What a #80 Drill Bit Is Built For
The #80 drill bit measures 0.0135 inches (0.343 mm) in diameter. That makes it one of the smallest commonly available twist drill sizes. It is designed for tasks where a standard 1/16" bit would be too wide: fine jewelry work, model-making, bead drilling, and detail work in soft to medium-hard materials like wood, resin, acrylic, and plastics.
Because the bit is so narrow, it is not a general-purpose tool. You would reach for a #80 when you need a tiny pilot hole for a delicate pin, a wire passage in a pendant, or a clean opening in a miniature component. It is also a good choice for drilling materials such as walnut, amber, beeswax, olive nut, and PVC.
Product Evidence: Excel Blades #80 Drill Bits
- Drills #80: Each drill bit measures 0.0135 inches (0.343 mm) in diameter, made from high-speed steel for durability. The exact diameter confirms this is a true #80 bit, not an approximate size. High-speed steel holds an edge longer than carbon steel, which matters when drilling multiple small holes.
Drills #80 - Drills #80: The set includes 12 drill bits, providing replacements for extended projects. Micro bits are easy to break or dull. Having a 12-piece set means you can keep working without ordering a replacement immediately.
- Drills #80: Designed to fit Excel Blades pin vises models 70003, 70005, 70011, 70023, and 55661. Compatibility with specific pin vises means the bit will be held securely and concentrically, reducing wobble and breakage.
How to Use a #80 Drill Bit for Fine Detailing
Follow these steps to get clean, accurate holes without breaking the bit.
- 1. Select a compatible pin vise: Use an Excel Blades pin vise model 70003, 70005, 70011, 70023, or 55661. These are designed to grip the #80 shank securely. A standard drill chuck may not hold such a small bit squarely.
- 2. Secure the bit without overtightening: Insert the bit into the pin vise collet and tighten just enough to prevent slipping. Overtightening can bend or snap the bit.
- 3. Mark your drilling spot: Use a fine-point marker or a center punch to create a small divot. The #80 bit is too narrow to self-center on a smooth surface.
- 4. Use light, steady pressure: Rotate the pin vise between your fingers or use a gentle back-and-forth motion. Let the bit cut at its own pace. Forcing the bit increases the risk of breakage.
- 5. Clear debris frequently: Micro bits clog easily. Withdraw the bit often to clear dust, especially when drilling resin, beeswax, or soft plastics.
- 6. Support the workpiece: Place the material on a firm, flat surface or a cutting mat. Thin or flexible pieces should be backed with a scrap of wood to prevent tear-out.
Materials That Work Well and One Trade-Off
The supplied evidence confirms that #80 bits are suitable for wood, resin, jewelry materials, walnut, amber, beeswax, olive nut, beads, PVC, acrylic, and plastic. These materials are soft enough for a micro bit to cut without excessive heat or chatter.
What is not confirmed is performance in harder materials like brass, aluminum, or steel. The bits are high-speed steel, which can handle some light metal work, but the lack of explicit evidence means you should test on a scrap piece first. If you need to drill metal regularly, consider a larger bit or a carbide alternative.
Safety and Handling Notes
The product record includes a California Prop 65 warning about dust that may cause cancer. When drilling wood, resin, or plastic, fine dust is generated. Work in a well-ventilated area and consider wearing a dust mask or using a vacuum attachment.
Micro bits are fragile. Store them in the original case or a dedicated drill index to prevent the tips from striking each other. A bent #80 bit is effectively useless and cannot be straightened reliably.
