Top 6 Best Long Drill Bit Extension: Review And Buying Guide

The long drill bit extension is used to assist drill bits to handle high torque loads. Read this review to make your drill extension choices.

Our Pick – Top 3 Long Drill Bit Extensions

In case you’re in a hurry, here are my top three recommendations for the best long drill bit extensions.

#1	#2	#3
BOSCH DSBE1012 12 In. Extension for Daredevil Spade Bits	Eagle Tool US ETHX25054 has Been Replaced by a Newer Model,...	Eagle Tool US Installer Bit and Drill Bit Extension, 36-INCH -...
$4.85	$30.88	$26.12
Check on Amazon	Check on Amazon	Check on Amazon

Still confused about which long drill bit extensions is best for you?

Let me help by providing detailed reviews on the best long drill bit extensions that I found in the market (and the ones you can buy online).

These reviews will definitely help you gain awareness and understanding of the best features, pros, and cons of each long drill bit extension.

Let’s get started!

Best Long Drill Bit Extensions Reviewed

Below is the table that shows all the long drill bit extensions covered in this review.

NAME	IMAGE	OUR RATING	PRICE
BOSCH DSBE1012 12 In. Extension for Daredevil Spade Bits		9.5 / 10	$4.85	Check Best Price
Eagle Tool US ETHX25054 has Been Replaced by a Newer Model,...		9.5 / 10	$30.88	Check Best Price
Eagle Tool US Installer Bit and Drill Bit Extension, 36-INCH -...		9.0 / 10	$26.12	Check Best Price
FLAT BIT 12" EXT		9.0 / 10	$9.98	Check Best Price
IRWIN Drill Bit Holder Extension, Impact Rated, Quick Change,...		8.5 / 10	Price not available	Check Best Price
Vermont American 17104 12-Inch Standard Drill Bit Extension		8.5 / 10	Price not available	Check Best Price

Now let’s have a look at the detailed reviews of each of the long drill bit extension covered in this article.

BOSCH DSBE1012 12 In. Extension for Daredevil Spade Bits

This is a 12-inch extension for a drill bit, and it is quite versatile in nature because it can be used for power tools as well as drill bits and their accessories. This extension tool reveals so much about the creativity of Bosch a popular brand in tools making.

It produces an enhanced speed with great cutting abilities, and it is very easy to use.  The signature-speed coating of this tool helps reduce friction and corrosion.

This extension comes with a full-cone shape threaded tip that supports fast ad effortless drilling, even in the most difficult places.  The ¼” hex drive extension is compatible with Bosch spade bits, and a number of other branded bits. This product also comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty

You can rely on the hex shank power groove on this tool for the anti-slipping effect and to further strengthen your grip on the extension while working.  There are the spur and reamer tips that ensure cleaner holes during and after drilling.

It is designed masterfully to reduce torque impact, especially during usage.  This tool is designed to withstand lots of mechanical and non-mechanical abuses, however, it must be stored in cool and dry spots to prolong its shelf life.

PROs

CONs

The cone-shaped thread supports quick drilling under different circumstances. Comes with a quick discharge mechanism for fast release and replacement of bits before and after usages. With a cleaner hole quality, there are lower chances of a breakout, with the use of this extension tool. Comes with a great price bargain because it is cheaper than most of its competitors. It is designed with a hard body that guarantees that the blades do not bend

The 12” length seems to be shorter for some difficult situations. It simply means I have to use longer bits to reach some difficult places. It is not compatible with all bits.

Eagle Tool US ETHX25054 has Been Replaced by a Newer Model,...

This is an even much longer extension for drill bits, measuring ¼” x 54” in diameter and total length respectively.

The tool comes with an internal hex that makes it simple to for attaching any ¼” hex shank in drill bits, and also comes with customized slip-resistant screws that are made with nylon patches. This is the ETHX25054 which is similar in all features to the ETHX25036 version except the fact that the latter is a few inches shorter than the former.

