When tackling projects that require drilling holes in thin materials like sheet metal, plastics, or soft timber, choosing the right drill bit can make all the difference. In this blog, we’re comparing two popular types: Step Drills and Cone Drills.
🔍 Step Drills
What they are:
Step drills feature a tiered or “graduated” design that lets you drill multiple hole sizes with a single bit. Each “step” is a different diameter, progressively larger.
When to use them:
- Ideal for drilling through thin sheet material like metal, plastic, or laminate
- Creates smoothly tapered holes and avoids material snagging
- Great for enlarging existing holes without switching bits
- Popular with electricians, plumbers, and DIY enthusiasts
Why use them:
- Drill various hole sizes using just one tool
- Cleaner cuts and less chance of tearing material
- No walking or wandering when starting a hole
🌀 Cone Drills
What they are:
Cone drills—sometimes called tapered or graduated drills—have a smooth, conical shape. They’re designed to enlarge or finish present holes.
When to use them:
- For hole enlargement or cleaning out drilled holes
- Best suited to wood, soft timber, and composites
- Helps remove burrs or expand drilled openings to precise sizes (e.g. wiring access or furniture fittings)
Why use them:
- Great for finishing or enlarging existing holes
- Provides smooth, tapering hole walls
- Less pressure needed—ideal for delicate materials
🧠 When to Choose What:
- Use a Step Drill when you need to create multiple hole sizes in the same run—especially in sheet metal or plastic—for fast, clean drilling.
- Use a Cone Drill for precision hole finishing or enlarging in softer materials—or when burr-free results matter most.
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👍 Pro Tips:
- Use cutting fluid or lubricant to extend life—especially with metal drilling.
- Secure your material firmly before drilling to avoid slippage. Browse our range of clamps.
- Clean and sharpen cone bits regularly for consistent performance. See our blog Protect Your Tools and Rust Rescue
- Use personal safety gear — browse our range of gloves, safety specs, ear protectors and more!