If you deal with glassware, you will agree with me that one of the significant challenges is drilling holes. Besides encountering the risk of breaking the glass, you also risk injuring yourself. Acquiring the best drill bits for glass is therefore not optional unless you don’t mind incurring losses all the time. Glass is both a brittle and delicate material to drill, and only superior quality drill bits can provide you with the precision required in the holes.
Different brands of drill bits for glass are available in the market. You will, therefore, need to exercise maximum caution when buying to get the most suitable for your needs. You may not know what to look for or which brands are vital, and it will, therefore, be challenging. However, this guide is ideal for you as it explains the factors to consider, gives you a list of the six top tools as well as the FAQs that are helpful to you. READ ON and choose the right drill bits that will suit you:
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Drill Bits for Glass
When dealing with glass, you will at one time or the other need to drill a hole in the material. You will, therefore, need the drill bits that give you the most perfect and smooth work. It is, therefore, necessary to know what to look for in these tools. Below is a list of factors that are worth considering:
- The side holes
When selecting drill bits, you need to get one that will pull out slugs that cause corrosion. The tools with side holes help to prevent damaging or even breaking the glass while working on it. This feature also helps you to get neat and clean holes.
- Nickel Plating
Nickel-plated drill bits help to offer exceptional resistance to abrasion when drilling. The tools also have tight tolerance as well as reducing the friction, thus producing uniform precision with no edge build-up.
- The material Used
The material used in making drill bits play a significant role in the accuracy of holes that you get. It is, therefore, necessary to know what content is best for your work. A diamond tip is ideal if you do not want tiny holes. The tips coated with diamond sand are also suitable in cutting clean holes. You can also pick tungsten carbide coated top as this will work well on your glass without cracking it.
- The shape of the drill bit
There are different shapes of bits for various surfaces or materials such as hole saw drill bits, counter skin drill bits and those with different angles. Small glass bits have the shape of ordinary bits, but if you are dealing with large sized holes, then you require a hole saw style bit. The saw-style tool helps to stop the edges from chipping and cracking. The hollow core of the drill bit also securely removes the materials drilled from the hole. There are also circular or spear-shaped drill bits with circular bits being ideal for drilling circle/holes in bottles. Spear-shaped tools are useful in the design and working with particular materials.
- A Flat Handle
Since the handle or shank acts directly on your workpiece, it needs to be flat to reduce slippage while drilling. It also allows for higher torque and greater centring precision. A flat shank also helps you to cope with any type of workpiece by offering a smooth rotation. The tool also enables you to work with little pressure from the upper part of your drill bit, and thus you don’t strain your hand.
Top 6 Drill Bits for Glass (Best Picks)
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Summary of the Best Six Drill Bits for Glass
Getting the right drill bit for glass is the right step towards achieving a flawless outcome as well as curbing the risk of breaking the glass. It may not be easy to pick the best from several in the market, even with the knowledge of what to consider. You will still need to use your time moving from one shop to another and testing several of them. It may, however, not be viable to get time out of your busy schedule to do this. So what do you do? Don’t worry; we got your back! We have done a research and compiled a list of the six top drill bits for glass that provides you with everything you need. READ on and pick the best:
Drill Bits for glass | Features/ Benefits |
00823A Diamond Grit Hole Saw Drill Bit Set by Neiko | Five-piece set Diamond coating for maximizing performance Side holes for easy slug removal Nickel-plating for maximum durability Resistance to corrosion |
8-Piece Glass and Tile Bit Set by Bosch | Includes a storage case GT3000 Unique design with a precision tip Includes high-quality carbide tip Ideal for typical applications such as relief holes The flat shank that provides superior grip |
10-Piece Masonry Drill Bits Set by Owl Tools | Chrome-plated with industrial-strength carbide tips Multi-material drill bits Easily drills through ceramic tile, cinderblock, hard plastic, cement, concrete among others Long-lasting industrial-grade carbide tips Includes a convenient storage case |
Diamond drill bits by BLENDX | Tile and glass hollow core drill bits 10-sizes from 6mm to 50mm Applicable for drill glass, block jars, tile ceramic, fibreglass, and tile bottles Reduced drill speeds, increased use of water lubrication and low drill pressure |
5-Pieces Multi-material drill bit set by QWORK | Suitable for drill fastener holes in bathroom tiles or wall mirrors Spear-pointed design Durable tungsten carbide tip for easy penetration through various materials A U-type slot design with fast drilling dust removal 3-flats shank for tight and stable handling Heavy duty drill bits |
10-pieces hole saw diamond drill bit set by Baban | Diamond-coated core drill bit Perfect for drilling glass, tiles, granite, marble, or ceramic, tile bottles, fibreglass Made of durable high-speed steel Sharp and smooth cut with no broken edges |
a). 00823A Diamond Grit Hole Saw Drill Bit Set by Neiko
This 00823 Diamond drill bit set is ideal for all home projects since it provides smooth and efficient grilling. The bits have a diamond coating that helps to maximize drilling performance as well as to retain a sharp cutting edge even after several applications. The diamond coating also helps to maintain a sharper edge than ordinary carbide and bimetal hole saws. The set includes several sizes that are applicable for home and professional use, and it is also suitable for use on multiple types of material like ceramics, plastic, and glass. The set includes five pieces that are nickel-plated for extra durability and protection against corrosion even after numerous uses.
Each of the bits in this set has side holes that help to remove any slugs quickly after drilling hence smooth to operate. You will also perform smoothly without the tool slipping from your hand since the bits are equipped with a universal 1/4-inch shank. This handle gives you a secure hold as it easily fits safely onto any power drill hence does not interfere with your smooth operation.
Features
- Ideal for cutting different materials such as ceramics and glass
- Easy slug removal through the side holes
- Ideal for cutting precision holes in glass, ceramics and more
- Variety of sizes from 5/32-inches to 1/2-inch
- Cutting depth of 3/4-inch to 1/4-inch shank
Specifications
- Item weight: 1.6 ounces
- Product dimensions: 4 x 3 x 1 inches
- Style: a 5-pc small set
- Item model number: 00823A
- Size: a 5-pc small set
A perfect drill bit set for all home uses!
b). 8-Piece Glass and Tile Bit Set by Bosch
The 8-piece glass and tile bit set by Bosch features Bosch’s distinctive product design that has a precision tip to help solve any bit wandering. The set also includes superior quality carbide tip with a reinforced head that helps in the reduction of stress. It also helps to prevent cracking, and the diamond ground cutting edges offer additional durability. The drill bit set is suitable for everyday uses such as relief holes for glass cutting, shower and bathroom installation. They are also applicable in drilling and fastening mirrors, setting solid screws in tile among other uses.
The set is reliable in drilling since it has a flat shank that provides excellent grip on more significant bits from 5/16-inches and above hence preventing slippage. You will easily use this set and still get the best-in-class speed, thus completing your job on time. The collection also features an innovative geometry that allows the bits to drill quickly. It is also possible to carry the bits wherever and also stay organized with the brute sturdy storage bag.
Features
- The precision tip that helps solve any bit wandering
- High-quality glass and tile with carbide tip to reduce stress
- Diamond ground cutting edges that help to provide a longer life
- Perfect for various applications including relief holes for glass cutting, bathroom and shower installs
- Flat shank for superior grip
Specifications
- Item weight: 3.36 ounces
- Product dimensions: 9.9 x 7.6 x 1.2 inches
- Item model number: GT3000
- Colour: silver
- Style: 8-pieces
- Material: carbide
A reliable and versatile set for multiple applications!
c). 10-Piece Masonry Drill Bits Set by Owl tools
This drill bit set by owl tools easily drills through various materials including tile, ceramic, glass, hard plastic, mirrors, wood, among others. Each piece has a durable industrial-grade carbide tip that enhances longevity and helps them stay sharper for a more extended period. The 10-piece drill bit set comes in a convenient storage case that helps to keep the tools organized and safe. The bag also helps to prevent the devices from rust in a hard plastic container.
The set includes various bit sizes ranging from 5/16-inch to 1/2-inch, and it is, therefore, possible to drill holes of different diameters. The tools come with a satisfaction guarantee which ensures that you get the items in perfect condition, thus giving you value for your money.
Features
- Multi-material drill bits that easily drill through ceramic tile, glass, ceramic, cinderblock among others
- Long-lasting industrial-grade carbide tips
- Convenient storage case for organizing your tools
- Lifetime warranty
Specifications
- Item weight: 12.8 ounces
- Product dimensions: 7.8 x 3.5 x 0.8 inches
- Material: carbide
Suitable for drilling most materials!
d). Diamond Drill Bits by BLENDX
Diamond drill bits are also known as diamond hole saws. They are flexible bits that can drill glass, porcelain, ceramic tile, limestone, slate, marble, fibreglass, among others. The tools are excellent for making clean and flawless holes on tiles and glass without the risk of breaking them. They are therefore more cost-effective than other brands of drill bits since you can use them in a wide range of applications.
It is possible to reduce drill speeds, increase the use of water lubrication and reduce drill pressure, which will help to extend drill bit life considerably. The tools should not be, however, used on concrete or for depths that are more than 1/2-inch. It is also necessary to use enough water when drilling for cooling and lubrication.
Features
- Excellent performance and durable
- Excellent for making clean and precise holes on glass and tile
- Works well with an electric drill
- Ideal for processing tiles, ceramics, granite, stone among others
Specifications
- Item weight: 10.1 ounces
- Product dimensions: 5.2 x 3.2 x 2.5 inches
- Item model number: FBA-bx-022
- Colour: Silver
- Style: hollow core drill bits
Perfect drill bits for most materials!
e). 5-Pieces Multi-Material Drill Bit Set by QWORK
The multi-material drill bit set by QWORK is suitable for drilling fastening holes in bathrooms tiles or wall mirrors. It is also used for all other masonry work. The bits have a spear-pointed design and reliable tungsten carbide tips that allow them to readily penetrate through various materials such as concrete, brick, glass, tile, plastic, and wood. They do not also break the workpieces and are thus convenient for you.
The set includes five pieces with different sizes, i.e. 1/4-inch, 5/16-inches, 3/8-inches, and ½-inch and this allows you to drill holes of different diameters accurately. The tools also have a U-type design with quick drilling dust remove and 3-flats shank that enables you to hold the drill bit tightly and stably. It is advisable to use water for lubrication when drilling hard materials such as porcelain floor tile, marble, glass or granite.
Features
- Copes easily with any masonry
- Spear-pointed design, sturdy tungsten carbide tip for easy penetration
- 5-pieces with four different sizes
- A U-type slot design with four different sizes
- 3-flats shank for stability and firmness when drilling hard materials
- High-quality, heavy-duty drill bits
Specifications
- Item weight: 3.84 ounces
- Product dimensions: 2.8 x 0.6 x 5.4 inches
- Item model number: WD1801
- Size: 5-pieces set (6,6,8,12mm)
- Material: carbide
- Colour: black and silver
A perfect tool for all masonry work!
f). 10-Pieces Hole Saw Diamond Drill Bit Set by BABAN
Each of the 10-pieces drill bit set by Baban is diamond coated to remove a complete circle from glass, ceramic, tiles, marble, or granite, thus giving a smooth outcome. The tools are suitable for a wide range of applications including tile bottles, drill glass, fibreglass porcelain tile ceramic, dark marble, light granite stone, among other uses. They are made from high-speed steel that is durable with long service life, thus providing high-quality and competent performance that is excellent for clean and accurate holes.