There are three flat non-slip grips located at the chuck end, which makes the tool very easy to grip without the fear of the item falling off your hand. The extension also comes with a quick switch hex that allows the entire piece to adapt to a very fast change chuck part.

The lightweight tool measures 54” x 0.5” x 0.5” in length, height, and diameter respectively.  This should be one of your top priorities when considering extension tools for drill bits.

PROs

CONs

The screws on the extension grip the tool better because of their slip-resistance feature, which makes the tool a lot easier to handle even when changing the bits. With the 54” in length, I can add bits of 24” or less to extend the reach of the bits into more hidden places. This extension will support 90 degrees turning effectively and also handle almost 180 degrees but you need to be careful to avoid injuring your wrist when turning it at 180 degrees.

Drill bits are not included in this package; hence you need to purchase them separately, thus adding to the total costs. There is no information about the manufacturer warranty on this product.

Eagle Tool US Installer Bit and Drill Bit Extension, 36-INCH -...

This is a ¼” by 36” long extension for the drill bit. With a length of 36”, this is surely one of the longest extensions you can find around. This tool extension comes with an internal hex that is suitable for attaching ¼ hex shank to the drill; bit.

It also comes with nylon-patched set screws that are resistant to slip, which makes the tool remain steady during usage.

In addition to the slip-resistant screws, the chuck end of the extension comes with a slip-resistant grip for easy handling. It is possible to add a Quick slip Hex to make the extension adapt to a quick change chuck path. The tool measures 36” x 0.5” x 0.5” in length, width and height respectively.

The set screw on this extension will allow for griping around the shank bit with respect to the hex. This is a highly flexible tool that costs almost the same as  IRWIN Tools 1869518 Impact Performance Series Quick Change Bit Extension.

There is a 54” model of this extension tool you can consider if you need to handle work in places more hidden from your sight.

PROs	CONs
The nylon-patched screw makes handling a lot better as the screws will not slip out of hand. There are no batteries required to operate this tool. This extension holds the bit securely, with little or no chance of the bit slipping out. The ¼ inch diameter of the shaft makes it very flexible for different angles of usage.	It comes with a rather short 30-day limited manufacturer warranty. This tool will do a 90-degree turn but you must be careful when trying to do a 180-degree turn, it can spring and hurt your wrist.

FLAT BIT 12" EXT

This brand may not be as common as many other popular options out there but it delivers an amazing extension for drill bits that delivers a great job always.

With a massive 12 inches x 1.9 x 0.4” in length, width, and height respectively, this is one of the longest drill bits you will find around, hence it can reach most of the places where shorter extensions will not reach.  It has been forged with the top quality steel and an Allen wrench has been included.

It is most suitable for wood bits with ¼” round shanks and also comes with 3 flats on the shank. The extension can drive the 5/8” and the larger bits through the hole. Made from heavy-duty material, hence it is very strong and durable, resisting lots of mechanical assertions.  It comes with the double-set screw type of design. It comes in a variety of lengths and can add between 6” and 12” to the bits.

With its large size bits support, this tool can drive down bits even through very deep walls and wood floors. It handles torque and vibration, excellently well and changing bits is very easy with the extension. This product comes with a limited manufacturer warranty, which confirms it as a top-quality product you can rely on.

PROs	CONs
It is one of the cheapest yet efficient extensions for drill bits you can find in the market today. Most suitable for the larger bits especially those measuring 5/8” or higher. Multiple extensions of this tool can be daisy-changed together to especially if you want to drill down deeper inches of walls.	This extension cannot be used with the quick wood drilling bits. The extension is not available in several countries, you need to check this when making your orders

IRWIN Drill Bit Holder Extension, Impact Rated, Quick Change,...

This drill bit extension has been designed for the utmost durability. It comes with a ¼ “ shank and measures 18” in length, hence it can adequately reach difficult places where drill bits may not reach ordinarily.

