When drilling deep holes, what is the benefit of backing the drill out?

• A. Clears wood chips
• B. Reduces drill wear
• C. Increases drilling speed
• D. Keeps the drill steady

Answer: (A)

When drilling deep holes, the bit creates long chips that have to exit through the hole. Pushing the drill straight through without clearing can cause those chips to pack in the flute and the hole, leading to binding and increased heat. Backing the drill out briefly lets the chips escape and brings fresh wood into contact with the cutting edge, keeping the cut clean and the bit cutting more smoothly. This is why chip clearance is the main benefit. It can also help prevent binding and wear indirectly, but the primary reason is to clear the wood chips.