The 10 Best Auger Drill Bits

Editor's Notes

September 30, 2020:

Although their designs may vary slightly based on the manufacturer, all of these auger drill bits are good for sinking holes deeply into wooden workpieces quickly and efficiently. Just insert one into a power drill and press down slightly, and the tip and rotating helical blades will create the hole and also remove the resulting wood chips and shavings. Coming on board in this update is the Diablo by Freud DAG1160, which is from a company that’s been making saw blades, router bits, and more for nearly five decades. It incorporates the brand’s signature red color and features deep flutes to enhance the chip evacuation process, to help you work quickly. The shank is quick and easy to remove from the drill, in the event you need to swap it out for another size. It joins an array of other big-name brands in this update, including the reliable six-piece Irwin Tools Speedbor, which includes sizes up to 1-1/4 inches in diameter. It’s well suited for drilling holes for Ethernet cables, water and gas piping, and more.

For a choice that will reduce the amount of torque impact significantly when it makes contact with nails, look to the Bosch Daredevil. This feature makes it suitable for heavy-duty applications and helps increase its lifespan and minimizes damage to your hardware. You can buy it with confidence, thanks to a one-year warranty. For the combination of a durable cutting edge and a flute that ensures speedy debris extraction, the DeWalt DW1681 is hard to beat. Like the Freud model, it’s got a handy ball groove at the end that ensures quick and easy removal from the drill chuck. As mentioned in our last update, for safety’s sake you should wear eye protection during woodworking projects. In addition, always unplug your drill when you’re swapping out bits.

June 26, 2019:

When you’re boring holes into wood, an auger drill bit is often necessary for the job. This centuries-old tool has sharp spurs on the edges of its tip to make sure the hole it’s creating is smooth and uniform throughout. Its fluted design allows for the removal of debris as you work, and it keeps the new hole from becoming clogged with shavings. Most auger bits are intended only for use with wood, although there are exceptions (such as the Yard Butler on our list, which is made to create holes in soil). These tools are well suited for projects like making furniture, constructing a backyard deck or raised garden bed, and more.

Joining our list is the DeWalt DW1681, which is made with an overall length of 17 inches, with a 5/8-inch diameter. It’s built for the long haul, with a hardened alloy steel body and a sturdy, dual-cutting edge. Its self-feed spur quickly penetrates through all types of wood, and the hollow center flute assists with debris extraction. And, you’ll appreciate the convenience afforded by its handy ball groove end that allows you to remove it easily from your drill chuck when you’re done using it.

Another new addition is the sturdy Milwaukee 3-Piece Set, which will help you drill with confidence into any wooden workpiece. These shiny tools come in three commonly used diameters and feature a polished flute finish to which shavings won’t stick. The longer shaft length makes it simple to drill deep without needing an extension. And the signature Milwaukee-red, roll-up pouch certainly comes in handy for organization and portability.

Sadly, the Pit Bull CHIAU0624 eight-bit set leaves the list in his update, due to its lack of availability. Also making an exit is the TruePower 09-0279 Stubby, due to some reported quality issues.

No matter which tool or set you choose, always be sure to follow safe woodworking practices, including protecting your eyes and ears and unplugging power tools when you’re making adjustments to them or swapping out bits.