Research objective is to work out a method of evaluating the performance of roller-cone drill bits by kinetic criteria.Introduction. It is difficult to determine the absolute criteria for the performance of rock cutting tools. Therefore, the relative values of wear resistance of the cutting structure of roller-cone bits and their relative mechanical rates of drilling are adopted as process criteria.Methods of research. The calculation and analysis of kinetic criteria for evaluating the performance of drill bits have significant differences. Taking them into account is important when studying various modifications of rock cutting tools. The set of kinetic criteria gives a picture of the relative performance of the bit using the model of the well bottom close to the real one. The set of kinetic characteristics (criteria) is conventionally called the kinetic datasheet of the drill bit. The key points of constructing an analytical model of the drill bit operation on the deformable well bottom have been considered.Scope of results. This technique provides for a comparative evaluation of roller-cone drill bits of various modifications, allows for finding feedback, i.e. searching for the appropriate combination of geometrical parameters of the rock cutting tool according to given kinetic characteristics. The versatile approach intended for use in the study of the performance of rock cutting tools allows the most complete and accurate evaluation of the influence of one factor or another on the final result.