The head of the extension measures ¾” in diameter, and it is very much possible to daisy-chain some of these extensions together to extend your reach, in difficult situations. Fortunately, those who love the lock and load feature on their extensions for drill bits can opt for this tool

It comes with a patented jaw design that is very much compatible with all the ¼”  hex shank accessories you can think about. It also comes with a large chuck that makes the extension resistant to higher torque demands during high impact drills.

This tool has been completed with a black oxide coating that will extend its lifespan and reduce the risks of erosion. It is made of inner steel material and the tool measures 0.6 x 1.8 x 20 inches.

You can make use of this extension in diverse situations involving bending down. For instance, you can use the extension in deck planks, if you include a magnetic driver bit with the extension.

PROs	CONs
It responds solidly to higher impact drills without problems. It comes with a quick-release technique that guarantees very fast-changing bits. The ¼” Quick-change shank will work with impact drivers efficiently to reduce slipping especially in the large drill chucks.	Slightly costlier than many rival extensions for drill bit. In some cases where you need to bend down, you will need to attach a magnetic driver bit to the extension.

Vermont American 17104 12-Inch Standard Drill Bit Extension

This is another 12” extension that delivers powerful drilling with different bits. The drill might be 12” long but it helps in drilling deep holes quickly while facilitating the changing of drill bits. Works perfectly with all bits sizes and it is built to last long. There are no batteries required to power this tool.

The tool is designed basically for the ¼” drive bit holder, this means you cannot put a normal drill bit inside. It is safe to say that this extension is not designed for the regular drill bits but the spade bits.

You may have to change the shaft in order to use the normal drill bits for the extension. It also comes with a limited manufacturer warranty of 30 days.  You need to be sure you are purchasing the item from recognized places only if you want to enjoy the limited warranty offer.

PROs	CONs
This extension works great even in hard-to-reach places. Though the hole is typically round, this extension will, however, accept most spade bits, and the hex ends.	The 12 inches maybe a little short for some drilling. You may not be able to use the normal drill bit with it because it comes with the ¼ bit holder.

Why You Should Get The Drill Bit Extension

The long drill bit extensions are very popular and they fit into different drilling situations. They are designed to be so long so that they can handle different torque loads and at the same time still allow more flexibility for better control. The 3/16”, ¼” and 5/16” are some of the popular options you should consider, they are common extensions for drill bit especially in wire installations.

With the long extensions, you can easily drill through the bottom and top plates alongside several fire blocks from the same entry points to make installations very fast.  Keep in mind that the ideal bit extension is not always the most expensive option out there.

Choosing Your Drill Bit Extensions- Important Considerations

When choosing your drill bit extensions, there are several considerations you need to make, these are;

• The length of the operation or job needed,
• Shank size of the drill bit
• Directional tool
• Does it fit Hex bits or only Round shanks?

The length of the operation or job needed must be measured before you choose the extension appropriate for such. Failure to follow this rule may mean you wouldn’t achieve the right drill efficiency and you may end up performing shoddy jobs.

The shank size of the drill bit must be measured before choosing your drill bit. The shank size is the end that simply stuck to the drill. It must fit perfectly into the drill to allow you to tighten the set screws in order to secure the bit into the long extension.

Adding a directional tool to the drill bit extension can also help in a number of ways. A drill bit directional tool will provide more stability and control for the drill bit user, especially in situations where the drill bit can be unwieldy.

Some extensions are not designed for hexagonal or other shapes of bits; hence you need to check whether the one you choose is designed for only round bits or various shapes.  The ideal extension drill must fit most standard shaft sizes and must be suitable for multi-floor drilling. Any extension that doesn’t fit into different floor drilling situation is not suitable. You should also consider extension drills that are flexible for different operations.

When Should A Long Extension Becomes Necessary For A Drill Bit?

