and feed charts

Safe wording: Bit selection depends on material, diameter, and drill type. Use appropriate PPE.

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