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Drilling a 1 1/8 inch hole into concrete is a job that separates good bits from junk. You need a bit that won’t dull on the first rock, snap when it hits rebar, or wander off your mark. This guide looks at the top 1 1 8 masonry drill bit options — from budget-friendly picks that handle weekend projects to premium bits built for daily abuse on the jobsite — so you can grab the right one and get back to work.
I’m Min Islam — the founder and writer behind Trending Car. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Buying a 1 1 8 masonry drill bit means understanding the shank type your hammer accepts, the carbide quality at the tip, and how the flutes clear stone dust from the hole. These factors decide if your bit lasts a single job or hundreds.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best 1 1 8 Masonry Drill Bit
Picking the wrong masonry bit means burned-up steel and a hole that is either too small or in the wrong spot. Here are the three specs that matter most when you are shopping for a 1 1/8 inch bit.
Shank Type: SDS-Plus, SDS-Max, or Spline
The shank is the part that locks into your hammer drill. SDS-Plus is the most common for mid-size rotary hammers. SDS-Max is thicker and built for larger, more powerful machines. Spline is a different system used on specific Bosch and some Hilti tools. Check your hammer’s chuck before you buy — an SDS-Plus bit will not fit an SDS-Max or Spline chuck without an adapter.
Carbide Tip and Cutter Count
The tip does all the work. A standard two-cutter bit is fine for plain concrete and brick. A four-cutter design (also called a 4-cutter) splits the load across more cutting edges. This gives you faster drilling and longer life, especially when you hit rebar. Dura-Carbide or tungsten-carbide tips can withstand heat up to 1800°F, which keeps the edge sharp when the friction gets high.
Working Length and Flute Design
The working length is the deepest hole you can drill — a bit that is 18 inches total might only have a 15.6 inch effective length. Spiral flutes pull dust out of the hole so the bit does not get clogged. A bit with deeper, wider flutes clears material faster and stays cooler, which makes the carbide last longer.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Shank Type | Cutters | Working Length | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diablo Rebar Demon (SDS-Plus)★ Best Overall | Hitting rebar often | SDS-Plus | 4 | 16 in. | Amazon |
| E&K 1-1/8″ SDS PlusBudget Champ | Budget-friendly concrete | SDS-Plus | 2 | — | Amazon |
| Bosch HC4061 SplinePremium Pick | Heavy reinforced concrete | Spline | 4 | — | Amazon |
| GRIXLEN 1-1/8 x 18″ SDS Plus | Versatile mid-range | SDS-Plus | 2 | 15.6 in. | Amazon |
| Sabre Tools 1-1/8″ SDS Plus | Light DIY work | SDS-Plus | 2 | 16 in. | Amazon |
| Wensilon 1-1/8″ X 18″ | Deep holes in stone | Straight | 2 | 16 in. | Amazon |
| EDiamondTools 1-1/8″ Core Bit | Brick and block cores | 1/2″ Shank | — | 9.5 in. | Amazon |
| SALI 1 1/8″ Diamond Core Bit | Dry concrete coring | 5/8-11 Thread | — | 10 in. | Amazon |
| Diablo Rebar Demon (SDS-Max) | High-volume pro drilling | SDS-Max | 4 | 8 in. | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Diablo Rebar Demon SDS-Plus 4-Cutter Full Carbide Head Hammer Drill Bit
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 850+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
Four cutting edges that laugh at rebar and keep drilling.
Diablo built this 1 1/8 inch bit for the worst-case scenario — a concrete slab packed with steel. The 4-cutter full carbide head spreads the impact across four edges instead of two, so when you hit rebar you do not stop, you just keep grinding. The Dura-Carbide tip handles up to 1800°F, which is over twice the heat tolerance of a standard bit that fails at 800°F. Buyers report a 3/4″ bit drilling 10 holes through 6″ concrete with rebar using a hammer drill, and the tip still looked sharp after dozens of deep holes. The bit weighs 2.8 pounds and has a 16-inch working length inside an 18-inch overall length.
The thing everyone raves about is the performance on rebar — owners say it cuts through concrete and rebar easily. One owner noted that the 4 cutting edges at the tip make this the best bit for rebar encounters. The mixed feedback centers on value: some find it expensive for a consumable bit, but given that you can drill through reinforced concrete without swapping bits, the price makes sense for serious work.
