Difference Between Mortising Bit And Straight Bit: Complete Breakdown!

In the woodworking sector, drill bits are very useful. But there is some confusion between mortising bit and straight bit.

So, what is the difference between mortising bit and straight bit?

A mortising bit produces minimal dust, whereas a straight bit produces many. It is also very efficient on rough surfaces. But, a straight bit can be inefficient on rough surfaces. However, a straight bit can cut deeper than a mortise bit. Also, a straight bit is less expensive than a mortise bit.

This is not enough, however. Because each bit can be used for different types of work.

So, let’s get started.started.

Quick Comparison

Mortising bit and straight bit are two common drill bits used by woodworkers. However, not just beginners, some professionals fail to understand the differences.

So, let’s see a quick comparison between both.

Differentiating Factors	Mortising Bit	Straight Bit
Material	Carbide	Stainless Steel and Carbide
Cutting Type	Square-shaped grooves	Cut into wood stock
Cutting Depth	1/4 inches or 1/6 inches deep	1/2 inches or, 1/4 inches
Accuracy	More	Less
Adjoining Material	Glue	Screw and Nails
Price	Check On Amazon	Check On Amazon

This quick comparison is useful. However, it isn’t enough to know which bit is better. So, I will talk about each bit in details.

So, let’s move on.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Mortising chisel bits are getting very popular. Many woodworkers are using this for various reasons. But how does it compare with the straight bit?

Well in this section, you will get a complete idea about it. So, let’s start mortising bit vs straight bit.

Convenience

Woodworking causes very other problems. Like sawdust is a hassle for you to keep the wood surface clean. Also, sometimes the cut needs to be done on a harsh surface. So, how can each bit be convenient for you?

A mortising bit can produce very minimal sawdust. Because a mortising bit plows through the wood. Also, it constantly touches the wood surface. Hence, it can easily plow through even on a rough wood surface.

However, a straight bit can produce a lot of dust compared to a mortising bit. Yet, on a rough surface, a straight bit can be inefficient. You need to work harder with a straight bit compared to a mortising bit.

Nevertheless, a straight bit is very useful for small plunge cuts. Also, the straight bit can be used in any drilling machine. A mortising bit can fit however, it may not hit full speed on every tool.

In terms of convenience, both bits have advantages and limitations. But a mortising bit can be more impactful than a straight bit.

Cutting Type

Each drill bit offers a different type of cut. The cutting type is important to understand which bit to use. So, let’s talk about mortising vs straight bit cutting type.

All mortising bits use slanted cutting edges that slice the material rather than chop it. So a piece of the cutting edge is continually in contact with the wood. As a result, the cut is clean and smooth.

Straight bits are metal bodies with carbide cutters brazed to them. As a result, it chops down the woods and leaves a deep grove. Compared to mortising bits, straight bits are less clean. Because mortising bits are all carbide.

Straight bits are commonly used to create various square-shaped grooves. The mortise bits cut into wood stock.

Cut Depth

The depth of the bit will ensure the depth of the cut. It is an important thing to consider as different projects require different sizes of wood. Hence, let’s talk about the cut depth of each bit.

A mortise bit can cut 1/4 inches or 1/6 inches deep. It is possible due to the spiral-shaped bit and high impact.

On the other hand, a straight bit can go 1/2 or, 1/4 inches deep. It penetrates deeper than a mortise bit.

Nevertheless, it is advised not to cut more than 3/16 inches inside. Otherwise, you can ruin the whole wood.

Purpose

Mortise and straight bit are both applied for woodworks. But each serves a different purpose. Let’s see what works can be done with the bits.

The purpose of a mortise bit is to cut corners. The grooves then are cut into the wood board to create a mortise and tenon joint. It is an important part of woodworking design. Such slots can be carved cleanly and uniformly with a mortise bit.

On the other hand, Straight bits are commonly used to create various square-shaped grooves. These grooves can be carved with or against the grain of the wood. It also creates an L-shaped shoulder by cutting along the edge of the wood.

Nails on carpentry work are displeasing. Using a straight bit, you are more likely to use nails. As the cuts won’t be perfect enough to be glued together. However, with the mortising bit, you can glue the mortise and tenon joint together.

Accuracy

Using drill press and bits require lots of attention and precision. Each drill bit has a different level of accuracy. It happens due to the shape, material, and also drilling machine.

Due to the build material, mortising bits don’t vibrate while cutting. The shape of the drill bit is also spiraling downwards, which sticks on the wood. As a result, you have full accuracy regardless of the surface of the wood.

On the other hand, straight bits can cause vibration while working. It happens as the straight bits have stainless steel. Even though, with proper speed and size, you can dismiss the vibration. But, it is less accurate than the mortise bit.

Cost

Now let’s talk about the price of each bit.

A mortise bit is priced between $50-$260. This drill bit is made out of carbide, which is a top-notch bit. The best mortise bits are given below.

Powermatic Premium Mortise Chisel & Bits	Check on Amazon
Fisch Mortise Chisel & Bit Set	Check on Amazon
Grizzly Industrial Premium Mortising Chisel	Check on Amazon

On the other hand, straight bit costs less. For $50, you can find a premium straight bit. Some of the best straight bits on the market are given below.

Freud Double Flute Straight Bit	Check on Amazon
Amana Tool Straight Plunge High Production	Check on Amazon
Bosch Carbide-Tipped 2-Flute Straight Bit	Check on Amazon

That’s all regarding the in-depth comparison of each bit. If you are still confused, I will give you my final thoughts.

So, let’s move on.

So, Which Bit Is Useful?

Before anything, each bit is useful. But, the application of each bit matters.

Using a mortise bit for carpentry is a wise idea. When making furniture or table, using nails will make the end result bad. By using a mortise bit, you can join each wooden component with glue.

However, a straight bit is useful for woodwork projects like cupboards, wall shelves, etc. Because these components need to be strong and using nails will be wise.

In the end, each bit is useful and can be used for different projects.

FAQs

Endnote

I hope now you know the difference between mortising bit and straight bit.

My advice for you is to use nails in woodworking as little as possible. This will make your woodwork very pleasing.

Have a good day.