Auger Drill Bits

About Auger Drill Bits

Auger drill bits are specialised wood-boring tools featuring a distinctive helical screw thread design that efficiently removes waste material whilst drilling clean, precise holes in timber. The characteristic lead screw at the tip pulls the bit into the wood with minimal pressure, reducing user fatigue and delivering exceptional accuracy in deep boring operations where standard twist bits would struggle. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks an extensive range from leading manufacturers including Irwin, Faithfull, Draper, Bahco, Bosch Professional, DeWalt, Makita and Milwaukee.

Our selection encompasses individual bits in various diameters from 6mm to 32mm, comprehensive multi-piece sets, and specialist options including stubby augers for confined spaces, long combination augers for deep penetration through joists and beams, and SDS-compatible versions for heavy-duty applications. Modern designs feature hexagonal shanks for secure grip in power drills, tri-point or quad-flute cutting edges for faster material removal, and hardened steel construction for extended service life on professional job sites.

Applications

Auger drill bits are essential tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Creating precise holes for dowels, bolts and structural fixings in timber frames and furniture construction
• Electricians: Drilling cable runs through joists, studs and timber framework on residential and commercial installations
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Boring holes for pipe runs through wooden structures and floor joists
• Fencing Contractors: Installing post fixings and creating holes for fence construction projects
• Timber Frame Builders: Large-diameter boring for structural connections and services routing
• Shopfitters and Cabinet Makers: Precision drilling for hinges, locks and decorative woodworking
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects, decking installation and general woodworking tasks

Choosing The Right Auger Drill Bits

Shank Type: Hex shanks (6.35mm) suit modern cordless drills and impact drivers, whilst SDS augers work with rotary hammers. Consider your existing drilling equipment when selecting bits from the MyToolShed.co.uk range.

Bit Length: Standard auger bits typically measure 200-300mm, suitable for most applications. Long augers (up to 600mm) are essential for drilling through multiple joists, whilst stubby versions offer better manoeuvrability in tight spaces.

Diameter Range: For comprehensive versatility, multi-piece sets from brands like Faithfull, Bahco and Irwin offer excellent value, typically containing 6-8 commonly used sizes from 6mm to 25mm. Individual bits allow you to expand your collection as specific project requirements demand.

Flute Configuration: Three-flute and four-flute designs offer faster material removal and reduced clogging compared to traditional two-flute augers, particularly beneficial when drilling resinous softwoods or dense hardwoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use auger drill bits in a cordless drill?

Yes, hex-shank auger bits work perfectly in cordless drills. For bits up to 16mm diameter, a quality 18V drill from DeWalt, Makita or Milwaukee will suffice. Larger-diameter bits (20mm+) require more powerful 18V models with brushless motor technology to prevent motor strain.

What's the difference between an auger bit and a spade bit?

Auger bits feature a lead screw and helical flutes that pull the bit into timber whilst efficiently removing waste, making them ideal for deep, clean holes. Spade bits are flat with paddle-shaped cutting edges, better suited for shallow holes and faster drilling in softer materials, though they produce rougher holes.

What size auger bit set should I buy for general carpentry?

A 6-piece or 8-piece combination auger set covering diameters from 6mm to 20mm provides excellent versatility for most carpentry, electrical and plumbing applications, offering the commonly needed sizes for pilot holes, cable routes and standard pipe work.