This is a crowd favorite — with thousands of owners rating it highly, it stands as the go-to bit for anyone who needs a reliable, rebar-proof tool.
Rebar Specialist
- 4-cutter carbide head handles rebar without stalling
- Dura-Carbide withstands 1800°F heat
- 16-inch working length for deep holes
The Trade-Off
- Premium price feels high for one-off DIY jobs
- Not the right pick if you only drill plain brick
Reach for it: You drill into reinforced concrete regularly and want a bit that survives rebar hits without dulling.
skip it if: Your work is mostly brick or block — a standard 2-cutter will cost less and do the job fine.
2. E&K 1-1/8’’ Inch SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill Bit
A carbide-tipped bit that goes through concrete without emptying your wallet.
E&K designed this SDS-Plus bit for fence panel installation and general anchoring work. The carbide tip extends bit life, and it fits SDS and SDS Plus chucks so you can use it with most common rotary hammers. Owners mention it works perfectly on concrete slabs, with one noting equivalent bits from name brands cost well over, and this one had “no issue going through our concrete slab and hit rebar.” Another owner drilled holes for mounting a car lift and said it worked good.
The main thing people praise is the value for money — the bit performs on par with expensive models at a fraction of the cost. Durability is mixed, with some saying it holds up well on brick while others report it dulls faster than expected. For the price, it is a solid entry-level option that handles concrete and rebar while staying affordable.
Wallet-friendly workhorse: A reliable bit for the occasional concrete anchor job. Just know that if you are drilling hundred of holes in abrasive concrete, you may wear it out sooner than a premium bit.
Grab it when: You need a 1 1/8 inch bit for a weekend project and cannot justify spending over on a name-brand model.
Look elsewhere for: Daily production drilling in high-aggregate concrete.
3. Bosch HC4061 1-1/8 in. x 21 in. Spline Speed-X™ Rotary Hammer Bit
A German-made spline bit that blasts through stone without slowing down.
Bosch brings the 21-inch Spline Speed-X bit for the heavy hitters. The patented four-cutter tip design gives you optimal performance, and the tungsten-carbide tip provides superior wear resistance in tough applications. The large flute volume moves dust out fast so the bit does not clog. One owner drilled 30 holes in old, extremely hard concrete walls with stones and the bit showed “no discernible wear” — the review pages sum it up: “Wow! It was easy. It blasted right through the stones.”
What wins people over is the quality and speed — owners say it drills through 4 inches of concrete like butter and the active-centering tip keeps the hole exactly where you want it. Durability gets mixed notes; some customers note the bit broke after limited use, so it is not invincible. But for drilling into reinforced concrete where other bits stumble, the Bosch earns its spot.
Speed Demon
- 4-cutter spline bit for fast, precise holes
- Tungsten-carbide tip resists wear on stone
- Large flutes prevent dust clogging
One Caveat
- Some owners experienced breakage under heavy use
- Requires a spline-drive rotary hammer
Best for: Contractors who use a spline hammer daily and need a bit that blasts through stone.
Think twice if: Your hammer uses an SDS-Plus or SDS-Max chuck — this bit will not fit without an expensive adapter.
4. Diablo Rebar Demon SDS-Max 4-Cutter Full Carbide Head Hammer Drill Bit
The big brother in the Rebar Demon line, built for SDS-Max rotary hammers.
This SDS-Max version of the Diablo Rebar Demon gives you the same Dura-Carbide technology (up to 1800°F heat tolerance) in a larger shank format. The 4-cutter design and Tri-Metal Fusion Welding keep the head intact during extreme impacts. At 8 inches working length, it is shorter than the SDS-Plus model, but it pairs with high-torque hammers that bore through caliche and boulders. Reviewers point out drilling 18-24 inch holes in hard caliche in about 2 minutes each, with over 100 holes showing no wear.
What stands out is the drilling performance on tough material — one owner uses it to core drill boulders for water features, and another drilled about 20 holes in sandstone and shale for fence posts. Durability gets mixed feedback, with some reporting rust after use. But for pro-level work in rocky soils and reinforced concrete, this bit is a tank.
