What Are SDS Drills Bits? Choosing the Right Drill & Bit, A Practical Guide!

03 December 2025
What Are SDS Drills Bits? Choosing the Right Drill & Bit, A Practical Guide!
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Heavy-duty drilling made simple

Drilling into concrete, brick, or stone with a standard drill can be really tough. That’s where SDS drill bits come in. They’re purpose-built for masonry and heavy-duty construction tasks, offering faster drilling, more stability, and longer service life. Whether you’re working on a large commercial build or hanging shelves at home, SDS technology gives you the power and precision you need.

Explore ICCONS’ full range of SDS drills and bits built for Australian construction standards.

What is an SDS Drill Bit?

SDS stands for Slotted Drive System. An SDS masonry drill bit is designed specifically for use with SDS drills. The shank locks into the chuck, ensuring that every bit of energy from the drill is transferred to the tip. Most SDS bits are tipped with tungsten carbide, a material tough enough to cut through concrete and masonry without wearing down too quickly.

Unlike standard drills that rely on friction to hold a bit in place, SDS drills use a special shank that locks securely into the chuck. This design allows the drill bit to move back and forth with the hammer action while still rotating, which means more energy is delivered directly to the tip.

Compared to regular drill bits, SDS bits last longer, drill faster, and handle reinforced concrete more effectively. This makes them an essential tool for both DIY users tackling home projects and tradespeople working on demanding sites.

Types of SDS Drill bits

There are two main types of SDS drill bits:

ICCONS’ German-made Raptor® range and Heller drill bits are designed with optimised cutting edges and dust removal features to keep drilling smooth, accurate, and efficient.

In short, SDS drills make tough jobs easier by increasing power transfer and reducing bit slippage.

How to Insert an SDS Drill Bit

Changing bits on an SDS drill is quick and simple:

  1. Check compatibility: Make sure your drill matches the bit type (SDS Plus or SDS Max).
  2. Insert the bit: Slide the bit into the chuck until it clicks into place.
  3. Secure it: Tug the bit gently to confirm it’s locked.

Tip: Always clean your bits after use and store them properly. A well-maintained bit lasts longer and performs better.

Applications of SDS Drill Bits

SDS drill bits are a must-have for jobs where ordinary drills just don’t cut it. Drilling deep, precise anchor holes in concrete and in masonry. From major construction projects to home renovations, SDS drills provide the power and reliability.

Choosing the Right SDS Drill Bit

Choosing the right bit depends on your project:

  • 2-cutter: Quick drilling, best for unreinforced concrete.
  • 3 & 4-cutter: Last longer and handle reinforced concrete better.
  • Solid head: The toughest option, ideal for drilling through rebar.

Browse ICCONS SDS Drill Bits by size and type to find the right match for your project.

ICCONS SDS Specialty Products

Heller Rebar Breaker (SDS Plus)

Reinforced concrete often hides steel reinforcement bars (rebar), which can damage or shorten the life of your drill bits. The Heller Rebar Breaker is designed to tackle rebar directly, saving your carbide bits from unnecessary wear.

  •  Available in 12mm to 35mm diameters.
  •  Protects your bits from damage when hitting steel.
  •  Made from a single piece of steel for maximum strength.


ICCONS Heller Set-Safe Dust Extraction Drill Bits

Concrete dust isn’t just messy, it’s harmful. ICCONS’ Dustless Drilling range reduces dust by up to 98% at the point of impact, keeping your workspace safer and cleaner. The Heller Duster Expert is perfect for indoor or dust-sensitive jobs.

  • Improves OH&S by reducing silica dust exposure.
  • Saves time by combining drilling and hole cleaning in one step.
  • Keeps holes clean, improving anchor performance.


ICCONS Heller Chisels SDS Chisels

When it comes to demolition, chisels are essential. ICCONS offers a wide range of chisels in both SDS Plus and SDS Max:


SDS Drill Bit Maintenance and Care

Looking after your SDS drill bits ensures they perform well and last longer:

  •  Clean after each use to remove dust and debris.
  •  Check wear markers on ICCONS Raptor® bits to know when it’s time for a replacement.
  •  Store in a dry, organised case to avoid damage.

 Good maintenance not only saves money but also guarantees reliable, safe installations.

Built for Australian Construction

ICCONS provides a complete range of SDS drill bits, chisels, and accessories, all designed for the demands of Australian job sites. With fast delivery and expert support, we’re here to help you get the job done right.

Shop SDS Drill Bits at ICCONS.

SDS Plus vs SDS Max: Which One Do You Need?

Feature SDS Plus SDS Max
Shank Diameter~10mm~18mm
Bit Size Range4mm–26mm12mm–50mm
# of Elongated Slots22
# Groves & Type2 Keying Groves3 Wedged Groves
ApplicationsFor optimal drill size for all day, everyday drilling 4mm-20mm drill sizes.For optimal drill size for all day, everyday drilling 20mm-50mm drill sizes.
Tool SizeSDS Plus Chuck (Consider Drilling machine size for application)SDS Max Chuck (Consider Drilling machine size for application)
PerformanceQuick drilling, less fatigueMaximum power for large holes and chiseling

Takeaways and Benefits of SDS Drill Bits

Discover how SDS drills bits make drilling into concrete, brick, and stone faster and more precise. This guide explains the difference between SDS Plus and SDS Max, how to choose the right bit for your application, and simple maintenance tips to keep your tools performing at their best. Explore ICCONS’ full range of SDS drill bits, dust extraction solutions, chisels, and rebar breakers, engineered for durability, safety, and efficiency on Australian job sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between SDS Plus and SDS Max drills?
SDS Plus bits (10mm shank, 2 grooves) available sizes 4mm–26mm and suit SDS-compatible drill machines with SDS chuck, while SDS Max bits (18mm shank, 3 grooves) are available in sizes 12mm–50mm and suit SDS Max-compatible drill machines with SDS Max chuck.
 
2. Can I use SDS drill bits in a regular drill machine with a three jaw chuck?
No. SDS bits require an SDS-compatible drill with a SDS chuck.
 
3. How do I know which SDS drill bit size to use?
Always check the anchor or fastener requirements for correct hole size.
 
4. What materials can SDS drill bits handle?
Concrete, masonry, brick, stone and reinforced concrete with higher-grade cutters.
 
5. How should I maintain my SDS bits?
Clean, monitor wear, and store properly for best results.