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How to use an SDS drill

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In short

Fit a clean, lightly greased SDS bit until it clicks, choose rotary hammer mode for masonry, mark the hole, start slowly and then let the hammer do the work with light steady pressure. Pull the bit back now and then to clear dust. Wear eye and hearing protection, control dust and check for cables and pipes first.

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An SDS drill makes concrete and engineering brick feel like soft wood, but it behaves differently from a combi drill. The bit slides in the chuck, the hammer works best with light pressure and the tool can twist hard if the bit jams. This guide walks through each step, from fitting bits to finishing a clean hole, so your first holes are neat and safe.

Before you start

Check the wall with a detector for cables, pipes and metal. In UK homes, cables usually run vertically or horizontally from sockets and switches, so avoid those zones. Read the manual for your drill, fit the side handle and set its depth rod if your drill has one.

Choose the right bit diameter for your wall plug or anchor; see which drill bit for wall plugs. Wear safety glasses, hearing protection and a suitable dust mask, as concrete and brick dust contains silica.

Note:If your drill does not have a safety clutch, a jammed bit can twist the tool violently. Always use the side handle and keep a firm two handed grip.

Fitting and greasing SDS bits

Wipe the shank clean and put a small dab of SDS grease on the grooves. Pull back the chuck collar on most drills, push the bit in and turn it slightly until it drops and locks. Tug it to check it is held. The bit should slide in and out a little; that is normal and is how the hammer reaches it.

Grease reduces wear on the chuck and the bit. Do not overdo it, as excess grease picks up dust. See SDS drill bits explained for bit types.

  • RoundFits: keyless chuck
  • Hex 6.35 mmFits: impact driver
  • SDS plusFits: SDS plus drill
  • SDS maxFits: SDS max breaker
Shank ends and the tools that take them.

Drilling a clean hole step by step

Follow these steps for a typical anchor hole in brick or concrete.

  1. 1

    Mark the hole and, on tiles or smooth render, put masking tape over the mark.

  2. 2

    Select rotary hammer mode. For tiles, start in rotary only, then switch to hammer once through the glaze.

  3. 3

    Hold the bit at right angles to the wall and start the trigger slowly to seat the tip.

  4. 4

    Increase speed and use light, steady pressure. Let the hammer do the work.

  5. 5

    Every few centimetres, pull the bit part way out with the drill running to clear dust.

  6. 6

    Stop at the depth rod mark, pull the bit out while it is still turning and blow or vacuum the hole clean.

See cordless SDS drills →

Choosing the right mode

Most SDS plus drills have three modes: rotary only for wood and metal with an adapter chuck, rotary hammer for masonry, and hammer only for chiselling. Some have a chisel position setting so you can turn the chisel to the angle you want before locking it. See SDS drill settings explained.

Never use hammer mode with a normal drill bit in an adapter chuck; it will damage the bit and the chuck. See can you use normal drill bits in an SDS drill.

Common mistakes

Pushing too hard is the most common. It slows the hammer, overheats the bit and tires you. Drilling without clearing dust makes the bit bind and can trigger the clutch. Using a worn bit with a rounded tip makes holes oversize, so wall plugs spin. Replace bits when the tip is visibly worn.

Drilling too close to the edge of brick or a lintel can blow out the corner. Keep a reasonable distance from edges, and drill into the brick rather than the mortar joint when you need a strong fixing.

  • Push lightly and let the hammer work.
  • Clear dust often on deep holes.
  • Keep bits sharp and greased.
  • Use the side handle every time.

Looking after the drill

Keep the vents clear and blow dust out of the chuck. Some corded SDS drills need their gearbox grease changing at service intervals; check the manual and use the maker's service agents. For cordless models, keep batteries charged and stored as in storing tool batteries.

If you are not sure whether you need your own drill, see hire or buy an SDS drill.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need to push hard with an SDS drill? No. Light, steady pressure is best. Too much pressure reduces the hammer action and wears the bit.

Why does my SDS bit move in and out? That play is normal. It lets the piston hammer the back of the bit.

Do SDS bits need grease? A small amount on the shank grooves reduces wear. Wipe off old dusty grease first.

Can I drill tiles with an SDS drill? Yes, start in rotary only until you are through the glaze, then use hammer for the wall behind.

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