Heavy-duty specialist: You need a short, tough bit for an SDS-Max hammer and you are drilling into caliche, boulders, or rebar-heavy concrete. The trade-off is a shorter working length and a price that reflects the pro build.
Choose this when: Your SDS-Max hammer needs a bit that can handle rebar without chipping.
Skip if: Your rotary hammer uses SDS-Plus — get the standard Diablo Rebar Demon instead.
5. Sabre Tools 1-1/8″ x 18″ SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill Bit
A lightweight SDS-Plus bit that cuts through concrete block with surprising ease.
Sabre Tools makes a 1-1/8 inch SDS Plus bit that weighs only 16 ounces. The 2-flute self-centering carbide tip keeps the hole accurate, and the spiral flute design removes dust fast to keep the bit cool. Shoppers say drilling through a 14-inch rock wall and a concrete wall “like a sharp knife through butter.” Another used it to drill 15 inches of concrete in about 10 minutes with a Dewalt SDS hammer drill and a 6Ah battery.
The recurring praise is how well it works for the price. One owner said it is good for saving money on a small DIY job. Durability is mixed — some find it very durable while others say it bends on first use. At this weight and price, it is a strong contender for homeowners who need a reliable bit for occasional concrete work.
Light And Fast
- 16-ounce design reduces arm fatigue
- Spiral flute clears dust well, keeps bit cool
- Works with all SDS-Plus rotary hammers
The Downside
- Some buyers report bending on first use
- Durability is mixed for heavy rebar work
Ideal for: DIY users who need a lightweight, budget-friendly bit for concrete block and brick.
Not ideal for: Drilling through thick reinforced concrete full of rebar — the Rebar Demon is tougher.
6. 1-1/8 x 18 inch SDS Plus Masonry Drill Bit (GRIXLEN)
A 2-flute bit with a carbide tip that handles concrete, brick, and stone.
GRIXLEN offers a 1-1/8 x 18 inch SDS Plus bit with a carbide tip and alloy steel body. The effective length is 15.6 inches inside the 18-inch total. Owners mention it works perfectly with a Hilti hammer drill and shows no signs of premature wear. One owner said it drilled super fast in a hammer drill, though it is too early to judge long-term durability.
What people like most is the quality — 24 owners call it out for solid build and a good price. The mixed feedback is on drill performance, with some saying it does not drill through concrete effectively. Given the 2-flute design, this is better suited for brick and block concrete rather than heavy reinforced pours. A solid mid-range option for general masonry work.
Solid all-rounder: You need a 1-1/8 inch bit for concrete, brick, and stone, and you want something that costs less than the premium models but still feels well-made.
Reach for it: Your work is mostly concrete block, brick walls, and light stone.
pass on it if: You regularly drill into rebar-heavy concrete — the 4-cutter Diablo will last longer.
7. Wensilon Concrete Drill Bit 1-1/8″ X 18″
A cross-type double thread design that digs into stone and concrete.
Wensilon makes this 1-1/8″ X 18″ bit with a cross-type double thread and an alloy steel body. The total length is 18 inches with a 16-inch effective length. The unique ripple design is meant to drill faster and help stone powder peel off the wall. One owner used it to widen a stone wall hole for a larger spigot body, working with a standard Bosch drill (no hammer drill) and reporting the cavitation enlarged the hole to about 1-3/4 inches. Another drilled 16 holes in sonotube footers for anchors and said the bits are still usable.
The feedback highlights functionality and build quality — owners find it well-made and functional. Value for money is also praised. Durability is mixed, with some reporting it broke after a few holes. One owner noted dust removal is worse than a Milwaukee bit, but the trade-off makes sense for budget-conscious buyers.
Cost-effective driller: You are doing a few deep holes in stone or concrete and want to spend as little as possible. Just keep in mind that durability is not its strongest suit.
Buy it for: One-off projects where you need a 16-inch effective length bit without paying premium prices.
Avoid for: Heavy production drilling or reinforced concrete work.
8. 1-1/8″ Dry Diamond Core Bit w/Pilot for Brick & Block (EDiamondTools)
A diamond-embedded core bit for drilling clean holes in brick and block.
