Spade Bit
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionA spade bit (also called a paddle bit) is a flat steel blade with a center point, designed for fast rough holes in wood. Common sizes go from 3/8-inch to 1-1/2-inch. They cut fast, throw big chips, and leave a rough hole with splintered edges. That's fine for running wire and pipe through studs and joists, which is their primary job. They're cheap (a 6-piece set runs $8 to $15), fit in any 3/8-inch or larger chuck, and bore through 2x lumber in a few seconds. For clean holes in visible work, use a Forstner bit or hole saw instead.
Why It Matters
When you need 40 holes through framing lumber for electrical runs, spade bits are the fastest option that fits in a standard drill. They're disposable-cheap and aggressive enough to punch through knots and nail plates. Keep the center point sharp with a file. Once it dulls, the bit wanders.