The 10 Best Core Drill Bits
This wiki has been updated 25 times since it was first published in March of 2017. Engineered for boring into tough and sometimes delicate materials, like concrete, stone, ceramic and tile, these coring bits will enable you to take on challenging drilling tasks. With both wet and dry operation modes and several width and depth options, the models on this list are suitable for a variety of applications and for professional contractors and DIY-ers alike. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Bosch Max
2. EDiamondTools Grit
3. Shdiatool Laser
Editor's Notes
February 24, 2021:
After considerable time spent researching the core drill bits on the market, we have determined that our current recommendations still represent the best on offer, and cover enough materials that no changes should be made at this time. All of these bits produce clean and accurate holes, and hold up as well as can be expected considering the extreme conditions they are subjected to during use. Whether you need something to use wet or dry, on concrete, marble, granite, ceramic, bricks, or even glass, there is an option here to fit your needs.
August 16, 2019:
In reviewing the list, we noted that while the Concord Blades CBD0400HP is certainly a functional bit, there were minor issues associated with it that led us to move it out of the top spot. Reports suggest that it wears out somewhat quickly when used extensively and lacks a pilot bit, which can cause skidding when working on concrete.
Given its price and effectiveness, users seem to find great value in the EDiamondTools Grit. We noted its ability to bore through both bricks and concrete blocks with speed and fluidity, leading us to give it a bump in the rankings.
Each of the three new additions to the list brings something a little bit different to the table. While the Baban Ceramic is designed for precision jobs on materials like glass, ceramics, or porcelain, the Shdiatool Laser can be used on just about anything, from concrete to hard marble. On the other hand, the Bosch Max is tailor-made for a hammer drill, capable of producing large holes in thick concrete or brick. We noted this model’s exceptional efficiency.
Special Honors
McMaster-Carr Whatever trade you specialize in, this selection from McMaster-Carr should include a piece that will make your life easier. Some bits are designed for specific materials, such as masonry, glass, or wood, while others offer special features, like dust containment mechanisms or built-in pilot guides. mcmaster.com
Dynatech O.D. Premium When it comes to drill bits, the term “one size fits all” does not apply, so it’s nice that this line from Dynatech is available in such a huge variety of sizes. They all have a 13-inch depth capacity, and they’ll operate smoothly on anything from hard concrete to soft asphalt. dynatech.com
Diamax Cyclone Ultra Ideal for use with an angle grinder or a pneumatic machine, the Cyclone Ultra is both versatile and aggressive. Its relatively short length affords the user plenty of control, and its beveled segments make it easy to get the hole started. diamaxinc.com
4. Damo Dry/Wet
5. Bosch Speedcore T3914SC
6. Baban Ceramic
7. Concord Blades CBD04000HP
8. Steel Dragon Tools
9. Concord Blades CBW02500SP
10. BQLZR Diamond
In addition to his corporate career as a marketing and communications professional in Chicago, Sam runs a popular blog that focuses on the city’s flourishing craft beer and brewery scene. He received his degree in journalism from DePaul University (which spurred his interest in freelance writing) and has since spent years developing expertise in copywriting, digital marketing and public relations. A lifetime of fishing, hiking and camping trips has left him well-versed in just about any outdoors-related topic, and over several years spent working in the trades during his youth, he accumulated a wealth of knowledge about tools and machinery. He’s a travel junkie, a health and fitness enthusiast, and an avid biker.