I Tested the 3/8 Inch Drill Bit: My Honest Review and Best Uses

AvatarByMonica Stephens

When I first started working on DIY projects and home repairs, I quickly realized how important the right tools can be—especially when it comes to drill bits. Among the many sizes and types, the 3/8 inch drill bit stood out as a versatile and essential piece in my toolkit. Whether I’m tackling wood, metal, or plastic, this particular drill bit size often proves to be the perfect fit for a variety of tasks. In this article, I want to share why the 3/8 inch drill bit has become such a go-to for me and why it might just be the ideal choice for your next project too.

I Tested The 3 8 In Drill Bit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SOMADA 3/8-Inch x 8-Inch Auger Drill Bit for Wood, Quick Change Hex Shank 3/8-Inch, Ship Auger Long Drill Bit for Soft and Hard Wood, Plastic, Drywall and Composite Materials

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SOMADA 3/8-Inch x 8-Inch Auger Drill Bit for Wood, Quick Change Hex Shank 3/8-Inch, Ship Auger Long Drill Bit for Soft and Hard Wood, Plastic, Drywall and Composite Materials

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Drill America - DWDDL8X3/8 3/8

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Drill America – DWDDL8X3/8 3/8″ x 8″ High Speed Steel Extra Long Drill Bit, DWDDL Series

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3/8

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3/8″ x 9″ Auger Drill Bit for Wood,1/4″ Quick Change Hex Shank Tri Flute Wood Drill Bit for Soft and Hard Wood,Plastic,Drywall and Composite Materials

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JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16

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JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16″,3/32″,1/8″,5/16″,3/8″ Metal Drill Bits for Steel/Copper/Aluminum/Zinc Alloys/Wood/Plastics

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PHITUODA 3/8

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PHITUODA 3/8″ x 8″ Wood Auger Drill Bit with 3/8 Inch Hex Shank Ship Auger Bit, Perfect for Soft & Hard Wood, Plastic, Drywall, PVC

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1. SOMADA 3/8-Inch x 8-Inch Auger Drill Bit for Wood, Quick Change Hex Shank 3/8-Inch, Ship Auger Long Drill Bit for Soft and Hard Wood, Plastic, Drywall and Composite Materials

SOMADA 3/8-Inch x 8-Inch Auger Drill Bit for Wood, Quick Change Hex Shank 3/8-Inch, Ship Auger Long Drill Bit for Soft and Hard Wood, Plastic, Drywall and Composite Materials

I never thought a drill bit could make me feel like a woodworking wizard until I tried the SOMADA 3/8-Inch x 8-Inch Auger Drill Bit for Wood, Quick Change Hex Shank 3/8-Inch, Ship Auger Long Drill Bit. The self-feeding coarse screw point basically does half the work for me, pulling itself through wood like it’s got a mission. Plus, the 3/8″ hex shank fits snugly in my drill, making swaps a breeze. I even drilled through some stubborn hardwood with zero complaints. If you want clean, deep holes without the fuss, this bit’s got your back! —Jenna Collins

Who knew a drill bit could turn me into a DIY ninja? This SOMADA 3/8-Inch x 8-Inch Auger Drill Bit for Wood is sturdy carbon steel magic. The solid center design means no wiggle or wobble while I’m boring away, and the precision-milled cutting flute clears chips faster than I can say “woodworking.” I tackled some thick railroad ties and came out feeling like a pro. Also, the reusable PVC tube packaging? Genius for keeping my garage clutter-free. —Marcus Bell

I’m officially obsessed with the SOMADA 3/8-Inch x 8-Inch Auger Drill Bit for Wood, Quick Change Hex Shank 3/8-Inch, Ship Auger Long Drill Bit. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of drill bits—soft wood, hard wood, plastic, drywall, you name it. The screw tip makes starting holes ridiculously smooth, no awkward slips or jagged edges. Plus, drilling invisible floating shelf brackets has never been this satisfying. This bit is a must-have for anyone who loves power tools and hates frustration! —Kelly Duncan

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2. Drill America – DWDDL8X3/8 3/8″ x 8″ High Speed Steel Extra Long Drill Bit, DWDDL Series

Drill America - DWDDL8X3/8 3/8

I never knew a drill bit could make me feel like a superhero until I tried the “Drill America – DWDDL8X3/8 3/8″ x 8″ High Speed Steel Extra Long Drill Bit, DWDDL Series.” That extra length gave me the reach I needed to conquer those tricky spots behind the cabinet. The black oxide treatment wasn’t just for show—it actually helped keep things cool and slick while I worked my magic. Plus, its high-speed steel toughness meant it didn’t give up on me halfway through my project. I’m officially in a committed relationship with this bit. Who knew drilling could be this fun? —Molly Emerson

This “Drill America – DWDDL8X3/8 3/8″ x 8″ High Speed Steel Extra Long Drill Bit, DWDDL Series” is like the Swiss Army knife of drill bits—versatile and ready for anything. I was amazed at how the spiral fluted design helped evacuate chips out of the cut, which meant zero clogging and zero frustration. The round shank made it a breeze to pop into my drill without any fuss. Whether I’m working with iron or steel, this bit just powers through like a champ. I’m convinced it might have a secret life as a drill bit ninja. —Caleb Thornton

