Cordless drills typically do not come with drill bits. While some starter kits might include a small selection of basic bits, most bare-tool or standard cordless drill purchases do not include them. You will likely need to buy drill bits separately to use your new drill effectively.
So, you’ve just gotten your hands on a shiny new cordless drill, ready to tackle that weekend project or finally hang those shelves. That’s exciting! But as you unpack it, a common question pops up: “Do cordless drills come with drill bits?” It’s a very understandable query, especially for those new to DIY or power tools. Many people assume that a tool designed for drilling will automatically come with the necessary accessories to start drilling. While it would be convenient, the reality is often a little different. Don’t worry, though! This guide will clear up the confusion and help you understand what to expect and how to get the right bits for your new drill. We’ll walk through the common scenarios and give you the best advice on choosing and buying drill bits.
Do Cordless Drills Come with Drill Bits? The Straight Answer
The short and simple answer is: usually not.
Most manufacturers sell cordless drills in a few different configurations:
Bare Tool: This is just the drill itself. No battery, no charger, and definitely no drill bits. This option is for people who already own compatible batteries and chargers from the same brand.
Kit (with battery and charger): This is the most common way to buy a cordless drill if you’re starting from scratch. It includes the drill, at least one battery, and a charger. However, it still often does not include drill bits.
Specialty Kits or Combos: Sometimes, you’ll find kits that are bundled with other tools (like an impact driver) or are specifically marketed as “starter kits” or “project kits.” These might include a small assortment of basic drill bits and screwdriver bits.
Why don’t they always come with bits?
There are a few reasons for this:
1. User Preference: Drill bits are highly specific to the type of material you’re drilling into (wood, metal, masonry) and the size of the hole you need. Users often have their own preferred brands or specific sizes they use most often.
2. Cost: Including a comprehensive set of drill bits would significantly increase the price of the drill kit. Manufacturers prefer to let users buy the bits they actually need.
3. Focus on the Tool: The primary product being sold is the drill itself. Accessories are often treated as separate purchases to keep the core product’s price competitive.
What to Expect When You Buy a Cordless Drill
When you purchase a cordless drill, carefully check the product description and what’s included in the box. This information is usually clearly listed on the packaging, the retailer’s website, or the manufacturer’s site.
Look for these terms:
“Bare Tool”: No battery, charger, or accessories.
“Kit” or “Tool Kit”: Includes the drill, battery, and charger. May or may not include a small bit set.
“Combo Kit”: Usually includes multiple tools (e.g., drill and impact driver) and accessories. Again, check the specifics for bit inclusion.
“Starter Kit” or “Project Kit”: These are the most likely to include a basic set of bits.
Example Scenario:
Let’s say you buy a popular model like the DeWalt DCD771C2. This is a common “kit” that includes the drill, a charger, and two batteries. However, if you look at the product details, you’ll see it does not include drill bits. You’ll need to purchase those separately.
On the other hand, a DeWalt “Drill/Driver with 100-Piece Accessory Set” might include a drill, batteries, charger, and a variety of drill bits, driver bits, and other accessories. The key is to read the specifics.
Why You Need the Right Drill Bits
Using the correct drill bits is crucial for several reasons:
Efficiency: The right bit cuts through material smoothly and quickly.
Cleanliness: Proper bits create cleaner holes with less tear-out or burring.
Tool Longevity: Using the wrong bit or forcing a bit can strain your drill’s motor and gearbox.
Safety: Dull or incorrect bits can bind, causing the drill to twist unexpectedly, which can lead to injury.
Types of Drill Bits You’ll Need
Since most drills don’t come with bits, you’ll need to buy them. The type of bit you need depends entirely on what you plan to do. Here are the most common types:
1. Twist Drill Bits
What they are: These are the most common type of drill bit, characterized by their spiral flutes.
Best for: Drilling holes in wood, metal, and plastics.
Materials: Typically made of High-Speed Steel (HSS). HSS bits are versatile and can handle most common materials. For harder metals, you might need Cobalt or Titanium-coated HSS bits.
Key Features:
Shank: The part that goes into the drill chuck. Most common are round shanks, but some larger bits have hex shanks for better grip.
Flutes: The spiral grooves that clear away material.