Being a very handy tool you can attach to a drill, this extension works just exactly like the drain snake used for plumbing purposes. The bit of the drill will fit perfectly into the extension and the extension can be operated from the drill end in order to tighten the screw or the drill hole.

It may seem unnecessary to use an extension for the drill bit unless the project you are working on has some tight corners or some hard-to-reach areas. One of the common attributes of the extension in relation to the plumbers drains snake is that the snake will allow the drain clearance through a remove control perspective, and so does the extension for the drain bit.

If you want to get in contact with and work on closely-enclosed areas, especially areas where a hammer will not be effective, you can simply make use of an extension to screw the component article down instead of using a hammer.

Assuming you are working on a home roofing project and one of the areas you want to access is a quite small and tight lip near the awning. If you want to place some roof tiles down and you don’t have enough space to swing the hammer, then the extension for the drill bit to simply bend the extension into the tight region to handle the work.

The extension for the drill bit is handy for any tight spot or work region where hidden holes and screws will require the application of extension for a drill bit to save you time and energy.

How To Change Drill Bits With Extension

There are few steps to take when changing drill bits with extensions, these are;

1. Loosen the chuck

The chuck is that piece located at the end of the drill that can loosen and tighten to hold the bits and extension. Simply grab the chuck with a hand, and hold the drill handle with the other hand, then twist the chuck in a counterclockwise motion to loosen it. When you loosen the chuck, it will open the jaws that clamp into the drill bit.

2. Remove the Drill Bit

Once the chuck has been loosening, you will have access to the drill bit that is currently in the chuck will start wobbling, and you can easily pull it away from the drill because the jaws that clamp it to the drill has loosened up.

3. Set the Drill Bit

Simply hold the bit in place with your thumb, alongside the index finger, in such a way that the shank faces the chuck jaws. Gently insert the bits into the chuck and almost immediately pull it back towards you about a centimeter distance. Make sure your fingers are kept on the bit alongside the chuck since the bit may fall out.

4. Squeeze in the Trigger

Once the bit has been inserted, your next move is to tighten the bit into its place by simply giving the trigger some extra short squeezes (the trigger is controlled by that yellow lever, which you can press to tighten or loosen the bit).   While pressing the trigger, make sure your hand is still holding the bit loosely.

5. Make Use of the Ratcheting Mechanism if Needed

If the drill comes with a ratcheting mechanism that can help you apply extra pressure on the shank of the drill bit, then you need to click such a mechanism into place. In order to engage this mechanism, simply twist the ratcheting mechanism firmly, in a clockwise motion, next to the chuck.

6. Insert the Extension

You will need the chuck key in order to attach the extension for the drill bit. The chuck key is needed to loosen the chuck. Make sure you line up the teeth so that they match the teeth of the chuck and then insert the tip of the key to one of the holes located on the side of the chuck. You will likely see a key chuck on the power drill and not the cordless options.

7. Turn your Chuck Key Counter-clockwise

As you are turning the chuck key, the jaws on the chuck will simply begin to open. Make sure you continue turning the key until the chuck has opened enough in order for you to slide the drill bit out easily.

8. Remove the Bit

Simply pull the bit out of the chuck with the aid of your thumb as well as the index finger, once the chuck has been loosened. If the chuck has opened wide, and the drill is turned facedown, then the bit will simply fall off.

Make sure you inspect the bit once it has been removed to see if there are worn or damaged regions. You need to replace it if it is dull and before you attach the extension. If the bit also shows signs of cracking or bending, simply throw it away so that you don’t put it back accidentally.

9. Insert the new Bit and Extension

While the jaws of the chuck are still opened widely, simply insert the extension and the bit. Simply hold the bit with the thumb finger, alongside the index finger in such a way that the smooth part of the shank is facing the chuck jaws, and then insert the bit with the extension.  Make sure your fingers are kept on the bit because it is not secured yet and may fall out.

