I have another 3 inch drill bit that is almost identical except for the triangular point on the end instead of the conical one on this new one. Both do a good job in soft, buildable soil, but in hard soil this 3-inch conical auger is difficult to control and dig. I worked with this kit for a few hours this morning adding fertilizer to the root zone of the plants and while my old 3" triangular tipped auger dug right in, the 3" cone auger required a 1, 5 inch drill bit for drilling . Pilot hole for 3" conical tipped bit. The 1.5" bit works well in every situation I've encountered and the Jobe fertilizer stick can be inserted into the hole made with it and can be drilled with a small bit easily inserted to a depth of twice the size of the rod.