Which drill bit for wood, metal, tile or masonry?

Match the bit to the material, then slow down as the material gets harder.

General-purpose twist bits in high-speed steel will drill wood, plastic and mild steel. For clean holes in timber, a brad-point bit has a small spur in the center that stops it wandering and leaves a tidy edge. For large holes in wood, a spade bit or hole saw is faster and costs less than a big twist bit.

Brick, block and concrete need a masonry bit, which has a wider carbide tip and is designed to be used with a hammer action. Tile and glass need a spear-point or diamond bit, no hammer action at all, and usually water to keep the tip cool.

Speed matters more than pressure. Harder materials want a slower speed and steady, moderate pressure. If the bit is squealing, glazing or turning blue, it is going too fast and the edge is being destroyed. Back off, let it cool, and consider a pilot hole. Check the shank too: many driver-style tools take only hex shanks, while a keyless chuck will accept round.

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