Surface Set Bits are characterised by a single layer of diamonds, set on the working face of the bit, in a specific pattern. A wide range of standard bits manufactured by Asahi includes a variety of bit profiles, diamond grades and diamond sizes, designed to provide the most efficient cutting for the formation being drilled.

Surface set bits can be used to drill the entire range of rock formations, although advances in Impregnated bit technology have made these bits more effective in harder formations.

Drilling with a surface set bit generally continues until a substantial increase in required bit weight indicates that the diamonds have become "blunt" or broken, requiring the bit to be pulled out either discarded or returned to the manufacturer for salvage.