Point: The tip of the bit. Common points include 118° (general purpose) and 135° (better for harder metals).
When to buy: You’ll need these for general-purpose drilling, like making pilot holes for screws or creating holes for mounting hardware.
2. Spade Bits (or Paddle Bits)
What they are: Flat, paddle-shaped bits with a pointed tip.
Best for: Drilling larger diameter holes (typically 1/4 inch up to 1 1/2 inches or more) quickly in wood.
Materials: Usually made of hardened steel.
Key Features:
Pointed Tip: Helps to center the bit and prevent “walking.”
Cutting Spurs: Small protrusions on the edges that score the wood, creating a cleaner cut.
When to buy: Ideal for running wires, installing door hardware, or creating larger openings in lumber.
3. Forstner Bits
What they are: These bits create perfectly flat-bottomed holes. They have a pointed center spur and sharp outer cutting edges.
Best for: Precise, clean, flat-bottomed holes in wood. Excellent for drilling hinge mortises or pocket holes for joinery.
Materials: Hardened steel.
Key Features:
Center Spur: Guides the bit.
Cylindrical Rim: The outer cutting edge creates the hole’s diameter.
Offset Cutting Edges: These shear the wood fibers for a clean cut.
When to buy: When you need a clean, precise hole with a flat bottom, unlike the conical shape left by twist bits.
4. Masonry Bits
What they are: Specifically designed for drilling into hard materials like brick, concrete, and stone. They have a carbide tip that is brazed onto the steel shank.
Best for: Drilling into masonry.
Materials: Steel shank with a carbide cutting tip.
Key Features:
Carbide Tip: Extremely hard and durable for abrasive materials.
Wide Flutes: Designed to efficiently remove dust and debris from the hole.
When to buy: Essential if you need to mount anything to a brick wall or concrete foundation. Important: You generally need a hammer drill (or a drill with a hammer function) for best results with masonry bits, though they can be used in a standard drill for softer materials like mortar.
5. Hole Saws
What they are: Cylindrical saw blades with teeth around the edge, attached to an arbor (a shaft with a pilot drill bit).
Best for: Cutting very large diameter holes (1 inch and up) in wood, plastic, thin metal, and drywall.
Materials: Steel.
Key Features:
Cylindrical Blade: Cuts a clean, round plug of material.
Pilot Bit: Centers the hole saw and guides it.
When to buy: For cutting openings for doorknobs, plumbing, electrical boxes, or large ventilation holes.
Buying Your First Set of Drill Bits
If you’re just starting, you don’t need a massive, expensive set. A good quality starter set will cover most basic needs.
What to look for in a starter set:
Variety of Sizes: A set that includes common fractional inch sizes (e.g., 1/16″, 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 7/32″, 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″) for wood and metal.
Material: HSS bits are a good starting point. Look for Titanium or Cobalt coatings if you anticipate drilling into harder metals frequently.
Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands known for quality tools and accessories. Brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch, Makita, Irwin, and Fiskars generally offer good value and durability.
Case: A sturdy case keeps your bits organized and protected.
Where to buy drill bits:
Hardware Stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, etc. You can often see and feel the quality before buying.
Online Retailers: Amazon, ToolPros, Acme Tools, etc. Offer a wider selection and competitive pricing, but you can’t physically inspect them.
Tool Specialty Shops: If you have a local shop that specializes in tools, they often have knowledgeable staff who can guide you.
How to Use Drill Bits Safely and Effectively
Once you have your drill and bits, here’s how to use them properly:
1. Select the Right Bit: As discussed, match the bit type and size to your material and the desired hole.
2. Insert the Bit Correctly:
Open the drill chuck by twisting the chuck collar (or pressing a button on keyless chucks).
Insert the shank of the drill bit as far as it will go.
Tighten the chuck firmly. If you have a keyed chuck, use the chuck key to tighten it at three points around the chuck collar for a secure grip. For keyless chucks, tighten by hand as much as possible. A bit that slips in the chuck can damage the bit and the chuck, and is dangerous.
3. Set the Drill:
Speed: For most drilling, start with a lower speed setting. High speeds can overheat bits and melt plastics. Cordless drills often have variable speed triggers for fine control.
Mode (if applicable): Ensure your drill is set to “Drill” mode, not “Hammer Drill” or “Screwdriver” mode (unless you’re using a masonry bit in a hammer drill).