This is not a standard carbide drill bit — it is a diamond core bit designed specifically for brick and building block. The #30/40 diamond grit gives it a cutting edge that lasts, and the 9.5-inch drilling depth is enough for most wall penetrations. The 1/2-inch shank lets you use it with a standard drill, but you must use rotary mode only (no hammer setting). A contractor reports it outperforms Spyder and Bosch on brick and block.
The most-discussed aspect is functionality: owners find it works well on brick walls, cutting through concrete block like butter. Quality also gets high marks. Durability is mixed, with some saying it holds up well while others note the diamonds wear down. Ease-of-use is also mixed — some say it is easy to assemble, others say starting the hole is tricky. Use a pilot bit to start, then remove it for the core cut.
Brick And Block Expert
- Diamond grit cuts clean holes in soft masonry
- 9.5-inch drilling depth
- Includes pilot bit adapter for starting
The Limits
- Not for concrete with rebar or hard stone
- Rotary mode only — no hammer setting
Reach for it when: You need a clean core hole in brick or block for a vent or pipe.
Look elsewhere for: Drilling into concrete — standard carbide bits are the right tool.
9. SALI Diamond Core Drill Bits 1 1/8″ Diameter 10″ Depth
A diamond core bit with adapters for dry drilling into concrete and brick.
SALI provides a 1 1/8 inch diamond core bit with a 10-inch drilling depth. It comes with a 1/2-inch hex shank adapter and a 5/8-11 thread male to SDS Plus adapter, so you can fit it in a range of drills. The laser-welded segments and premium steel body are designed for dry drilling into cured concrete, red brick, tile masonry, and reinforced materials. Customers note drilling a 4.5-inch thick cement garage floor easily and quickly, with plenty of life left in the bit. Another drilled 4-inch thick concrete in less than 5 minutes by keeping the bit wet and cool.
The most-discussed positive is functionality — owners find it works well for drilling through brick walls. However, durability gets negative marks, with several reporting that the teeth break off easily. Quality and value for money are mixed. One owner notes the bit slips in the drill chuck and needs frequent tightening. Use water generously to prevent overheating.
Dry diamond option: You need a core bit for dry drilling through concrete, brick, or masonry, and you want adapters included. Be prepared to keep it cool with water and tighten the chuck often.
Best for: One-off dry coring jobs in concrete where you can manage the bit with water cooling.
Not the best for: Heavy daily use where long-term durability is a must.
Understanding the Specs
Shank: SDS-Plus vs. SDS-Max vs. Spline
The shank is the engine of the bit — it is the part that connects to your hammer drill. SDS-Plus is the most widespread standard, fitting most mid-size rotary hammers. SDS-Max is thicker and built for larger, more powerful machines used in heavy construction. Spline is a different system used by Bosch and some Hilti tools. Using the wrong shank means the bit will not lock in place, so always match your hammer’s chuck type.
Carbide Tip and Cutter Count
The tip does all the fracture work. A standard 2-cutter bit splits concrete well for plain jobs. A 4-cutter bit spreads the impact across more edges, which improves speed and extends lifespan, especially when you hit steel reinforcement. Dura-Carbide and tungsten-carbide tips resist heat up to 1800°F. This keeps the edge sharp long enough to drill dozens of holes without a trip to the grinder.
FAQ
Will an SDS-Plus bit fit my SDS-Max rotary hammer?
What is the difference between a 2-cutter and a 4-cutter masonry bit?
How do I know if my drill bit is designed for rebar?
Can I use a diamond core bit in a standard drill?
What is working length versus total length?
How long should a 1 1/8 masonry drill bit last?
Can I sharpen a masonry drill bit?
What is the best RPM for drilling concrete with a 1 1/8 bit?
SDS Plus vs. SDS Max vs. Spline: which is best for a masonry drill bit?
Do I need water when using a diamond core bit?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most people, the 1 1 8 masonry drill bit winner is the Diablo Rebar Demon because it combines a 4-cutter full carbide head, 1800°F heat tolerance, and a 16-inch working length into a bit that handles rebar without a second thought. If you want a budget-friendly option that still handles concrete and rebar, grab the E&K SDS Plus. And for heavy-duty, high-volume drilling with an SDS-Max hammer, the Diablo Rebar Demon SDS-Max is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, Trending Car earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.