SMART BIT

The SMART-BIT by HEADCOTE

What The Smart Bit Is

Headcote #10 Smart Bit and similar Smart-Bit tools are pre-drilling + countersinking tools designed to make installing deck screws — especially stainless steel deck screws like Headcote and Deckfast — much easier and more consistent. They are especially helpful when working with hardwoods, dense composites, or stainless fasteners where pre-drilling is recommended or required.

How It Works

These tools combine pre-drilling and countersinking into one action: you drill a hole that’s the correct diameter and depth for your screw and create a countersink that perfectly matches the screw head shape. The integrated stop collar spins freely until the hole is complete and then stops — so you get consistent depth every time without guessing.

• Pre-drills the correct pilot hole — ideal for hardwoods and stainless screws
• Countersinks to match the screw head — helps screws sit flush or slightly below surface
• Free-spinning stop collar — prevents surface damage and ensures consistent holes
• Replaceable bits — when the bit dulls or breaks, you just swap it out

Why It’s Useful

• Hardwood decking (e.g., ipe, tigerwood): These materials are tough — drilling and countersinking by eye is hard work; Smart-Bits make it easier and more uniform.
• Stainless deck screws: Stainless steel is softer but more prone to breakage if not pre-drilled; Smart-Bit helps prevent that.
• Professional finish: Countersinks match the screw head exactly, making for a neat, consistent appearance. 

SIZES:

• #7
• #8
• #10

The smart bit is a counter sinking tool that pre-drills. With the Smart Bit system, you get a perfect hole and a perfect fit every time. With this patented system, it greatly reduces broken drill bits. This trim head sized Smart-Bit creates a hole that matches the shape of a #10 trim head screw, along with a hole diameter suitable for fastening into hardwoods. Makes a hole with an overall length of 1-1/8 in., perfect for pre-drilling deck boards, but also useful in many other applications. The Trim Head Screw sized Smart-Bit makes a countersunk pilot hole that is perfectly matched to your specific fastener size. No trial and error adjustments to find the right setting, the depth of the countersink stays consistent - it does not slip. Originally developed for deck builders, Smart-Bit has found a wide following, especially among those working with hardwoods, such as those installing oak cabinets. When installing decks, Smart-Bit is particularly useful when working with hardwoods and composite decking, where pre-drilling is often recommended or required, or when using stainless steel deck screws. Drill bits can be replaced when broken or worn. New drill bits are installed into the countersinking portion of the tool. Two extra bits are provided with the tool along with a hex wrench, all in a tray box. Extra packs of 5 replacement bits are also available. Use only Smart-Bit Replacement Bits.

OTHER DETAILS: