Spade Bit

Spade Bits Built to Cut Clean, Bore Fast, and Last Long

Spade bits are flat-bladed drill bits made for rough boring in wood. They come in sizes ranging from 1/4" to 1-1/2". The wide blade and center point guide the bit through the workpiece.

Built with a hex shank, spade bits stay secure in the chuck and resist slipping. These bits are a staple for carpenters, electricians, and HVAC crews who need quick, accurate holes with minimal effort.

Common Uses & Best Applications

Spade bits are best for drilling holes in wood, plywood, and some plastics. They work well for rough-in jobs like installing pipes, running wires, or building framing. Because they remove large amounts of material fast, spade bits are ideal for tasks that don’t require clean edges or detailed precision.

Use them for:

• Boring holes through studs for wiring
• Drilling through floor joists for plumbing
• Making openings for door hardware and latches

Best Users for Spade Bits

Spade bits meet the needs of tradespeople and DIYers who value speed and simplicity. Electricians often use them to route conduit or low-voltage cable. Plumbers use them to run PEX or copper pipe. General contractors keep them for framing and carpentry work. Weekend woodworkers reach for them when drilling wide holes in construction lumber or plywood.

What to Consider When Buying a Spade Bit 

To get the right bit for the job, here are a few key features to keep in mind: 

• Size: Spade bits come in a range of diameters, usually from 1/4" to 1-1/2". Choose based on the hole size you need. 
• Length: Most bits are 6" long, but extended lengths (12" or 16") are available for deeper holes. 
• Shank Design: Look for a 1/4" hex shank if you're using a quick-change chuck or impact driver. 
• Material and Coating: High-carbon steel is common, while coated bits may reduce wear and friction during use. 

Spade Bit Options 

• Standard Spade Bits: Basic flat-blade design made for general-purpose drilling in wood. 
• Self-Feeding Spade Bits: Include a threaded tip that pulls the bit through the material, requiring less pressure. 
• Spade Bits with Spur and Reamer Tips: Score the wood before cutting for a cleaner hole and reduced splintering. 

Spade Bit Tips

• Use a drill with high torque for better control.
• Clamp the workpiece when drilling near edges to reduce tear-out.
• If drilling all the way through, stop before the tip exits, flip the workpiece, and finish from the other side to leave a cleaner edge.
• Keep pressure steady—too much force can cause splintering.
• Use an extension if you need deeper bore holes.

Engineered for Tough Jobs

Benchmark Abrasives spade bits are built to handle demanding tasks. With heat-treated steel and precision-ground tips, they drill clean, fast, and straight. Whether you're working on renovations, installations, or repairs, these bits stay sharp and cut true.

Fast Shipping and Easy Returns 

We offer fast shipping on all orders and free shipping on purchases over $100. If you're not happy with your product, returns are simple—just reach out by email, phone, or chat, and we’ll get you set up with return info and an RGA. 

Looking for more drilling and cutting solutions? Browse all Cutting Tools from Benchmark Abrasives.