“How to Choose the Right Step Drill Bit for Your Job”

A Step Drill Bit is a very popular tool among technicians and DIY users, especially for thin sheet metal work. It is easy to use, allows drilling multiple hole sizes with a single bit, and delivers clean, precise results.

How to Choose the Right Drill Bit

Choosing the correct drill bit is a crucial step. It helps reduce effort, makes drilling easier, extends the bits lifespan, and lowers the risk of wear or breakage during use. The three main factors to consider are diameter, length, and shank type.

1) Choosing by Diameter
Diameter is the first thing to consider, especially for wall plugs (anchors) or bolts.
Choose a drill bit matching the plug size

• 6 mm plug 6 mm drill bit
• 8 mm plug 8 mm drill bit

If the bit is too small, the plug wont fit or may break. If it is too large, the plug will be loose and wont hold securely.
For thin metal, stainless steel, plastic, or hole enlargement, choose a step drill bit based on the required size range, such as 412 mm or 620 mm.
Step drill bits are ideal for multiple hole sizes but not suitable for concrete.

2) Choosing by Length

General guidelines:

• Thick walls or deep concrete use a longer drill bit
• Check the flute length to ensure it can clear debris effectively
• Short flutes cause debris buildup, leading to heat and faster wear

Typical recommendations:

• General household anchor installation 100160 mm
• Through-wall drilling or pipe routing 200400 mm

3) Choosing by Shank Type

Round Shank

• Suitable for standard electric drills or cordless drills with 3-jaw chucks
• Ideal for general household use
• SDS / SDS-Plus Shank
• Designed for rotary hammers
• Provides stronger impact and more secure locking
• Best for hard concrete and thick masonry

Must-Have Step Drill Bits You Can Rely On

1) EMTOP Step Drill Bit 1020 mm (Model ESDL102033)

• Covers a wide drilling range with one bit
• Step design allows smooth, continuous drilling
• Durable material suitable for metal and aluminum
• High accuracy with clean, vibration-free holes

2) Bosch HSS Step Drill Bit, 3-Flat Shank

• Special stepped cutting edges for multiple hole sizes
• 3-flat shank prevents slipping and improves torque transfer
• Ideal for thin steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
• Works well with standard electric and cordless drills

3) MARATHON M316-0030 Step Drill Bit Set (3 pcs)

• Sizes included: 412 mm, 420 mm, 432 mm
• Made from HSS with TiN coating
• Cost-effective and easy to use
• Suitable for thin metal, wood, plastic, aluminum, workshops, and factories

4) Titanium Step Drill Bit 422 mm (Model DT90246-QZ)

• Titanium coating increases wear and heat resistance
• Dual-flute design improves chip removal and durability
• Suitable for metal, plastic, wood, and thin wall materials

5) MAKITA Step Drill Bit 432 mm, Titanium Coated

• Wide drilling range in a single bit
• HSS with titanium coating reduces friction and heat
• Straight / three-flat shank for secure grip
• Ideal for thin metal sheets, aluminum, plastic, and installation work