Step Drill Bit · 1/8 in to 1/2 in, 13 Steps · 1/4 in Quick-Change Hex Shank · IDEAL Industries 35-521
What this product is for
The IDEAL Industries 35-521 is a quick-change step drill bit for drilling and enlarging holes from 1/8 in to 1/2 in (3.2 mm to 12.7 mm). It is commonly used by electricians and panel builders for sheet metal, plastic, boxes, cabinets and enclosures where multiple hole sizes are needed from one bit.
Use for
- Electrical panels, junction boxes and control cabinets
- Thin-gauge steel, stainless steel, brass, cast iron, plastic and wood where a step bit is suitable
- Fast bit changes in impact drivers or drills with a 1/4 in hex quick-change holder
- Cleanly stepping up hole sizes without changing between multiple twist bits
Avoid for
- Thick structural steel or heavy plate where a hole saw, annular cutter or knockout punch is more appropriate
- Applications requiring a single exact finished hole beyond 1/2 in (12.7 mm)
- Materials and thicknesses outside the tool manufacturer's intended use
Best for
Best for service electricians, maintenance teams and shop technicians who need one compact bit for common small hole sizes in boxes and light-gauge materials. The quick-change shank helps when moving between drilling, fastening and deburring tasks.
Installed in
Typically used in the field or shop on panel work, device boxes, cabinets, sheet-metal enclosures and retrofit electrical work. It is a tool accessory rather than a permanently installed product.
Why this product exists
This bit combines 13 hole sizes in one tool to reduce bit changes and speed up repetitive drilling. The split-point tip is designed for faster starts, while the double-flute geometry helps produce smoother cuts and chip removal.
Typical trade guidance: step bits are commonly chosen for thin materials where clean enlargement matters more than deep drilling. Actual cutting speed and finish depend on material type, thickness, lubrication, drill speed and operator technique.
Compared with similar products
Compared with standard twist bits, this step bit covers multiple diameters from one tool and is better suited to enlarging holes in thin material. Compared with larger step bits, the 35-521 focuses on smaller hole sizes up to 1/2 in (12.7 mm), which suits many box and enclosure tasks. The 1/4 in quick-change hex shank also makes it more convenient for impact-driver users than round-shank step bits.
Specifications
- Manufacturer part number: 35-521
- Brand: IDEAL Industries
- Product type: Quick-change step drill bit
- Hole size range: 1/8 in to 1/2 in (3.2 mm to 12.7 mm)
- Number of steps / hole sizes: 13
- Step increment: 1/32 in (0.8 mm)
- Step height / thickness: 1/8 in (3.2 mm)
- Shank size: 1/4 in hex (6.35 mm)
- Tip style: Split-point, self-starting
- Flute design: Double flute
- Material: High-speed steel (HSS), double-tempered
- Finish / coating: Black oxide
- Impact rated: Yes
- Typical applications: Sheet metal, stainless steel, brass, cast iron, carbon steel, plastic and wood
- Warranty: Limited 1 year
Minimum Order $20
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(Contractor Accounts)
Standard Shipping-Free on orders over $249 in Metropolitan Areas / $499 in Rural Areas
(All Other Accounts)
Standard Shipping-Free on orders over $499
Minimum Order Is $20
Freight Surcharge Apply To Oversized/Over-Weight Items(Not Limited To):
- PVC and EMT Pipe
- Wire and Cable
- Items over 48 inches in length
Surcharges are applied to items on an individual basis regardless if the rest of the order meets prepaid levels. If a freight line appears at the time of check out it only applies to the Items carrying a surcharge and not the entire basket of goods.
Shipping Options:
- A courier can deliver to your home, office, or your job site
- Pick up at local depot near you (applies to the following locations)
Edmonton Warehouse 8135 Roper Rd Edmonton, T6E 6S4, AB
Burnaby Warehouse 5608 Goring St Burnaby, V5B 3A3, BC
Orders are typically delivered within two to eleven business days. The transit time begins the first full shipping day after your order leaves our warehouse. Please allow an additional 2-5 days for delivery to remote locations, additional fees may apply.
THE FOLLOWING APPLIES TO STANDARD SHIPPING OPTIONS
- We cannot deliver to P.O. boxes.
- A signature may be required for shipments over $500.
- No weekend delivery.
- Wire & cable, EMT or PVC conduit, tube lamps 4ft or greater, and 10ft ground rods & mast pipes have special conditions.
Standard Shipping cost on orders less than $499
Total shipping cost = "Per Shipment" cost + "Per Item" cost. The "per item" cost is listed in terms of price per pound.
Product Group | Per Shipment* | Per Item |
|---|---|---|
Boxes | $6.99 | $1.49/lb |
Conduit & Raceway | $149.99 | $2.49/lb |
Connectors & Fittings | $5.99 | $1.19/lb |
Data & Structured Home | $5.99 | $1.19/lb |
Distribution Equipment | $5.99 | $1.19/lb |
Emergency Lighting | $6.99 | $1.49/lb |
Heating & Ventilation | $6.99 | $1.49/lb |
Lighting Controls | $5.99 | $1.19/lb |
Lighting Indoor | $6.99 | $1.49/lb |
Lighting Outdoor | $6.99 | $1.49/lb |
Tools | $4.99 | $.99/lb |
Wire & Cable | $49.99 | $2.29/lb |
Wiring Devices | $5.99 | $1.19/lb |
Any combination of the above items | Highest applicable per-shipment charge | As above |
Effective Date: August, 15, 1998
At Evolt Electrical Supply, customer satisfaction is our top priority. Please review our return policy below:
Returns
Defective Items:
- If you receive a defective item, you may return it for a replacement or refund within 30 days of purchase.
- To initiate a return, please contact our customer service team with your order number and a description of the defect.
Non-Defective Items:
- We do not accept returns for non-defective items. All sales are final once the product is shipped or ordered from the manufacturer. In certain circumstances we may amend this so feel free to contact our customer service team.
Return Process
Authorization:
- Before returning any items, you must obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number from our customer service team. Returns without an RMA number will not be accepted.
- Backordered items can not be cancelled if the item is in transit from the manufacturer, contact us to review.
Shipping:
- Customers are responsible for the return shipping costs. We recommend using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance.
Condition:
- Returned items must be in their original packaging and condition. Any items returned damaged due to improper packaging or misuse will not be eligible for a refund or replacement.
Refunds
- Once we receive and inspect your returned item, we will notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund.
- Approved refunds will be processed within [7] business days and a credit will automatically be applied to your original method of payment.