The drill bits are coated with the superior-quality diamond that creates high precision as well as smooth cut with no broken edges. It is, however, necessary to use reduced drill speeds, increased use of water lubrication, and low drill pressure for extended-life of the drill bit. The use of water lubrication prevents the diamond core from burning. The drill bits should not be used on concrete or with depths more than 1/2-inches.
Features
- Diamond-coated core for removing complete circle from glass and other materials
- Made from high-speed steel that is long-lasting with a long service
- Suitable for making a clean and precise hole
- Sharp and smooth cut from high-quality diamond
- Reduced drill speeds, increased use of water, and low drill pressure for extension of bit life
Specifications
- Item weight: 0.3 ounces
- Product dimensions: 3.5 x 2.8 x 1.2 inches
- Item model number: BABAN move 1165
- Size: 6-32mm
- Style: 6mm-32mm
- Material: stainless steel
Perfect for drilling various materials!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Drill Bits for Glass
Below is a list of the frequently asked questions about drill bits for glass that we found useful to you:
Q. Which is the suitable drill bit for glass?
Glass is delicate and fragile, and therefore not all bits can be used on it. However, there are generally two types of drill bits that can be used to drill holes on the glass effectively. Tungsten carbide spear-tipped and diamond-tipped drill bits are efficient since they can work on glass without any breakage. For tempered glass, diamond-coated and carbide-tipped are the best options.
Q. It possible to drill through the glass with an ordinary drill bit?
It is possible to drill through glass using ordinary drill bits that are made of materials harder than the lens itself. The right electric drill bit can be correctly used on glass without damaging it.
Q. What material are drill bits made of?
Drill bits are commonly made of steel that is referred to as HSS (High-speed steel). Some brands heat the bits to high temperatures of up to 950oF to make black oxide bits which makes them rust and corrosion-resistant.
Q. Is it possible to drill through glass without breaking it?
Drilling produces heat which can break the glass. It is, therefore, necessary to cool the area you are working on by spraying water or placing the object in water as you drill. It is advisable to drill just halfway through the glass and not break thought it. The glass should then be turned over and cut again from the other side.
Q. How can one tell if the glass is tempered?
Tempered glass has edges that are entirely smooth as a result of the additional processing it goes through. Other types of glass have ridged or scuffed edges, and it is, therefore, possible to differentiate them. You can efficiently run your fingers along the edges if they are exposed.
Q. Can a Dremel be used to cut glass?
Dremel is a brand of power tools, mainly rotary tools that can be used for cutting wood, glass, plastic, and metals. The device can be used to cut not just ordinary glass, but also plexiglass and also fibreglass.
How to Drill Glass
Final word
Drilling glass is a challenging process since it is prone to cracks and shattering. It is, therefore, necessary to look for the most appropriate drill bits for glass that will not only give you the best outcome but also minimize the risk of breaking your glass. When choosing the drill bits, ensure that they are made of a material that is harder than the glass itself. HSS (High-Speed Steel) is the most suitable material since it can penetrate through the glass without causing any breakages.
Purchasing a set of drill bits of different sizes is also advisable since you will not need to buy more sets any time you have a different project. The collection should also be made of durable material as well as have diamond-coated tips for accuracy and precision. To get rid of slug or removed materials, ensure that the drill bits have side holes. It is also crucial to select the drill bits with a flat shank or grip to prevent the tool from slipping out of your hands when you are drilling. The flat grip also enhances the stability and efficiency of the devices and makes it quick and smooth for your project.
With the best drill bits for glass, nothing can stop you from achieving your desired goals. So don’t be left behind! Let nothing stop you! Pick what suits you from the above list and drill like a pro!
References:
- https://www.wikihow.com/Drill-Holes-Through-Glass
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drill_bit
- http://wiki.diyfaq.org.uk/index.php/Drill_bit
- https://www.pinterest.com/blackcatshack/glass-drill-bits/
Last update on 2023-02-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
