Have you ever jolted awake in the middle of the night wondering what a hex shank drill bit is? Perhaps someone has suggested that you use one for your upcoming DIY projects but you have not a clue?
Well, you came to the right place to learn all things hex shank drill bits.
The elusive hex shank drill bits can leave even the most well-versed DIY-er in a cold sweat—especially if you're unsure how to choose the right type of drill bit for the job. It’s like suddenly you lost all your trade secrets at once.
Never mind, now you’re here to learn, so next time you can razzle-dazzle even the most hardened drill expert when hex shank drill bits pop up in the conversation. Which we’re sure happens every day, right?
What Is A Hex Shank Drill Bit?
Ok, so what are those little suckers? A hex shank drill bit is a drill bit typically used for cutting. They can be used with other drill bits, drill press, or other rotating instruments.
Rather unsuspecting, a hex shank drill bit features a shank that has flat sides, rather than the round profile we usually see on other shanks. Hmmm, maybe let’s take a step back. If you aren’t sure what a shank is on a drill bit, it is the part of your drill bit that is held by the drill or tool you are using. And to explain what a drill is… Just kidding.
So, now you’re eager to ask… why do hex shank drill bits have a flat side? The answer will blow your mind… It is because this design is far less likely to slip when you are using a drill or drill press.
Yep, you should be able to use your tool with ease and not worry about slipping when you have a hex shank drill bit in your drill.
What Are The Advantages Of Using A Hex Shank Drill Bit?
You might be itching to know what the advantages are of using the hex shank drill bit, and you will be pleased to know that there are a few.
They Can Be Cheaper
First up, if you love a bargain, then a hex shank drill bit is a good option for you. It is typically made from bar stock, which already has flat sides.
This means there is less machine use and time taken to make the drill bit, making them cheaper to manufacture and sell. Lo and behold, lower price for you.
Little side info, if an already flat metal isn’t used to create the drill bit, a round stock can also be used. The shank will be flattened on several sides in this case to create its hex shape to make it easy to drill into a hole.
Anyhow, no matter how the drill bit is made, we bet you can find one out there for a price that suits your budget.
The Shape Is Convenient
To follow along on the shape, as you might have guessed by the name, the drill bit features six sides. Hex = six. Are you following?
Bonus feature, not only can you use your drill bit in most drills and drill presses, but you can use them with certain types of screwdrivers too to create holes. Just pop your hex shank drill bit onto a screwdriver and complete the task by hand. This is what we like to call easy DIY.
It Has A Higher Torque Application
Wait, there’s more. Hex shank drill bits tend to have higher torque applications than other drill bits too. They can be turned in a drill or drill press with more force thanks to the lower risk of slipping that we mentioned earlier, plus you can use them at a different angle and still easily drill into a hole or holes, meaning that your hex bits can turn faster, remove materials easily, and cut faster too.
This makes them especially useful if you're using a quick-release drill chuck designed for faster bit changes.
Can I Use A Hex Shank Drill Bit With My Drill?
Of course, all fairytales have a caveat. Our hex friend is no exception. Unfortunately, they cannot be used with every drill. If your drill features a collet, then say goodbye to your hex dreams with your drill or drill press.
A collet makes a point of holding the bit in place, and thanks to its design, only works with round shanks. Bummer.
However, you can check easily to see if your drill has a collet or not, either by reading the manual, contacting the manufacturer, or… simply, by looking at the drill.
(For the less initiated though, where the drill bit is placed in the drill, if you can see a small round slot where you would usually place the drill bit, then that is your collet.)
You might find it easier to take a hex shank drill bit and see if it can be fitted into your drill. If it can’t, then sadly, the hex shank drill bit is not for you.
Or if you’re about to purchase a new drill or press, be sure to check the product information or to contact the manufacturer directly to find out if it can work with a hex shank drill bit or not.
When Should I Use A Hex Shanks Drill Bit?
Providing you have a drill or press that supports them, you can use a hex shanks drill bit to cut through any materials. As they offer the most contact with the surface, you won’t need to worry about it slipping when you are cutting. As an extra peace of mind, no slip - no injury while you work.
Especially when you're working on tougher materials like drilling through metal.
On that note, you will still need to follow all other safety procedures and wear protective equipment where necessary, especially when working with high speed steel or hole saws.
Final Thoughts
And now you know. A hex shank drill bit is a hexagonal-shaped drill bit that is designed for cutting materials - without slipping. It works in compatible drills and even some screwdrivers, if you fancy some manual labour. And not only is it often cheaper, but can save you time thanks to its higher torque and convenient use.
If you don’t have a hex shank drill bit in your tool box already, take this as your sign to grab some now.