The Best Paddle Bits for Woodworking

Paddle bits (also known as spade drill bits) are essential to have if you are working with wood. These bits help drill larger diameter holes with the use of their wide, flat blades. They penetrate the wood and shave it out in a corkscrew-like motion to create precise holes. If you’re a woodworker, check out these paddle bit sets we recommend.

What to Consider in Paddle Bits

There are a variety of paddle bits available, so here are the specs you should hone in on when purchasing:

• Sharpness: The blades need to be extremely sharp to cut efficiently.
• Material: Consider if you will be cutting material besides wood.
• Safety: Some bits have safety features built in to prevent accidents.
• Sizing: Check the hex shank size to see if the bits are compatible with most machinery.

Best Overall: WORKPRO 13-Piece Spade Drill Bit Set

This paddle bit set is constructed from carbon steel that has been heat-treated for durability. Its heads are polished to be long-lasting. The cutting edge has side cutting spurs for effortless drilling. An excellent feature is the quick-change 1/4-inch hex shank (universal) that has safety features including a groove for reducing disconnection and slippage. The chip removal creates increased drilling speed.

Best Value: COMOWARE Spade Drill Bit Set- Paddle Flat Bits

This spade drill bit set is created with carbon steel construction and titanium coating for durability. The flat paddle design has a sharp cutting edge which leaves clean hole cuts. The spade tips are self-centering and evacuate the material as it cuts. These bits can drill most types of woods and soft metals. The set has six common sizes and fits the majority of brands on the market.

Most Versatile: Luckyway 14-Piece 1/4 Inch to 1-1/2 Inch Spade Drill Bits Set

This variety of sharp paddle bits allows for accurate drilling for most types of wood, fiberglass, PVC, and soft metals, so you can use this set for all of your projects. Get 14 sizes of bits ranging from 1/4 inch to 1 1/2 inches. The spade bits are made from carbon steel and are heat-treated and polished for durability and longevity. The bits are universal for brands in the market; the hex shank is 1/4 inch to fit into your drill easily.

Also Consider: Accusize Industrial Tools 3/8” 8 Pc Hss Tool Bit Set

A paddle bit set that comes in a nice wooden storage box, this set includes a variety of sizes for both right- and left-handed users. The bits are ideal for lathing. They’re made from M2 high-speed steel which retains hardness at high temperatures. These bits can be used for machining on most materials including wood, steel, brass, aluminum, plastic, and more.