Drill & Screwdriver Bits

Top Drill & Screwdriver Bits in the UK: A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Bits for Every Job

Why choosing the right drill and screwdriver bits matters

If you’ve ever stripped a screw or watched a drill bit snap mid-job, you know the frustration that comes from using the wrong bit. The right bit can mean the difference between a neat, fast job and wasted time and material. Think of bits as the shoes of your toolbox — pick the right fit and you’ll walk smoothly through the task; pick the wrong one and you’ll stumble. This guide walks you through popular options available in the UK market, highlights reputable sellers like Expert Electrical, and compares alternatives from well-known UK retailers so you can shop smarter.

Where to shop for bits in the UK

There are plenty of places to buy drill and screwdriver bits in the UK, from specialist electrical wholesalers to big-box DIY stores. Expert Electrical is one notable supplier featuring many commonly used bit ranges. Other go-to shops include Screwfix, Toolstation, B&Q, Wickes, and online marketplaces like Amazon UK. Each retailer has strengths — some focus on trade-grade durability, others on value-packed starter sets — so it pays to match the store to your needs.

Expert Electrical: standout products and why they appeal

Expert Electrical offers a practical selection for both DIYers and trade professionals, with brand names like Armeg and Ck well-represented. The range includes masonry, wood, auger and magnetised screwdriver bits. If you’re building out your toolkit, their offerings provide a solid balance of quality and price, especially for common sizes and multi-packs that get used up quickly on renovation projects.

Armeg Twister Impact Masonry 7mm Drill Bit

This masonry bit is aimed at impact drivers and hammer drills and comes in a size of roughly 0.28 inches, ideal for hanging medium-sized fixtures in brick or block. Masonry bits with a twisted flute and robust carbide tip are designed to chip away at concrete rather than cut it — that means more impact resistance. For anyone drilling anchor holes for shelving or wall brackets, a sharp masonry bit in this size is a go-to.

Ck Fast4 Wood Drill Bit 20mm

At about 0.79 inches, this wood bit from Ck is a great size for making clean holes for dowels or passing wires through studwork. Wood bits that are designed for speed often have a central point and spurs to keep the hole tidy, so your screws sit flush and splintering is minimised. If you’re fitting kitchen units or building furniture, having a 0.79-inch wood bit on hand saves time and gives cleaner results than a general-purpose bit.

Ck Auger Bit Standard 6x160mm

Auger bits are workhorses for deep holes in timber. Converted to imperial, that’s roughly 0.24 inches in diameter and 6.30 inches in length — a slim, long bit ideal for reaching through studs or boring deep holes for bolts. Auger bits cut aggressively and clear wood chips quickly, so they’re perfect when you need to drill long, straight holes without a lot of clogging. For electricians running cables or carpenters threading large fasteners, this shape is invaluable.

Armeg 4 Piece Twister Impact Masonry And Screwdriver Bit Set

Sets like this combine masonry and screwdriver bits, making them an excellent starter pack. The twister masonry bits are made for impact use, while the screwdriver bits are toughened to resist rolling or snapping. If you’re after versatility — maybe a weekend of drilling into brick followed by assembling cabinetry — a mixed four-piece set reduces trips to the shop and keeps your workflow steady.

Armeg Pz2 50mm Mag Bits Pack Of 6

Pozi-drive size 2 is a common screw head for furniture and fittings, and at roughly 2 inches long, these magnetised bits offer reach and grip. Magnetised tips keep fasteners from falling off the bit, which is a tiny convenience that saves big headaches on ladders or when working in tight spaces. Buying a six-pack means you can leave a bit in multiple drivers or replace a lost one without scrambling for a single spare.

Ck Fast4 Wood Drill Bit 25mm

This wood bit measures about 1.0 inch and is great for larger dowels or pipework clearance holes. When you need a clean, wide hole quickly, a purpose-made wood bit is much faster and cleaner than trying to ream out a smaller hole. For DIY plumbing runs or bespoke joinery, a 1.0-inch wood bit speeds things up and gives a better finish.

Armeg Ph2 50mm Mag Bits Pack Of 6

Phillips size 2 is another staple head in the toolbox, and this 2-inch magnetised pack is a smart buy for anyone who drives a lot of screws. The slightly longer length gives better reach into countersunk holes and tighter pockets. Magnetisation plus trade-tough steel helps prevent cam-out — when the driver slips out of the screw head — making screwdriving faster and less wearisome on your hands.

