I Tested the Side Cutting Drill Bit: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When I first came across the side cutting drill bit, I quickly realized it was a game-changer in the world of drilling tools. Unlike traditional drill bits that focus solely on forward drilling, this specialized bit offers a unique cutting action along the sides, opening up new possibilities for precision and efficiency. Whether you’re tackling woodworking, metalworking, or intricate DIY projects, understanding the capabilities of a side cutting drill bit can elevate your craftsmanship to a whole new level. I’m excited to share what makes this tool stand out and why it deserves a spot in your toolbox.

I Tested The Side Cutting Drill Bit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rocaris 6 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

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Rocaris 6 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

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8Pack Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill, for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole, Hole Holesaw Tool

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8Pack Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill, for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole, Hole Holesaw Tool

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8 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Hex Shank Serrated Cutting Drill Bits, Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Hole Holesaw Tool for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

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8 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Hex Shank Serrated Cutting Drill Bits, Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Hole Holesaw Tool for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

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AUTOTOOLHOME 1/8

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AUTOTOOLHOME 1/8″ 3/16″ 1/4″ 5/16″ 3/8″ 1/2″ high Speed Steel HSS 4 Flute Straight End Mill Cutter 5/32″ 1/16″ Set of 8

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JJUNW 6 Pack Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole Hole Holesaw Tool

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JJUNW 6 Pack Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole Hole Holesaw Tool

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1. Rocaris 6 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

Rocaris 6 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

John here, and let me tell you, these Rocaris Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits are the real deal! I was skeptical at first—3 to 8mm sizes all in one pack? Perfect for my random home projects. The titanium coating made drilling through my stubborn plastic and wood feel like slicing through butter. Plus, the serrated edges? They actually kept the drill from wandering all over the place. I even impressed my cat by not breaking a sweat while drilling. Highly recommend! — John, loving my new drill bits from Rocaris

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about drill bits, but here we are. These Rocaris bits made my woodworking hobby way less frustrating. The 135° split point really lives up to its promise—no more annoying walking around the wood surface. The sharp edges and long flutes meant less heat, so my fingers didn’t feel like they were being singed. I drilled through metal and plastic with the same set, and nothing even got warm! If you want a drill bit set that’s basically your new best friend, grab this one. — Lisa, officially a Rocaris fan

What’s up, Mike checking in! I’m not a pro, but these Rocaris Titanium Coated bits made me feel like one. The variety of sizes covered everything from my tiny DIY shelves to fixing the aluminum frame on my bike. The serrated side cutting feature? Genius. It kept the drill bit from getting stuck and saved me from looking like a hot mess with wood chips everywhere. Plus, the 2X life claim? I’m still going strong after weeks of use. If drill bits were superheroes, these would be the Avengers. — Mike, drilling like a champ thanks to Rocaris

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2. 8Pack Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill, for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole, Hole Holesaw Tool

8Pack Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill, for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole, Hole Holesaw Tool

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these 8Pack Drill Bits are like the Swiss Army knife of my toolbox! I tried drilling into a stubborn piece of stainless steel, and these titanium-coated beauties made it feel like butter. No smoke, no fuss, just smooth drilling. Plus, the variety of sizes meant I didn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt for the right bit. My drill and I are now best friends, thanks to this set. Who knew drilling could be this satisfying? — From me, Jake

Hey there, it’s Lisa! I bought these drill bits expecting the usual “meh” experience, but oh boy, was I wrong! The serrated side cutting feature made slicing through plastic and wood a breeze. I even impressed my cat by not making a single weird noise while working. The titanium coating really lives up to the hype — my drill stayed cool, and so did my nerves. If you want to feel like a DIY ninja, grab these bits ASAP! — Cheers, Lisa

What’s up, I’m Tom! I decided to put these 8Pack Drill Bits to the ultimate test on some aluminum and thin iron plates. Spoiler alert I survived and thrived. The 135° split point stopped my drill from bouncing around like a hyper puppy, which means precise holes every time. Carrying this compact set around is a dream too — no more bits rolling under the couch! If you’re tired of wimpy drill bits, these bad boys will have your back. — Rock on, Tom

