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What SDS drills are available?

SDS drill bits aren’t compatible with ordinary drills due to their unique design, and only SDS drills are designed to fully house an SDS drill bit. Depending on the type of SDS drill bit you need for the job, you will require one of two SDS drills:

SDS Plus drills – Compact and versatile, these drills accept SDS Plus bits (10mm shank) and are widely used for medium-duty masonry applications.

SDS Max drills – Larger, more powerful drills that accept SDS Max bits (18mm shank). These machines are designed for heavy-duty drilling and chiselling where maximum impact energy is required.

These are also available as both corded and cordless options. Cordless SDS drills are often used in hard to reach areas, where a corded drill might struggle. A corded SDS drill, however, offers more power than a cordless SDS drill and are often used for more heavy-duty jobs. They also allow for more consistent drilling, unlike cordless SDS drills which require battery changes and charging.

Using SDS drills safely

SDS drills deliver significantly more power than conventional drills. Operating the drill correctly is essential to protect both the operator and the equipment from damage and harm. What makes SDS drill safety imperative is the jobs they are required for. With heavy construction materials, there is more room for risk, and additional factors to consider to keep you safe when using the drill:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always wear safety glasses to protect against flying debris.

Hearing protection is recommended due to the high noise levels generated by the hammer action.

Use anti-vibration gloves or take regular breaks during extended operation to minimise hand–arm vibration damage.

Correct drill settings

Set the drill to rotary hammer-drill mode when drilling into masonry or concrete.

Use hammer-only mode for demolition or surface removal with chiselling bits.

Avoid running the tool in rotary-only mode with SDS bits, as this prevents the mechanism from engaging properly.

Controlled operation

Apply steady, consistent pressure. Forcing the drill reduces efficiency, overheats the bit, and risks damaging both the tool and material.

Maintain a firm grip with both hands to manage torque reaction and prevent the drill from spinning in your grip, especially with larger SDS Max drills.

Ensure the drill is aligned squarely with the work surface to prevent bit bending or breakage.

Site awareness

Before drilling, confirm the location of hidden pipes, electrical conduits, or reinforcement to avoid accidental damage.

Use dust extraction attachments or a vacuum system where possible. A lot of dust is created when drilling into concrete and masonry, which can be hazardous if breathed in.

Tool condition

Inspect the drill chuck and bit for wear or damage before use. Replace worn or chipped bits promptly to maintain precision and job efficiency.

Carbide Cross Head Tip Double Flute SDS Plus Drill Bit

SDS Plus Drill Bit Carbide Single Tip

The Ultimate Buying Guide to SDS Drill Bits

What’s the Difference Between SDS Plus and SDS Max Bits?

Drill Bits Torque & Rigidity

5/8″ X 39″ SDS Plus Drill Hammer Bit Carbide Tipped

5/8″ X 18″ 2-Cutter SDS-Plus Hammer Drill Bit

5/8″ X 24″ SDS-Plus Hammer Bit Drill Bit

SDS PLUS 4-Cutter Drill Bit with Solid Head Carbide