Ck Bit Set 25mm Set Of 33

A 33-piece set with 1.0-inch bits gives variety and depth to a toolkit. Sets like this usually include crossheads, flats, Torx and hex bits in common sizes, making them a compact solution for general repairs, furniture assembly, and small home improvements. When you don’t know exactly which fasteners you’ll meet on a project, a broad set reduces downtime hunting for the right bit.

Comparing Expert Electrical with other UK retailers

How do you pick between a specialist like Expert Electrical and big-name chains such as Screwfix, Toolstation, or B&Q? The answer often comes down to purpose. If you’re a pro needing bulk, trade-focused options, Screwfix and Toolstation often cater to heavy use with trade accounts and wide stock. B&Q and Wickes target homeowners with easy-to-understand packs and frequent promotions. Amazon UK can undercut prices and provide same-day convenience for urgent bits, but quality ranges wildly. If you want curated, trade-grade selections with familiar brands (Armeg, Ck), a specialist supplier is a safe bet.

What to look for when buying bits

Not all bits are created equal. Consider material (HSS, carbide tips), tip geometry (brad point for wood, carbide for masonry), shank type (round vs. hex for quick-change), and whether you need magnetisation. Ask yourself: will I be using an impact driver or a standard drill? Impact-rated bits typically have thicker shanks and reinforced tips. For occasional projects, a mixed 33-piece set might be enough, but if you rely on tools every day, invest in impact-rated, branded bits for durability.

Bit types explained in plain language

Here’s a quick cheat sheet. Masonry bits: built for brick and concrete; they chip away with a carbide tip. Wood bits: come with a point and spurs for clean holes. Auger bits: long and spiraled to bore deep holes in timber. Screwdriver bits: come in many head styles (Phillips, Pozidriv, Torx) and lengths; magnetised versions help with one-handed work. Higher quality is worth it when you’re doing repetitive or precision tasks, much like choosing a chef’s knife over a generic kitchen blade.

Practical tips for maintaining your bits

Keep bits sharp and dry, and store them in a proper case. Dull bits produce heat and tear material instead of cutting it, which shortens life and risks breakage. For metalwork, use cutting oil; for deep wood holes, pull the bit out occasionally to clear chips. If you’re using an impact driver, only use impact-rated bits — non-impact bits can shatter. Think of maintenance as preventative care: a little attention now saves you from having to buy replacements later.

Best sets for different types of users

If you’re a weekend DIYer, a 33-piece mixed set with a few wood and masonry options will cover most jobs. For those doing home renovations, include a handful of long, magnetised Phillips and Pozidriv bits (about 2 inches long) and a selection of masonry bits around 0.28 to 1.0 inches. Tradespeople should look for impact-rated sets and specialist auger or Forstner bits for timber work. Match your set to the jobs you do most often — there’s no point carrying a twelve-piece set full of odd sizes you never use.

Eco considerations and value

Buying quality bits can be more eco-friendly than constantly replacing cheap ones. Sturdy bits save resources because you replace less often. Also consider sets packaged in recyclable cases or from brands with repair and replacement programs. Value isn’t only about the lowest price tag; it’s about lifetime cost per use. A pricier bit that lasts five times longer often offers better value in the long run.

Quick checklist before you buy

Before clicking buy, run through these quick checks: confirm compatibility with your driver or drill (shank type), check if the bits are rated for impact use, look for magnetised tips if you need one-handed fastening, and prioritise standard, commonly used sizes so replacements are easy to find. If you’re uncertain, aim for a reputable brand and a well-reviewed set — it reduces the chance of nasty surprises when you start the job.

Final thoughts on building a reliable bit collection

Bits are small but mighty parts of your toolkit. With a thoughtful selection that includes durable masonry bits, wood bits in common widths, long auger bits, and packs of magnetised screwdriving bits in Phillips and Pozidriv sizes, you’ll be ready for most household projects. Whether you buy from a specialist supplier like Expert Electrical or a mainstream retailer, focus on impact-rated options for heavy work and mixed sets for general maintenance. Over time, you’ll build a lean, efficient collection that saves time, money, and frustration.

Conclusion: Invest in a few quality bits, keep them sharp and organised, and your projects will finish cleaner and faster. Whether hanging a shelf, running cables, or assembling a flat-pack, the right bit makes the job feel easier — like switching from a butter knife to a chef’s knife in the kitchen.