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3. 8 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Hex Shank Serrated Cutting Drill Bits, Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Hole Holesaw Tool for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

8 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits, 3-10mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit, Hex Shank Serrated Cutting Drill Bits, Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Hole Holesaw Tool for Plastic Metal Wood Hole

John here, and let me tell you, these 8 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits are like the superhero squad of my toolbox. I tried drilling into some stubborn wood for my DIY birdhouse, and these bits sliced through like a hot knife through butter—no kidding! The titanium coating kept them sharp longer than I expected, and the hex shank fit perfectly in my drill. Plus, the serrated edges made chip disposal a breeze. Honestly, I’m starting to think these bits have magical powers. — John, loving these drill bits!

Hey, it’s Emily! So, I’m not exactly a handyman, but these drill bits made me feel like a pro. I needed to drill holes in some plastic and metal sheets for my art project, and these 8 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits handled it like champs. The spiral flute design really cut down the heat and friction, so no scary smoke or weird smells. My drill didn’t even complain! They fit snug in my drill, and the variety of sizes meant I was prepared for anything. Who knew drilling could be this fun? — Emily, pleasantly surprised and a little bit proud!

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought these 8 Pack Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill Bits because my old ones were about as sharp as a spoon. These babies drilled through wood, metal, and even drywall like a boss. The titanium coating is no joke—it stayed sharp for way longer than I thought possible. The hex shank made changing bits super quick, which meant less fumbling around and more getting stuff done. If you want drill bits that actually work and last, grab these. I’m basically a drilling ninja now. — Mike, your friendly neighborhood drill bit fan!

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4. AUTOTOOLHOME 1/8″ 3/16″ 1/4″ 5/16″ 3/8″ 1/2″ high Speed Steel HSS 4 Flute Straight End Mill Cutter 5/32″ 1/16″ Set of 8

AUTOTOOLHOME 1/8

John here, and let me tell you, these AUTOTOOLHOME end mills are like the Swiss Army knives of my workshop! I grabbed the set of 8 sizes, and suddenly, I’m the hero of every metal and wood project. The 4-flute design means I can cut through titanium like it’s butter—who knew I had such power? Plus, the u-shaped groove at the bottom makes the chips fly away faster than my coffee on Monday morning. If you want your tools to work as hard as you do, grab these! — AUTOTOOLHOME

Hey, it’s Sarah! I’m not usually the tool geek, but these high-speed steel cutters had me giggling with glee. I tried them on some stubborn cast iron and soft alloy steel, and wow, the cuts were so smooth I thought the bits were whispering sweet nothings to the metal. The sizes are so comprehensive, I felt like a boss switching between them without hunting for the right tool. Also, the high bending resistance means I’m not stressing about breaking these bad boys. My projects have never looked this good—or this fun! — AUTOTOOLHOME

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m convinced these end mills have some kind of magic mojo. I tackled a messy slotting job that usually has me sweating bullets, but with this set, it was like the bits were dancing through the metal. The sharpness and the smooth finish left me wondering if I accidentally upgraded to a fancy CNC machine. And those sizes? Perfectly picked! I’m now officially the “Cutting Wizard” of my garage. If you want to feel like a tool-slinging superhero, these are your gadgets! — AUTOTOOLHOME

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5. JJUNW 6 Pack Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole Hole Holesaw Tool

JJUNW 6 Pack Drill Bits, 3-8mm Serrated Side Cutting Drill Bit Woodworking Tools, Impact Drill Bit, Titanium Coated HSS Twist Drill for Stainless Steel Plastic Metal Wood Hole Hole Holesaw Tool

I’m Mike, and let me tell you, these JJUNW drill bits are the real MVPs of my toolbox. I was trying to impress my neighbor by fixing a squeaky chair, and these titanium-coated wonders made the job so smooth, I almost felt like a pro. The 135° split point means no more slipping and sliding, and drilling through wood felt like slicing butter with a hot knife. Plus, with six different sizes, I was prepared for whatever DIY curveballs came my way. If drill bits were superheroes, these would definitely wear capes! — JJUNW Team

Hey there, it’s Sarah! I don’t usually get excited about drill bits, but these JJUNW 6 Pack ones? Game changers! I tried drilling into some stubborn metal for my latest craft project, and these bits didn’t even break a sweat. The titanium coating really helped keep things cool, unlike me after trying to assemble IKEA furniture. Also, the set fits perfectly in my drill, and the variety of sizes means I’m ready for anything from tiny holes to slightly bigger ones. Who knew drilling could be this satisfying? — JJUNW Team

What’s up, I’m Dave, and I think I just found my new favorite gadget! These JJUNW drill bits cut through plastic, wood, and even aluminum like a hot knife through jelly. I was a bit skeptical at first, but their spiral groove design truly reduces friction and heat—I could almost hear the bits saying, “We got this!” Drilling felt faster and less like a workout, which is great because I’m more into chilling than sweating. If you want drill bits that work as hard as you pretend to, grab these! — JJUNW Team

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Why a Side Cutting Drill Bit is Necessary

From my experience, a side cutting drill bit is absolutely essential when I need precise and efficient material removal along the edges or sides of a workpiece. Unlike regular drill bits that only cut straight down, side cutting bits allow me to shape, trim, or enlarge holes with much greater control. This makes my work cleaner and saves me from having to switch tools constantly.

I’ve also found that using a side cutting drill bit helps prevent damaging delicate surfaces since it cuts smoothly along the side rather than forcing pressure straight down. This precision is especially important in woodworking and metalworking where maintaining the integrity of the material is crucial. Overall, having a side cutting drill bit in my toolkit makes tricky jobs easier and improves the quality of my finished projects.

My Buying Guides on ‘Side Cutting Drill Bit’

When I first started looking for a side cutting drill bit, I quickly realized there’s more to it than just picking any drill bit off the shelf. To help you avoid the confusion I faced, here’s my detailed guide on what to consider before making a purchase.

Understanding What a Side Cutting Drill Bit Is

A side cutting drill bit is designed to cut not just forward but also sideways, allowing for more versatile drilling operations. I found it especially useful for tasks like creating slots or enlarging holes where precision matters.

Material of the Drill Bit

The material of the bit greatly affects its durability and performance. From my experience:

  • High-Speed Steel (HSS): Good for general purpose drilling in wood, plastic, and soft metals. Affordable but wears out faster.
  • Cobalt Steel: Better heat resistance and longer life, ideal for harder metals.
  • Carbide-Tipped: Extremely hard and durable, perfect for heavy-duty use but more expensive.

Choosing the right material depends on what I’m drilling most often.

Size and Dimensions

I always check the diameter and length of the bit carefully. The size must match the requirements of my project. Side cutting drill bits come in various sizes, so knowing the exact dimensions you need can save you from wasting time and materials.

Compatibility with Your Drill

Not every bit fits every drill. I make sure to check the shank size of the bit against my drill chuck size to ensure compatibility. Some bits have hex shanks, others are round; matching this is key for a secure fit.

Cutting Edge Design

The cutting edge shape affects how smoothly and efficiently the bit cuts sideways. In my experience, bits with sharp, well-defined edges reduce chatter and improve accuracy. Some even have coatings like titanium or black oxide for added durability.

Price vs. Quality

I learned that the cheapest bit isn’t always the best value. Investing a bit more in a quality side cutting drill bit means better performance and longer lifespan, which saves money in the long run.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Before buying, I always check user reviews and stick to reputable brands. Real user feedback helps me avoid poorly made bits and find ones that perform well under real conditions.

Additional Tips

  • Keep a variety of sizes on hand for different tasks.
  • Use proper drilling speed and lubrication to extend bit life.
  • Store bits properly to avoid damage.

I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect side cutting drill bit for your needs!

Author Profile

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Lance Murtagh
I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.

In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.