Description
3/8 Inch Plastic Drill Bit is specifically designed for drilling clean, chip-free holes in acrylic, polycarbonate, and other plastic materials. Unlike standard drill bits made for wood or metal, this specialized bit features a 90° point angle and 0° rake angle that prevents cracking, chipping, and stress fractures common when using conventional bits on plastics. The geometry cleanly slices through plastic without grabbing or melting the material.
ShapesPlastics' 3/8" plastic drill bit is made from high-speed steel (HSS) for durability and works excellently with both hand drills and drill presses. The 3/8" shank diameter fits standard drill chucks. Perfect for drilling larger mounting holes, bolt clearance holes, or any application requiring precise 3/8" holes in acrylic sheets, polycarbonate panels, HDPE, ABS, PVC, and other thermoplastics. This larger size is ideal for heavy-duty hardware and structural fasteners. Professional fabricators rely on these specialized bits for clean results even in thicker materials without damage.
Features
- 3/8 inch (0.375") diameter
- 90° point angle for accurate starting
- 0° rake angle prevents chipping
- High-speed steel (HSS) construction
- Produces clean, chip-free holes
- Works with hand drills and drill presses
- 3/8" shank diameter
- Designed specifically for plastics
- Prevents stress cracks
- Professional quality
Applications of 3/8" Plastic Drill Bit
- Acrylic Sheet Drilling
- Polycarbonate Panel Holes
- Heavy-Duty Mounting Holes
- Bolt Clearance Holes
- Structural Fastener Installation
- Marine Board Drilling
- HDPE Fabrication
- Thick Material Drilling
- Industrial Applications
- Large Hardware Installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I use a regular drill bit on plastic?
Regular drill bits designed for wood or metal have aggressive rake angles that grab and pull through material. On plastic, this causes chipping, cracking, melting from friction, and stress fractures around the hole. Plastic drill bits have a 0° rake angle that cleanly slices through plastic without grabbing, producing smooth, chip-free holes without damage. This is especially critical with larger bits like 3/8" which generate significant torque.
What materials can I drill with this bit?
This bit works on acrylic (plexiglass), polycarbonate (Lexan), HDPE, ABS, PVC, PETG, and most other thermoplastics. It's specifically engineered for softer, more brittle plastics that crack easily with standard bits. The 3/8" size is perfect for heavy-duty mounting applications and thick materials. Not recommended for fiberglass or reinforced materials.
Should I use high or low drill speed?
Use moderate to low speeds (300-1000 RPM) for 3/8" bits. Larger diameter bits generate more heat and friction, so slower speeds are critical to prevent melting. Apply steady, light pressure and let the bit do the work. Back the bit out frequently to clear chips and allow cooling. For thick materials, drill in stages rather than forcing through in one pass.
Can I use this bit on thick plastic sheets?
Yes, the 3/8" bit works well on thick plastic materials when proper technique is used. Use slow speeds, light pressure, and back out frequently to clear chips. For materials over 1/2" thick, consider drilling a pilot hole with a smaller bit first (like 1/8" or 1/4"), then enlarging to 3/8". Always clamp material securely and support the backside to prevent blowout.
