Not all drill bits have a smooth shank. While they all have a circular cross-section, some of them have a threaded shank. Known as threaded shank drill bits, they are used to create holes in objects and materials. Threaded shank drill bits, however, feature a unique design that makes them particularly popular for aerospace-related applications.
What Are Threaded Shank Drill Bits?
Threaded shank drill bits are exactly what they sound like: drill bits with a threaded shank. Drill bits consist of several parts. The top part has the cross-section that, when pressed against an object or material, will create a hole as it spins.
Below the cross-section is the shank. The shank is the part of a drill bit that connects to the drill. While some drill bits have a smooth shank, others have a threaded shank (see image above).
Advantages of Threaded Shank Drill Bits
Why should you choose a threaded drill bit over a traditional bit with a smooth shank? With their ability to screw into drills, they allow for greater precision when drilling holes.
Traditional drill bits are typically connected to drills via a chuck. You loosen or open the chuck, place the bit inside, and then tighten or close the chuck. Threaded shank drill bits, on the other hand, are screwed into drills. They are designed for use with specialty drills that feature threading rather than a chuck. By screwing a threaded shank drill bit into a drill, you can rest assured knowing that it will drill straight into objects and materials.
Threaded shank drill bits are less likely to wobble than traditional bits. Wobbling occurs when a drill bit sways to the side. Threaded shank drill bits prevent wobbling to ensure straight and even holes.
You can easily swap out threaded shank drill bits. Just turn them counterclockwise to release them from the drill. To install a new threaded bit, turn it clockwise into the drill’s threaded bit holder.
Common Features of Threaded Shank Drill Bits
All threaded shank drill bits have exterior threading. This is essentially what distinguishes them from traditional drill bits with a smooth shank. The exterior threading allows them to connect to specialized drills.
Because they are used in high-torque applications, such as automotive and aerospace drilling, threaded shank drill bits are strong. They are made of durable materials that can withstand extreme physical stress, such as high-speed steel (HSS) and cobalt.
