If a masonry bit spins without making progress in concrete, first check that the drill’s hammer action is enabled, the bit is sharp and rated for percussion, and the bit fits the chuck. Then drill straight with steady pressure. In a deep hole, clear packed dust by partly withdrawing the running bit. If the bit stops abruptly against a hard obstruction, stop and investigate rather than forcing it.
1. Check the drill mode
If your drill has a mode selector, set it to the drill-and-hammer setting for masonry. DEWALT says masonry can be drilled without hammer action using a masonry bit, but recommends hammer action for greater masonry capacity, faster and more accurate drilling, and less wear on the drill. Bosch likewise recommends drill-and-hammer mode for best masonry performance. Not every drill has a hammer function.
Follow the operating instructions for your specific tool; mode symbols and available settings vary by model. DEWALT support addresses drilling masonry without hammering, while Bosch’s masonry guidance recommends hammer mode for the task.
2. Inspect the bit and confirm it fits
Use a sharp, carbide-tipped masonry bit that the manufacturer rates for percussion drilling. A worn, damaged, or blunt tip may struggle to cut. DEWALT’s DCH273 manual calls for sharp carbide-tipped bits rated for percussion; Bosch also identifies carbide-tipped bits for concrete and recommends hammer mode for masonry.
#1 Best Overall
- CARBIDE TIPS AND STEEL BODIES: Each bit combines a spear-shaped carbide cutting tip with a steel body and spiral flutes that guide loosened material along the bit; use speed, pressure, and cooling suited to the surface
- 3-FLAT SHANK FOR STANDARD DRILLS: Fits compatible keyed or keyless 3-jaw chucks on corded drills, cordless drills, hand drills, and drill presses; not for SDS rotary hammers or 1/4-inch impact-driver collets
- 12 BITS IN 7 SIZES: Includes one 1/8", one 5/32", two 3/16", four 1/4", two 5/16", one 3/8 masonry drill bit, and one 1/2" bit for pilot holes and step-up drilling
- FOR MATCHING PROJECT SURFACES: Select masonry drill bits for brick, concrete, cement, stucco, ceramic tile, glass, wood, and plastic; begin at low speed, use light pressure, keep the drill aligned, and add water on hard surfaces
- MARKED SIZES WITH STORAGE CASE: Visible size markings help identify each diameter, while the included transparent case keeps all 12 bits together for selection, transport, and storage between home repair and installation tasks
Check that the bit’s shank matches the drill’s chuck. SDS-Plus and SDS-Max are different connection classes, not interchangeable labels. For example, a bit specified for an SDS-Plus chuck will not fit a different chuck system unless the tool is designed to accept it. Compare the bit’s connection, intended material and operating mode, diameter, and working length with your tool and the hole you need. DEWALT’s SDS-Plus bit listing identifies a carbide-tipped rotary-hammer bit, and Hilti’s concrete and masonry bit range distinguishes connection types and applications.
3. Use straight, controlled pressure
Hold the drill at a right angle to the surface and apply firm, steady pressure. Do not lean excessively on the tool: DEWALT cautions that too much force can reduce speed, overheat the drill, and slow drilling. Avoid pushing sideways, which can clog the bit’s flutes and impede progress. Let the tool and suitable bit do the work.
