Use brad-point or self-centering drill bits

Replace standard twist drill bits with brad-point bits (for wood and soft materials) or split-point bits (for metal and hard materials). Brad-point bits have a sharp center spur that digs into the surface before the cutting flutes engage, anchoring the bit exactly on your mark. Split-point (also called self-centering) bits have a modified 135-degree tip geometry that eliminates the chisel edge found on standard 118-degree bits, allowing them to start cutting immediately without walking.

Why It Works

Standard twist drill bits have a blunt chisel edge at the center of the tip that does not cut -- it pushes material aside. On hard surfaces, this chisel edge causes the bit to skate before the outer cutting edges can engage. Brad-point bits eliminate this by placing a sharp spike at the center. Split-point bits grind the chisel edge into additional cutting edges, so the entire tip cuts from the first rotation.

Tips

• Brad-point bits are designed for wood, plywood, MDF, and soft plastics -- do not use them on metal as the center spur can break
• Split-point 135-degree bits (like those from Bosch, DeWalt, or Milwaukee) are the professional standard for drilling metal without center punching
• Cobalt split-point bits (M35 or M42 grade) handle stainless steel and hardened steel far better than standard HSS
• For tile and porcelain, use carbide-tipped spear-point bits -- they have a similar self-centering geometry designed for brittle materials
• Self-centering bits cost 20-40% more than standard twist bits but dramatically reduce wandering on every hole
• Common mistake: using brad-point bits in metal -- the center spur is not designed for hard materials and will dull or snap