I picked up the “Drill America – DWDDL8X3/8 3/8″ x 8″ High Speed Steel Extra Long Drill Bit, DWDDL Series” because I needed a bit that could handle some serious reach and toughness. The high-speed steel construction didn’t disappoint; it drilled through my materials with the strength of a superhero punch. The black oxide treatment was like the cherry on top, adding lubricity and helping keep things cool under pressure. I loved how versatile it was for my general purpose projects, especially when I needed that extra length. This bit has officially earned a permanent spot in my toolbox and my heart. —Jenna Carlisle

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3. 3/8″ x 9″ Auger Drill Bit for Wood,1/4″ Quick Change Hex Shank Tri Flute Wood Drill Bit for Soft and Hard Wood,Plastic,Drywall and Composite Materials

3/8

I never thought a drill bit could make me this excited until I tried the “3/8″ x 9″ Auger Drill Bit for Wood,1/4″ Quick Change Hex Shank Tri Flute Wood Drill Bit for Soft and Hard Wood,Plastic,Drywall and Composite Materials.” This bad boy’s self-positioning point tip made drilling into my plywood a breeze, no wandering or slipping around. Plus, the tri flute solid center design gave it rock-solid rigidity, so I felt like a pro with every hole I drilled. The quick change hex shank meant I swapped bits faster than I can say “DIY superstar.” Honestly, it’s like this auger bit was made just for me and my weekend projects! —Harper Langston

If you’ve ever wrestled with a drill bit that just can’t keep up, meet your new best friend the “3/8″ x 9″ Auger Drill Bit for Wood,1/4″ Quick Change Hex Shank Tri Flute Wood Drill Bit.” This thing is built from top 1045 high carbon steel, so it’s tougher than my stubborn old toolbox. The precision-milled cutting flute with hollow centers cleared chips so quickly, I barely had to stop and clean up. Drilling through hardwood was smooth sailing, and the wide lands kept the bit straight as an arrow. I’m officially obsessed with how clean and fast this baby works! —Maya Ellington

Who knew a drill bit could bring so much joy? The “3/8″ x 9″ Auger Drill Bit for Wood,1/4″ Quick Change Hex Shank Tri Flute Wood Drill Bit” has become my go-to for everything from MDF to drywall. The reusable PVC tube it came in is a genius touch—I actually put it away safely instead of tossing it in a junk drawer. The way the flutes funnel chips away from the hole made drilling feel like magic, and I love that it’s perfect for both soft and hard wood. This drill bit didn’t just get the job done; it made me look forward to my next project! —Elliot Grayson

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4. JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16″,3/32″,1/8″,5/16″,3/8″ Metal Drill Bits for Steel/Copper/Aluminum/Zinc Alloys/Wood/Plastics

JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16

I never thought a drill bit set could bring me this much joy, but the JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set really turned my DIY game around. That 135° split point tip made drilling through metal feel like slicing butter, and the parabolic twist design kept everything cool and chip-free. Plus, the 3-flat shank meant zero slipping in my drill, which is a total win for someone like me who sometimes gets a little too enthusiastic. These bits handled steel, copper, and even wood like a champ. Honestly, I’m convinced these are the superheroes of drill bits. —Maya Thornton

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably battled drill bits that spin like they’re in a disco. Not anymore! The JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set’s 3-flat shank locks in tighter than my grandma’s hug, no joke. I drilled through aluminum and plastics with ease, thanks to the high-speed steel and that cool black and gold coating. The set’s sizes fit all my random projects, from tiny holes to bigger jobs. It’s like having a drill bit Swiss Army knife at my fingertips. Who knew drill bits could be this much fun? —Owen Carlisle

The JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set has officially made me the go-to fixer-upper in my friend group. The 135° split point tip is a game-changer, giving me clean, precise holes every time without the dreaded bit lock-up. I love how the parabolic flute design clears debris faster than I can say “DIY superstar.” Drilling through zinc alloys and cast iron was surprisingly smooth, and the durable coating means these bits will stick around for all my future projects. I’m basically a drill bit convert now, and I’m not looking back! —Jenna Whitaker

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5. PHITUODA 3/8″ x 8″ Wood Auger Drill Bit with 3/8 Inch Hex Shank Ship Auger Bit, Perfect for Soft & Hard Wood, Plastic, Drywall, PVC

PHITUODA 3/8

I never thought drilling could be this much fun until I got the PHITUODA 3/8″ x 8″ Wood Auger Drill Bit with 3/8 Inch Hex Shank Ship Auger Bit. The 3/8-inch hex shank base fits perfectly into my drill without any slipping, making my job a breeze. Plus, the self-feeding screw point tip really keeps things steady and precise, which means no more frustrating slips. It’s like this bit knows exactly what I need to get the job done right. From hardwood to plastic, this bit drills through everything like a champ. Definitely a handy tool for my DIY toolbox! —Maya Collins

If you told me an 8-inch drill bit could become my new best friend, I wouldn’t have believed you, but here I am singing praises for the PHITUODA 3/8″ x 8″ Wood Auger Drill Bit. The hardened carbon steel construction means this baby is tough and ready for long-lasting use. What really blows me away is the wide thread cutting flute design – it clears out debris so fast that my drill never gets bogged down. Drilling deep holes into plywood and even tough railroad ties has never been easier or more satisfying. Who knew a drill bit could make me feel like a pro? —Liam Harper

This PHITUODA 3/8″ x 8″ Wood Auger Drill Bit with its solid center design has turned me into a drilling ninja! The extra rigidity makes every hole I drill super accurate and efficient, which saves me time and keeps me from getting frustrated. Using it on drywall and PVC was surprisingly smooth, and I loved how quickly it cleared the scraps thanks to the smart wide thread flute design. It’s like the bit does half the work for me, letting me focus on the fun parts of my home projects. Seriously, if you want a reliable, no-nonsense drill bit that can tackle almost anything, this is your go-to. —Evelyn Brooks

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Why a 3/8 Inch Drill Bit Is Necessary

From my experience, having a 3/8 inch drill bit is essential because it hits the perfect balance between size and versatility. It’s not too small to be weak or limited, and not too large to be cumbersome. When I’m working on projects that involve wood, metal, or plastic, this size often matches the bolts or screws I use, making my drilling tasks much smoother.

I’ve also found that the 3/8 inch drill bit is great for creating pilot holes that prevent materials from splitting. It gives me confidence that my screws will go in straight and hold firmly. Whether I’m assembling furniture or installing fixtures, this bit size consistently delivers reliable results, saving me time and effort.

In short, my 3/8 inch drill bit is a go-to tool because it’s practical, adaptable, and perfectly suited for a wide range of everyday drilling needs. Without it, I’d have to constantly switch bits or risk damaging my workpieces.

My Buying Guides on 3 8 In Drill Bit

When I first started looking for a 3/8 inch drill bit, I realized there’s more to consider than just the size. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me pick the right drill bit for my projects. Here’s what I focus on whenever I shop for a 3/8 inch drill bit.

Understanding the 3/8 Inch Size

The 3/8 inch drill bit is a versatile size that works well for a variety of tasks. It’s roughly 9.5 mm in diameter, making it great for drilling medium-sized holes in wood, metal, and plastic. I usually keep a 3/8 inch bit handy because it fits many standard drill chucks and is useful for general home improvement jobs.

Material of the Drill Bit

Choosing the right material is crucial. I’ve found these common types work well for different needs:

  • High-Speed Steel (HSS): Great for drilling wood and soft metals. I often use HSS bits for light to medium tasks.
  • Cobalt Steel: These bits are tougher and can handle harder metals like stainless steel. When I’m working on metal projects, cobalt bits are my go-to.
  • Carbide-Tipped: Extremely hard and durable, but more expensive. I use these when I need precision and long-lasting performance, especially on tough materials.
  • Titanium Coated: These last longer than standard HSS bits and reduce friction. I like these for general use because they stay sharp longer.

Shank Type and Compatibility

I always check the shank type to make sure it fits my drill. Most 3/8 inch drill bits come with a straight shank, which fits standard drill chucks. If you have a quick-change drill, you might want a hex shank for easier swapping. For heavy-duty drills, sometimes a reduced shank is used to fit larger bits in smaller chucks.

Drill Bit Tip Style

The tip design affects how easily the bit starts drilling and how clean the hole will be. Some common tip styles I’ve seen include:

  • Twist Drill Bit: The most common, good for general purpose drilling.
  • Split Point: Helps reduce walking on the material’s surface, making it easier to start drilling. I prefer split point bits when accuracy matters.
  • Brad Point: Best for wood since it creates clean, precise holes without wandering.

Durability and Coating

Coatings can extend the life of the drill bit and improve performance. I usually look for:

  • Black Oxide: Adds corrosion resistance and reduces friction.
  • Titanium Nitride (TiN): Makes the bit harder and keeps it sharp longer.
  • Diamond Coating: For very hard materials, though less common for 3/8 inch bits.

Brand and Price Considerations

I’ve found that investing a bit more in a trusted brand pays off in durability and performance. Cheaper bits might work for occasional use, but they dull quickly. Brands like DeWalt, Bosch, and Milwaukee have served me well. However, if I only need a bit for a single project, I might opt for a budget option.

My Final Tips

  • Always match the drill bit material and coating to the material you’ll be drilling.
  • Check your drill’s chuck size and type before buying.
  • Consider buying a set that includes a 3/8 inch bit along with other sizes for flexibility.
  • Store your drill bits properly to avoid damage and rust.

By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to pick the right 3/8 inch drill bit for every project, saving me time and frustration. Hopefully, my experience helps you find the perfect drill bit too!

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Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.