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Drill Bit Angles 118 Vs 135 for Optimal Performance

2025-11-02

Have you ever struggled with unsatisfactory drilling results? Is it due to a dull drill bit or improper technique? Often, the key lies in selecting the correct drill bit angle. The numbers 118° and 135° may seem simple, but they hold profound significance in drilling efficiency. Choosing the right angle can enhance productivity, extend tool life, and deliver superior results. This article explores the characteristics and applications of these two common drill bit angles.

118° Drill Bits: The Versatile Performer

The 118° drill bit is the Swiss Army knife of drilling tools. Its balanced design makes it suitable for wood, plastic, and various metals, making it ideal for DIY projects and general machining. Key advantages include:

  • Material adaptability: Effective on softwoods, hardwoods, plastics, and aluminum, reducing the need for frequent bit changes.
  • Precision cutting: The smaller angle produces smoother holes with better surface finish, crucial for woodworking and delicate materials.
  • Reduced heat generation: Generates less friction compared to steeper angles, minimizing tool wear and material damage, especially important for heat-sensitive applications.
135° Drill Bits: The Hard Material Specialist

Where 118° bits excel in versatility, 135° bits dominate in hard material penetration. Designed for stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium alloys, these bits feature:

  • Enhanced hardness capability: The steeper angle provides greater cutting force to overcome tough materials that would quickly dull standard bits.
  • Superior durability: Typically constructed with premium materials and specialized coatings to withstand extreme abrasion during hard material drilling.
  • Aggressive cutting action: The increased angle creates more efficient material removal, particularly beneficial for thick sections of hard metals.
Selection Criteria: Beyond Material Hardness

Optimal bit selection requires evaluating multiple factors:

  • Material properties: Base your primary decision on material hardness - 135° for hardened metals, 118° for softer materials.
  • Depth requirements: For deep holes in any material, the 135° bit's stronger cutting action maintains better penetration.
  • Finish quality: When surface smoothness matters most, the 118° bit's gentler cutting action produces cleaner results.
  • Tool longevity: While 135° bits cost slightly more, their specialized design often provides better value for hard material applications.
  • Equipment capacity: The 135° bit's efficient cutting can reduce strain on lower-powered drilling equipment.
Maintenance Practices for Maximum Performance
  • Select reputable manufacturers for consistent quality and performance
  • Inspect for defects before use - discard any bits with visible damage
  • Employ cutting fluids when drilling hard materials to manage heat
  • Match drilling speed to both material and bit specifications
  • Regularly sharpen bits to maintain cutting efficiency
  • Store properly in protective organizers to prevent edge damage
Specialized Applications
  • 90° bits for chamfering and countersinking operations
  • 120° variants for specific metal alloys
  • Custom-ground solutions for specialized industrial requirements

Understanding these angle differences enables professionals and hobbyists alike to achieve superior drilling results. The right bit selection, combined with proper technique and maintenance, transforms challenging drilling tasks into efficient, precise operations.

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Blog Details
Home > Blog >

Company blog about-Drill Bit Angles 118 Vs 135 for Optimal Performance

Drill Bit Angles 118 Vs 135 for Optimal Performance

2025-11-02

Have you ever struggled with unsatisfactory drilling results? Is it due to a dull drill bit or improper technique? Often, the key lies in selecting the correct drill bit angle. The numbers 118° and 135° may seem simple, but they hold profound significance in drilling efficiency. Choosing the right angle can enhance productivity, extend tool life, and deliver superior results. This article explores the characteristics and applications of these two common drill bit angles.

118° Drill Bits: The Versatile Performer

The 118° drill bit is the Swiss Army knife of drilling tools. Its balanced design makes it suitable for wood, plastic, and various metals, making it ideal for DIY projects and general machining. Key advantages include:

  • Material adaptability: Effective on softwoods, hardwoods, plastics, and aluminum, reducing the need for frequent bit changes.
  • Precision cutting: The smaller angle produces smoother holes with better surface finish, crucial for woodworking and delicate materials.
  • Reduced heat generation: Generates less friction compared to steeper angles, minimizing tool wear and material damage, especially important for heat-sensitive applications.
135° Drill Bits: The Hard Material Specialist

Where 118° bits excel in versatility, 135° bits dominate in hard material penetration. Designed for stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium alloys, these bits feature:

  • Enhanced hardness capability: The steeper angle provides greater cutting force to overcome tough materials that would quickly dull standard bits.
  • Superior durability: Typically constructed with premium materials and specialized coatings to withstand extreme abrasion during hard material drilling.
  • Aggressive cutting action: The increased angle creates more efficient material removal, particularly beneficial for thick sections of hard metals.
Selection Criteria: Beyond Material Hardness

Optimal bit selection requires evaluating multiple factors:

  • Material properties: Base your primary decision on material hardness - 135° for hardened metals, 118° for softer materials.
  • Depth requirements: For deep holes in any material, the 135° bit's stronger cutting action maintains better penetration.
  • Finish quality: When surface smoothness matters most, the 118° bit's gentler cutting action produces cleaner results.
  • Tool longevity: While 135° bits cost slightly more, their specialized design often provides better value for hard material applications.
  • Equipment capacity: The 135° bit's efficient cutting can reduce strain on lower-powered drilling equipment.
Maintenance Practices for Maximum Performance
  • Select reputable manufacturers for consistent quality and performance
  • Inspect for defects before use - discard any bits with visible damage
  • Employ cutting fluids when drilling hard materials to manage heat
  • Match drilling speed to both material and bit specifications
  • Regularly sharpen bits to maintain cutting efficiency
  • Store properly in protective organizers to prevent edge damage
Specialized Applications
  • 90° bits for chamfering and countersinking operations
  • 120° variants for specific metal alloys
  • Custom-ground solutions for specialized industrial requirements

Understanding these angle differences enables professionals and hobbyists alike to achieve superior drilling results. The right bit selection, combined with proper technique and maintenance, transforms challenging drilling tasks into efficient, precise operations.