How to Use a Flexible Drill Bit for Beginners [Tips & Mistakes]

A beginner's guide on how to use a 72" flexible drill bit. Minimize (prevent) drywall repairs when using a flexible drill bit to run new electrical through studs and fire blocks.

Sharing our own newbie experience with you--including some lessons I wish I knew ahead of time. As with many of our projects, we did some research, but discovered (the hard way) some of our own tips to use a flexible drill bit. Use these sanity saving tips to make your drop easier!

A flexible drill bit is also known as a flex shank drill bit, bell hanger drill bit, flexible installer drill bit with an auger tip. Whatever you want to call this kind of drill bit, it is a lengthy piece of steel that you attach on to the end of your drill and then attempt to hit the stud (not the drywall). When you encounter a fire block half way down the wall you generally want a 72" drill bit (or 48” and possibly an extension) to handle the distance and give you some flexibility coming from the top or side.

Flexible drill bits are one of those esoteric tools you rarely use, but are really necessary when you need them. Whether you choose a
○ flexible drill bit (made in the USA) - https://amzn.to/3vVy60U
○ all-in-one kit with the placement tool (note, this one is only 54 inches) - https://amzn.to/3vR7C0l

NOTE: Make sure you buy the correct width, as needed.

NEXT VIDEO:

○ Choosing the best of the bad answers--deciding how to run a new electrical line on an exterior wall - COMING SOON

Checklist:
○ Flexible drill bit (see above list)
○ Placement tool (if one is not included with the drill bit) - https://amzn.to/47RYgPs
○ Bumper Balls (optional) - https://amzn.to/3ulnJmm
○ Fiberglass glow stick pull kit with a bullet nose tip, like this one - https://amzn.to/2uVzeCt
○ Electrical tape - https://amzn.to/3vUuFHK
○ Picks - https://amzn.to/3HChNbN
○ Spotter inside with a means of communication

0:00 Intro
0:26 Tip #1: Safety gear.
1:13 Tip #2: Angle
3:01 Tip #3: Helper tools
5:04 Tip #4: Space
6:12 Tip #5: How to drill
6:29 Tip #6: Spotter
7:30 Tip #7. Useful holes
7:58 Tip #8: Glow sticks
8:14 Tip #9: Bullet nose attachment
8:59 Tip #10: Fishing out of the wall
9:23 Tip #11: Is this the best option?
Tip #12: Did I just make a hole in fireblock? Isn’t it supposed to be sealed? --definitely check out the follow on video.

DISCLAIMER / HONESTY POLICY: The links in this description may be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. You are not obligated to do so, but it does fund these videos in hopes of helping you through your project and there is no additional charge to you.

Keep these tips in mind to maintain your sanity and REMEMBER TO KEEP THE ANGLE AS CLOSE TO THE WALL AS POSSIBLE!

Do you have any additional tips? Please add them to the comments!