Step Drills

Step drills are specialised drill bits used for drilling holes in materials like metal, plastic and wood. They are designed to create multiple hole sizes with a single bit, making them versatile tools for various applications.

The cone-like shape with multiple stepped diameters is the distinctive feature of step drills. Each step has a progressively larger diameter than the previous one, allowing you to drill holes of different sizes without having to change over the drill bit.

Step drills are commonly used in metalworking and woodworking for tasks such as drilling holes for wires, cables, pipes or fittings. They are especially popular in electrical and plumbing work due to the ability to drill clean precise holes without the need for multiple different bits in different sizes.

Matching the right drill bit with the right material and thickness is important for step drills as well as using a generous amount of cutting fluid especially when working with metals to prolong the bit’s lifespan and maintain drilling efficiency.

Alpha’s step drills have a few outstanding features including laser-etched diameter markings and a self-starting point that removes the need for a pilot hole. There are two different coatings to choose from, Gold Series and ThunderMax.

Alpha Gold Series Step Drills have a TiN Coating which reduces heat and increases lubricity for extended life, as well as premium M2 HSS raw material. They outperform in steel, sheet metal and plastic, with 3x the life of market standard step drills.

Alpha ThunderMax Step Drills have a tempered black finish which is corrosion resistant and maximises lubricant hold, assisting chip flow and heat dissipation.

The step drills also come in different flute sizes with the option of a 2-Flute Straight Step Drill with a non-slip shank, a 2-Flute Spiral Step Drill with a non-slip shank and finally, a Quick Change Spiral Step Drill with a ¼” quick change shank.

Alpha has a diverse selection of drill bits which encompass a variety of different types and functionalities including jobber drill bits, reduced shank, hex shank, long drill bits, sets and kits, single and double-end panel drills, stub drills, morse taper shank drills, screw extractor bits and spot weld drills.