Systems and methods presented herein include sidewall coring tool assemblies used to return core plugs of rock from a sidewall of a wellbore as part of a data collection exercise for exploration and production of hydrocarbons. A coring bit and a coring shaft of the present disclosure allow space for cuttings to move away from the bit face when drilling into a formation. In addition, certain embodiments include a plurality of inlets disposed circumferentially on an external surface at a first axial end of the coring shaft, a plurality of internal grooves disposed on an internal surface of the coring shaft, and/or a plurality of fins disposed on the external surface to direct flow of drilling and debris away from the coring bit. In addition to providing more space for cuttings to move away from the coring bit, the torque needed to drive the bit is lessened as the surface area of the bit contacting or engaging the formation is reduced.