10. Tighten the Chuck

Once the extension and new bit have been installed, you must tighten the chuck. While you are still holding the bit in place with a hand, then turn the chuck key in a clockwise motion in order to tighten the jaws of the chuck with the other hand. Make sure it is tightened firmly in order to secure the bit. Once the extension and bit have been secured, you can remove the chuck key. Remove your hand from the bit and extension once they are secured and test before using it.

Now if you are curious about how to use drill bit extensions, you can get a good idea from this short video. Don’t miss it.

What To Look Out For When Buying Extensions For Drill Bits

There are a number of factors you should consider when buying extensions for drill bits and these considerations can help you make the ideal choice. The main factors you should consider are;

• Length of extension.
• The material of extension.
• Types of Loading System.
• Magnetic or non-magnetic.
• Compatibility.
• Flexible or non-flexible.
• Price

It is easy to settle for any type of extension length when buying the accessory but in essence, the longer the extension the better. Don’t go for a 12” extension when you will need something longer for many jobs you will be handling during home renovation or construction work. Shorter extensions may include the 2”, 4”, and 6” which are very convenient for short-distance jobs.

The material used making the extension matters because it may add to its longevity. You may be fine with steel extension with no extra plating but improper storage and handling can cause corrosion of the extension especially when it comes with lower-grade steel materials.

Extensions made with chrome-plated sleeve and carbon steel body extensions last longer, and they look more premium but will likely cost more than the steel-plated extension. If you are conscious of budget, perhaps you should opt for the stainless steel extensions with no extra plating but make sure the steel grade is of top quality.

The type of loading system an extension is also a key feature you should consider when buying an extension. The lock and load system has been found to be more convenient and more effective in the sense that it releases itself quickly for quick changing of drill bits. The lock and load system is, therefore, more economical especially when you have to perform so many jobs quickly, and it saves time and energy.

Though, the choice of going for magnetic or non-magnetic extensions for drill bit should only be a personal thing. Magnetic extensions may be more efficient because they offer more superior access to hard-to-reach places when handling a job. The magnetic effect means the extension will get stuck to the bits even more efficiently thus leaving no room for misalignment.

The compatibility of an extension also matters. The more compatible an extension is, the more effective and more economical it is. Go for an extension with a patented jaw design that is compatible with all the ¼” hex shank accessories.

When it comes to choosing between flexible or non-flexible extension, perhaps you need to consider your personal needs. Though the flexible extension can bend easily, hence it can reach even more difficult areas, you may not actually need such if you can use a shorter extension to reach such places.

When it comes to the issue of the price of extensions, many things will determine the costs of the product you choose. For instance, longer extensions are more expensive than shorter ones. You should also expect a carbon-plated or chrome-plated extension to be more expensive than an ordinary steel extension. If you are buying a pack of several extensions, the cost will be higher than buying a single extension, which means the inclusion of other accessories can equally make the product cost more.

Conclusion

As mentioned before, the most expensive extension is not always the best drill bits extension out there; you need to be aware of the specifications that will suit your personal needs before making your final choice. If you can’t be certain about your personal specifications, perhaps you should consider purchasing a shorter and longer extension to complement each other at various times.

Fortunately, there are some possible ways to use more than one extension at the same time to handle tougher or deeper drilling jobs. You may also want to consider magnetic extension options that provide even better stability and reduce cases or chances of shifting of drill bits inside.

This review has given you an insight into how you can choose the right types of extensions for your needs. Pay attention to the recommended products and compare them in terms of length, compatibility, and strengths when making your final choices. Perhaps you may want to seek some expert advice from tool shops and individual drill bit extension owners to be certain that you are making the right choices.

You need to be careful when purchasing fairly used or refurbished extensions for drill bits, such products may not be in their best conditions and may create problems within a short period of time, thus making you lose money in the long run.  Refurbished and fairly used extensions are known to bend or break after a few days or weeks of usage, unless you are sure of the source you are buying from, you should avoid payments for such used items.

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