Spade Drill Bits
Spade bits bore fast, rough holes in wood for cable and pipe runs. Tru-Cut and ITM bits in standard 6" and long 16" lengths, 1/4" to 1-1/2" diameters, with many listed for electricians.
Choosing a spade bit
Spade bits are the quick way through framing when a clean, finished hole does not matter. Flat blade, centre point, and a lot of diameters. This range splits by length: standard bits at 6" (plus some at 6-1/2") and long bits at 16". Sizes run from 1/4" to 1-1/2", from both Tru-Cut and ITM, and several are listed under Electricians.
Drilling tips
Run spade bits at a higher speed with light, steady pressure. Start slowly to seat the centre point, then speed up. Back the bit out to clear chips in deeper holes. To stop splintering, drill until the point just shows, then finish from the other side, or clamp a scrap block behind the work.
Spade bits cut wood. Keep them out of nails and screws. For deep, cleaner holes, a ship auger is the better tool.
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Common questions
What lengths do spade bits come in?
Standard bits are 6" or 6-1/2" long, and long bits are 16". Diameters across the range run from 1/4" to 1-1/2".
Spade bit or ship auger?
Spade bits are the quick choice for rough holes. A ship auger pulls itself through, clears chips better and suits deeper holes, but needs a slower, higher-torque drill.
Which brands are in this collection?
Tru-Cut and ITM. Both are sold here in the standard 6" and long 16" series, and the ITM bits are the ones listed for electricians.
Know-how for Spade Drill Bits
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Buying for a crew?
Call 833-438-6657, 8 AM to 4 PM MST. We know the parts, not just the part numbers.