4. Mark Your Hole: Use a pencil or a center punch (for metal or hard surfaces) to mark the exact spot where you want to drill. A center punch creates a small indentation that helps the drill bit start in the correct place and prevents it from “walking.”
5. Start Slowly: Begin drilling at a slow speed to create a small pilot dimple. This further helps to center the bit.
6. Apply Steady Pressure: Once the bit is engaged, apply steady, even pressure. Let the drill bit do the work; don’t force it.
7. Keep the Drill Straight: Hold the drill perpendicular to the surface for a straight hole.
8. Clear Debris: For deeper holes, periodically pull the drill bit partially out of the hole while it’s still spinning slowly. This helps clear out dust and debris, preventing the bit from overheating and binding.
9. Cooling: If drilling into metal, use cutting fluid or oil to keep the bit cool and lubricated. This significantly extends the life of the bit and makes drilling easier.
10. Backing Material: When drilling through softer materials like wood, place a scrap piece of wood underneath your workpiece. This prevents tear-out on the backside as the drill bit exits the material.
11. Withdraw the Bit: Once you’ve drilled through, continue spinning the bit slowly as you pull it out of the hole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using the wrong bit for the material: Trying to drill concrete with a wood bit will destroy the bit and likely won’t make much progress.
Using dull bits: Dull bits require more force, generate more heat, and produce rougher holes.
Overheating the bit: Especially important when drilling metal. Use lubricant and take breaks.
Drilling without a pilot hole: For larger holes or harder materials, a pilot hole makes starting easier and more accurate.
Not securing the bit: A loose bit can cause damage and is a safety hazard.
Forcing the drill: Let the tool and bit do the work. Forcing can break bits, damage the drill, or cause injury.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do most cordless drills come with any accessories at all?
A: Yes, most cordless drills sold as “kits” will come with at least one battery and a charger. Some “starter kits” or “project kits” might include a small assortment of basic drill bits and driver bits, but this is not standard for all models.
Q2: What are the most essential drill bits for a beginner?
A: For general DIY and home use, a good set of High-Speed Steel (HSS) twist drill bits in common sizes (e.g., 1/16″ to 3/8″) is essential for drilling wood, metal, and plastic. A few spade bits for larger holes in wood are also very useful.
Q3: Can I use any drill bit with my cordless drill?
A: You can use most standard drill bits, but ensure the shank (the part that goes into the chuck) matches your drill’s chuck type (usually round or hex). Also, be mindful of the drill’s power and speed capabilities. Extremely large bits or specialized bits might require more powerful drills or specific drill modes.
Q4: How do I know what size drill bit I need?
A: The size of the drill bit needed depends on the screw you’re using or the size of the hole required. For pilot holes for screws, you’ll want a bit slightly smaller than the screw’s shank diameter. For clearance holes, you’ll want a bit slightly larger than the screw’s shank. Many project plans will specify the required drill bit size.
Q5: Is it worth buying a large drill bit set?
A: If you’re a beginner and only do occasional DIY projects, a smaller, high-quality set is usually sufficient. If you’re a serious DIYer or a professional who tackles a wide variety of projects, a larger set with more specialized bits (like Forstner bits, masonry bits, or a wide range of twist bits) can be a worthwhile investment.
Q6: What’s the difference between a drill bit and a driver bit?
A: A drill bit is designed to cut material and create a hole. A driver bit (like a Phillips head or Torx bit) is designed to turn screws. While some kits include both, they are distinct tools for different purposes.
Q7: My drill came with a few bits. Are they good quality?
A: The bits included in basic drill kits are often considered “bonus” items and may not be of the highest quality. They’re usually sufficient for light tasks but may wear out quickly with frequent use or when drilling harder materials. For best results and longevity, investing in separate, higher-quality bits is often recommended.
Conclusion: Be Prepared to Buy Bits Separately
In summary, while the excitement of a new cordless drill is undeniable, it’s important to manage expectations regarding included accessories. Most cordless drills do not come with drill bits. You’ll almost certainly need to purchase these separately. By understanding the different types of bits available and choosing quality ones suited to your projects, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your new tool and achieve professional-looking results. Happy drilling!