Rank #2
- FOR HARD SURFACES: Wear-resistant tungsten carbide tip drills into brick, concrete, tile, glass, ceramic, travertine and hard plastic without slipping. Reinforced tip keeps its edge to deliver clean, steady holes for wall anchors, grab bars and shelves
- FAST DUST REMOVAL: Dual U-groove flutes clear debris quickly, reducing clogging for smoother drilling. The masonry drill bit set is ideal for DIY and home repair. Start at low speed with light pressure and let the bit cool between holes to extend its life
- 10 BITS IN 7 SIZES: This concrete drill bit set includes 1/8", 5/32", 3/16", 1/4" (4 pcs), 5/16", 3/8" and 1/2" bits, Extra 1/4" bits provide handy spares for common drilling tasks. Comes with a storage case to keep all bits organized and easy to find
- FOR BATH, KITCHEN & CRAFTS: Ideal for drilling bathroom tile, mounting mirrors, cabinets and grab bars, or making drainage holes in ceramic pots. For tile and glass, use painter's tape to stop slipping, drill slowly & use water cooling to reduce chipping
- 3-FLAT SHANK FOR STANDARD DRILLS: Anti-slip shank fits standard keyed or keyless 3-jaw chucks on corded, cordless and hand drills, plus drill presses for a wobble-free hold. Use rotary mode only, Not for hammer drills, impact drivers or SDS rotary hammers
4. Clear dust from a deep hole
If progress or hammer speed drops as the hole gets deeper, dust and debris may be collecting around the bit. DEWALT’s manual advises partially withdrawing the bit while the tool is still running to help clear the hole. The manual describes a smooth, even flow of dust as an indication of an appropriate drilling rate.
5. Stop if the bit hits a hard obstruction
A sudden, persistent stop is not proof that the bit has reached reinforcing bar. The available manufacturer guidance does not provide a reliable way to identify what lies behind a particular surface. Stop drilling rather than forcing the tool. Check project information and use a suitable detection method before changing the hole location or considering an accessory for reinforcement.
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- 2 cutter carbide tip of masonry drill bit set maximizes carbide surface contact for longer bit life.
- Four flute design cleans debris out for fast, efficient drilling
- Three flats on shank eliminate bit slipping in chuck (except DW5232, DW5233, DW5237, DW5238)
Rebar-specific accessories are not general-purpose concrete bits. Hilti says its dedicated rebar hammer bit is for rebar, not concrete drilling. Its separate rebar cutter is intended for rebar and specifies rotation mode only. Use one only if reinforcement is confirmed and the work permits cutting it; consult the accessory instructions and applicable project requirements. Hilti’s rebar accessory information distinguishes the rebar tools from bits intended to drill concrete.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check before replacing anything
A new tool or bit is not automatically necessary. Start with the drill setting, bit condition, shank fit, and technique. If the bit is unsuitable or worn, choose a replacement by matching its chuck connection, manufacturer-stated material and operating mode, diameter, and working length to the job. If the drill lacks hammer action or its stated capacity does not suit the hole and material, compare tools on those same criteria before deciding to replace it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 10PCS Masonry Drill Bit Set: Includes 10 commonly used sizes from 5/32" to 1/2" for different drilling needs. A practical carbide drill bit set for installing wall anchors, screws, shelves, fixtures, bathroom hardware, kitchen accessories, and general home repair projects
- Carbide Tip for Multiple Materials: Designed with carbide tips to drill into concrete, brick, cement, ceramic tile, glass, plastic, and other masonry surfaces. Suitable for home improvement, remodeling, tile work, and everyday drilling tasks
- Hex Shank for Secure Grip: The hex shank design helps reduce slipping in the drill chuck and provides a more stable hold during use. Works with most standard electric drills, cordless drills, and compatible drill drivers
- Clean Drilling with Proper Use: For glass, ceramic tile, and other smooth surfaces, start at a low speed, keep the bit steady, and use water for cooling when needed. Do not use hammer mode on glass or tile to help reduce cracking and bit wear
- Versatile Home and Workshop Applications: Suitable for drilling pilot holes in walls, brick, tile, cement, plastic, and concrete for anchors or fasteners. Please match the drill mode, speed, and pressure to the material for better drilling results and longer bit life
Rank #4
- 2 cutter carbide tip of masonry drill bit set maximizes carbide surface contact for longer bit life.
- Four flute design cleans debris out for fast, efficient drilling
- Three flats on shank eliminate bit slipping in chuck (except DW5232, DW5233, DW5237, DW5238)
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