Drilling through metal and steel requires specialized tools. Using the wrong drill bit can lead to frustration, damaged materials, and even injury. The best drill bits for metal and steel are engineered with superior materials and coatings to withstand the heat and friction generated during drilling, ensuring clean, precise holes and extended bit life. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast tackling a home project or a professional fabricator working with tough alloys, selecting the right drill bit is paramount for efficiency and durability. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options, highlighting top-performing sets that offer exceptional quality and value for drilling into various types of metal and steel.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bits For Metal And Steel Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel
The DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set is an outstanding choice for anyone needing to drill into metal and steel. These bits are engineered for longevity and precision, featuring a robust titanium nitride coating that significantly enhances their durability and drilling performance. They are perfect for daily use, offering reliability across various metalworking tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride Coating: Provides a hard, heat-resistant layer for extended bit life.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip: Designed to start on contact, preventing bit walking and creating clean, accurate holes.
- ✓ 21-Piece Set: Offers a comprehensive range of common sizes for versatile applications.
- ✓ Optimized Design: Ensures outstanding durability and reliable performance in demanding conditions.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this DEWALT set because of its exceptional balance of durability, precision, and value. The titanium nitride coating is a game-changer for drilling through tough materials, allowing bits to stay sharp longer and resist heat buildup. The pilot point tip is also a major advantage, ensuring accurate starts without the need for a center punch.
Best For
This set is best for general contractors, serious DIYers, and professionals who frequently drill into various types of metal and steel, including mild steel, aluminum, and cast iron.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability due to TiN coating.
- Pilot point tip prevents walking and ensures precise starts.
- Wide range of sizes for versatility.
- Reliable performance for consistent results.
Cons:
- Not ideal for extremely hardened or stainless steel.
- Case closure could be more robust for heavy use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is an excellent drill bit set from DeWalt. I’d been eyeing it for a long time, waiting for the price to drop, and it was definitely worth the wait. Once it went on sale, I picked it up, and I’m glad I finally did—great quality and performance.”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using these DEWALT bits for a few months now, and they hold up incredibly well against different metals. The titanium coating really makes a difference; they cut smoothly and haven’t dulled yet. A solid investment for any toolkit.”
2. Crosstar Titanium Aluminum Nitride M35 Cobalt Drill Bits for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel
The Crosstar Titanium Aluminum Nitride M35 Cobalt Drill Bits are engineered for the toughest drilling challenges, particularly in hardened metal and stainless steel. Combining M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel with an advanced TiAlN Nano-coating, these bits offer industry-leading durability and cutting speed. Their unique design ensures efficient chip removal and reduces breakage, making them a top choice for professionals.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel: Contains 5% Cobalt, providing extreme heat resistance up to 1200°F and extending bit life by 5X.
- ✓ TiAlN Nano-coating: Achieves 89HRC hardness, ensuring superior wear resistance and faster cutting.
- ✓ Triple-Flute Design: Enhances cutting speed and offers 40% better chip removal, preventing clogging and breakage.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip: Allows for precision drilling without pre-punching, even through hardened materials like 1/4″ stainless steel in seconds.
Why We Recommend It
This Crosstar set is our Editor’s Choice for its exceptional performance on notoriously difficult materials. The combination of M35 Cobalt steel and the TiAlN coating makes these bits incredibly tough and efficient. The triple-flute design is a standout feature, drastically improving chip evacuation, which is crucial for deep or continuous drilling in metal.
Best For
Ideal for metal fabricators, industrial users, and advanced DIYers who regularly work with hardened metals, stainless steel, cast iron, and other challenging alloys where standard bits quickly fail.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched durability and heat resistance for tough metals.
- Cuts significantly faster than standard bits.
- Excellent chip removal prevents clogging and bit failure.
- Highly accurate self-centering tip.
Cons:
- Higher price point due to specialized materials.
- May be overkill for softer metals or occasional use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The half inch bit I used yesterday on soft iron hinges and 2 inch angle iron. Amazed how sharp these bits are! Never seen the most perfect curly shavings as it cut through the metal with ease. Don’t know how long these will last but boy am I impressed so far. These were used in a cordless drill.”
Customer Review: “These cobalt bits are truly impressive. I’ve tackled some thick stainless steel with them, and they perform flawlessly, creating clean holes every time. The TiAlN coating seems to keep them cool and sharp, making quick work of jobs that would usually wear out other bits.”
3. toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel, Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated with Bullet Case
For those seeking excellent performance without breaking the bank, the toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel stands out as our Best Budget pick. This 21-piece set combines the resilience of cobalt with a Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coating, making it surprisingly effective for various metal drilling tasks. It delivers significant value for its price, offering durability and sharpness typically found in more expensive sets.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cobalt Material: Enhances heat and abrasion resistance for drilling through tougher metals.
- ✓ Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) Coating: Increases surface hardness to 89HRC and provides excellent heat resistance, extending bit life.
- ✓ Comprehensive 21-Piece Set: Includes common sizes from 1/16″ to 1/4″, with multiples of smaller, frequently used bits.
- ✓ Bullet Design Case: Provides convenient and organized storage for the bits.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the toolant Cobalt set as the best budget option because it delivers a fantastic balance of material quality and coating technology at an accessible price. The TiAlN coating, in particular, is a premium feature not often seen in this price range, providing significant improvements in cutting speed and bit longevity for metal applications.
Best For
This set is best for DIYers, hobbyists, and light-duty professional use where drilling into mild steel, aluminum, brass, and even some stainless steel is required, all while keeping costs down.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a cobalt/TiAlN coated set.
- Good durability and heat resistance for various metals.
