Tips & Tricks ANSI Bits
All masonry fasteners require the use of a hammer drill to create the correct hole. A carbide bit is also called for—and it must meet ANSI standards to ensure proper hole tolerance.
ANSI standard bits come in four different formats, based on how they are attached to a hammer drill:
- Straight Shank
Smooth shank designed for use in a Jacobs style chuck, the type of chuck that requires a chuck key.
- SDS, SDS+, SDS Plus
Acronym for spline drive system
Used in the small keyless chucks
Diameter of about 3/8”, about equal in diameter to your small finger
- SDS MAX
Used in larger hammer drills with keyless chucks
Diameter of about 3/4”, about equal to the diameter of your thumb.
- Spline
Used in large hammer drills requiring the use of spline drive bits.
