Industry Knowledge
Blog
Technical guides, buying advice, and manufacturing insights for industrial cutting tool professionals.
Step Drill Bits: When to Use Them and How to Pick the Right One
Step drill bits cut clean, burr-free holes in sheet metal and thin materials without pilot holes. Learn how to choose the right step count, size range, and coating for your application.
118° vs 135° Point Angles: Which Drill Bit Geometry Cuts Better?
The point angle on a drill bit determines how it starts, how much thrust force is needed, and what materials it cuts best. Learn when to choose 118° conventional points versus 135° split points.
HSS Drill Bit Shank Types Explained: Straight, Taper, and Reduced
The shank is how a drill bit connects to your machine. Straight, taper, and reduced shanks each serve different purposes. Learn which shank type fits your chuck, machine, and application.
M2 vs M35 vs M42 HSS: Which Drill Bit Grade Do You Actually Need?
Not all high-speed steel is the same. Learn the real differences between M2, M35, and M42 grades — hardness, heat resistance, cost — so you can spec the right drill bit for your application.
Twist Drill Bit Anatomy: Understanding Flutes, Margins, and Web Thickness
Every part of a twist drill bit serves a purpose. Understanding flutes, margins, web thickness, and helix angle helps you choose the right bit and troubleshoot drilling problems faster.
Bi-Metal Hole Saws: How to Choose the Right Size, Teeth, and Material
Bi-metal hole saws combine HSS cutting teeth with a flexible spring steel body. Learn how to select the right tooth material, diameter, and pitch for wood, metal, stainless, and plastic applications.
Have a Technical Question?
Our engineering team can help you spec the right HSS grade, coating, and geometry for your application.
Contact Our Team