Spot the Symptoms
“The bit won’t go in” can mean many things: you get a shallow dent only, the tool squeals, the bit smokes, or dust comes out but depth stays the same. Match the symptom before you push harder.
Four Common Causes
- Wrong mode: hammer drills left in “drill only,” so no impact force hits the wall.
- Wrong bit: using wood or metal bits on masonry quickly dulls the tip.
- Dull bit: the carbide tip is rounded off after too many concrete holes.
- Rebar or stone: sharp metallic noise or a sudden bounce means you hit something solid.
Quick Fix Checklist
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Wrong mode | Set the selector to hammer+drill, then restart. |
| Wrong bit | Swap to a masonry bit (or SDS masonry bit). Hardened tips are a must. |
| Dull bit | Replace with a new bit or sharpen it. Drill slowly and peck out dust. |
| Hit rebar | Stop, switch to a metal bit to go beside it or move the hole. Never force straight through. |
Prevention Tips
- Tap the surface before drilling; if it feels rock hard, shift the spot slightly.
- Grease SDS shanks lightly to keep hammer action smooth.
- Clean dust from bits after each job and inspect the carbide tip for chips.
- Drill in short bursts of 10–15 seconds per pass instead of continuous force.
Most stuck-bit problems fade once you follow this order—mode, bit, sharpness, hidden obstructions.
Need Pro Support?
If you still burn through bits after troubleshooting, the real fix may be better tooling. Zhonghuan Tools is an experienced SDS Plus drill bit manufacturer China partners rely on for consistent quality and fast delivery.
Looking for custom chisels or full tool packages? Our engineering team supplies OEM SDS chisel programs and acts as a dependable hammer drill supplier for contractors worldwide. Reach out via Contact or browse the SDS-Plus range to match the right bit with your next job.
