Drill Bit Angles: Easy Guide to Point Angles

What Is a Drill Bit Point Angle?

The point angle is the angle formed at the tip of a drill bit, where the two cutting edges meet. This angle is crucial because it determines how the drill bit engages with the workpiece. Most standard drill bits have a 118° point angle, but specialized bits may feature 135°, 90°, or even spade-shaped angles depending on the application.

Key Factors Influenced by Point Angle

1. Penetration Speed – A sharper angle (e.g., 90°) cuts faster but may dull quicker.

2. Chip Evacuation – Wider angles (e.g., 135°) allow better chip clearance, reducing clogging.

3. Hole Quality – The right angle ensures cleaner, more precise holes.

4. Tool Stability – Some angles reduce the risk of bit walking, especially in harder materials.

Understanding these factors helps in selecting the appropriate drill bit angle for specific tasks.

Common Drill Bit Angles and Their Uses

Different drill bit angles are designed for specific applications. Below is a breakdown of the most common point angles and their uses.

1. 118° Point Angle – The Most Versatile Angle

The 118° point angle is the most common and versatile drill bit angle, found in general-purpose drill bits. It strikes a balance between cutting speed and durability.

Pros:

• Fast penetration in softer materials like wood and plastic.

• Good chip clearance for efficient drilling.

• Cost-effective and widely available.

Cons:

• Less effective in hard materials like stainless steel or cast iron.

• Prone to wear faster in abrasive materials.

Best Uses:

• Woodworking

• General DIY projects

• Drilling into softer metals (e.g., aluminum)

Comparison Table: 118° vs. 135° Drill Bits

2. 135° Point Angle – Ideal for Hard Materials

The 135° point angle is designed for drilling into harder materials, such as stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium. Its wider angle provides better durability and chip clearance.

Pros:

• Superior wear resistance in hard materials.

• Minimal tool dulling, extending drill bit lifespan.

• Reduced risk of bit breakage.

Cons:

• Slower cutting speed compared to 118° bits.

• Not ideal for soft materials, as it may cause excessive friction.

Best Uses:

• Metalworking

• Industrial drilling

• Hardened steel applications

Modern Trends: Carbide Drill Bits with 135° Angles

Carbide drill bits, particularly those with 135° angles, have gained popularity due to their hardness and heat resistance. Companies like DCarbide offer high-quality carbide drill bits that maintain sharpness even under extreme conditions.

3. 90° Point Angle – Specialized for Precise Cuts

The 90° point angle is less common but useful in specific applications, such as drilling pilot holes or creating clean, perpendicular cuts.

Pros:

• Excellent for precision work.

• Minimal wandering at the start of the hole.

• Suitable for countersinking applications.

Cons:

• Very slow cutting speed.

• Not suitable for deep drilling.

Best Uses:

• Pilot holes for screws

• Countersinking operations

• Woodworking where accuracy is critical

How to Choose the Right Drill Bit Angle

Selecting the correct drill bit angle depends on several factors, including material type, drilling depth, and desired hole quality. Below is a guide to help you make the right choice.

1. Material Type

• Soft Materials (Wood, Plastic, Aluminum): Use 118° drill bits for faster cutting.

• Medium Materials (Steel, Brass): A 135° angle provides better durability.

• Hard Materials (Stainless Steel, Titanium): Opt for 135° carbide drill bits for longevity.

2. Drilling Depth

• Shallow Holes: A 90° angle can be used for precision.

• Deep Holes: 118° or 135° angles ensure efficient chip removal.

3. Hole Quality Requirements

• Clean, Precise Holes: Use 90° or 118° angles.

• Industrial Applications: 135° angles minimize tool wear.

4. Budget Considerations

• Budget-Friendly: 118° high-speed steel (HSS) drill bits.

• High-Performance: 135° carbide drill bits (e.g., from DCarbide).

Comparing Drill Bit Materials: HSS vs. Carbide

The material of the drill bit also plays a significant role in performance. Two common options are high-speed steel (HSS) and carbide drill bits.

High-Speed Steel (HSS) Drill Bits

• Pros:

• Cost-effective.

• Good for general-purpose drilling.

• Cons:

• Prone to wear in hard materials.

• Lower heat resistance compared to carbide.

Carbide Drill Bits

• Pros:

• Extremely hard and durable.

• Ideal for hard materials like steel and composites.

• Longer lifespan under heavy use.

• Cons:

• More expensive than HSS.

• Brittle and can break if misused.

Product Comparison: DCARBIDE Carbide Drill Bits

DCarbide is a leading manufacturer of high-performance carbide drill bits, offering precision-engineered tools for industrial and professional use. Their 135° carbide drill bits are particularly popular for:

• Increased cutting speed in hard materials.

• Reduced wear due to superior hardness.

• Consistent hole quality across multiple applications.

For those seeking high-quality carbide drill bits, DCarbide provides a range of options suitable for various industries, from aerospace to construction.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Drill Bit Angle

Understanding drill bit angles is essential for achieving optimal drilling performance. Whether you opt for a 118° angle for general use or a 135° angle for hard materials, selecting the right drill bit can save time, improve hole quality, and extend tool life.

For high-performance drill bits, consider DCarbide’s range of carbide drill bits, which combine advanced point angles with durable materials for superior results. By staying informed about the latest trends and choosing the right tools, you can ensure precision, efficiency, and safety in all your drilling projects.