- Comprehensive size selection for common tasks.
- Practical and organized storage case.
Cons:
- May not match the extreme performance of premium M35 cobalt bits for heavy industrial use.
- Bullet case design might not be for everyone.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was skeptical about a budget-friendly cobalt set, but these toolant bits exceeded my expectations. They cut through galvanized steel and aluminum like butter. The TiAlN coating is definitely doing its job, as they’ve stayed sharp through several projects.”
Customer Review: “For the price, you can’t beat this set. I’ve used them on some mild steel fabrication and they perform admirably. The variety of sizes means I always have the right bit on hand, and the case keeps them tidy.”
4. Cobalt M35 Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel, 1/16-3/8 Inch
The Cobalt M35 Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel offers a specialized solution for tackling the toughest materials. Crafted from premium M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel, these bits are designed to deliver exceptional hardness and longevity, outperforming average titanium-coated HSS bits by a significant margin. Their fully ground process ensures maximum wear resistance and consistent sharpness.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt Material: Provides superior hardness (up to 67 HRC) and heat resistance for demanding applications, lasting up to 12 times longer than standard HSS bits.
- ✓ Hardened Full Grinding Process: Enhances wear resistance and ensures bits remain sharp, even when cutting through abrasive materials.
- ✓ Versatile Application: Effectively drills through stainless steel, cast iron, zinc alloy, titanium, aluminum, and other hard metals.
- ✓ Robust Packaging: Comes in a hard, thick plastic box with individually bagged drills for organized and secure storage.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this M35 Cobalt set for its uncompromising performance on very hard materials. The high cobalt content and the full grinding process make these bits incredibly durable and sharp, allowing for faster and more efficient drilling. The thoughtful packaging also ensures your investment is well-protected and easily organized.
Best For
This set is best for professional machinists, welders, and serious enthusiasts who frequently work with difficult-to-drill materials like thick stainless steel, tool steel, and other hardened alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional hardness and durability for hardened metals.
- Significantly longer lifespan compared to HSS bits.
- Maintains sharpness over extended use.
- Well-organized and protected storage case.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to HSS or titanium-coated HSS sets.
- Requires proper drilling techniques (lower RPM, coolant) for optimal performance.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Had a lug nut stripped. Only way off was to drill lug bolt. These bit eight right through it.”
Customer Review: “Good quality bits even though from offshore. Stay sharp for a long time.”
5. DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bit Set with 135-Degree Split Point for Metal and Steel
The DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bit Set is a reliable and versatile option for drilling into various materials, including metal and steel. Featuring a 135-degree split point tip, these bits are designed to reduce walking and ensure quick, clean starts. Constructed from High-Speed Steel with a tapered web design, they offer an excellent balance of durability and resistance to breakage, making them a solid addition to any toolkit.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point Tip: Effectively reduces bit walking for precise hole starts without a pilot hole.
- ✓ High-Speed Steel Construction: Durable material suitable for drilling in plastic, wood, and various metals.
- ✓ Tapered Web Design: Provides extreme durability and enhances resistance to breakage, even under demanding conditions.
- ✓ 14-Piece Set: Offers a good selection of commonly used drill bit sizes for everyday projects.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this DEWALT set for its robust build and the highly effective 135-degree split point design. This feature alone makes a huge difference in user experience, especially when starting holes in metal, as it prevents frustrating bit wandering. The high-speed steel construction ensures good longevity for general-purpose metal drilling tasks.
Best For
This set is best for homeowners, general DIY projects, and light professional use where versatility across different materials (wood, plastic, and various metals including mild steel) is needed, and precise starting is a priority.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for starting holes accurately, preventing walking.
- Good versatility across multiple material types.
- Durable construction resists breakage.
- Recognized DEWALT quality and reliability.
Cons:
- May not be as heat-resistant as titanium or cobalt bits for continuous heavy-duty metal drilling.
- Case closure can be a bit tricky.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently added the DEWALT 14‑piece drill bit set to my toolkit, and it’s been putting in the work. The split‑point tips drill cleanly without walking, making it easy to start holes in plastic, wood, and metal—all without a pilot drill. Made from high‑speed steel with a durable black-and-gold coati”
Customer Review: “Amazing drill bits for the price! Have used on wood, metal, and plastic. Clean cutting, stayed sharp so far. The case has an odd closure, but otherwise I love these drill bits!”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bits For Metal And Steel
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best drill bits for metal and steel, several critical factors come into play. The material composition of the bit is paramount; High-Speed Steel (HSS) bits are common for softer metals, while Cobalt (M35 or M42) bits are superior for harder materials like stainless steel and hardened alloys due to their heat resistance. Coatings such as Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) further enhance hardness, reduce friction, and extend bit life. The point angle, especially a 135-degree split point, is crucial for preventing bit walking and ensuring precise starts without a pilot hole. Shank type (round or hex) and whether you need a comprehensive set or individual bits for specific tasks also influence your choice.
Budget Planning
Your budget will often dictate the type of drill bits you can acquire. Basic HSS sets are the most affordable and suitable for occasional light-duty metalwork. Stepping up to titanium-coated HSS bits offers a significant improvement in durability and cutting performance for a moderate price, representing excellent value for many DIYers. For serious professionals or frequent work with hardened metals, investing in cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42) is highly recommended, despite their higher initial cost. These bits offer superior longevity and performance, which often translates to long-term savings by reducing replacement frequency and improving efficiency. Consider your most common drilling tasks and the types of metal you’ll encounter to make an informed decision on where to allocate your budget.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best drill bits for metal and steel ultimately comes down to matching the bit’s capabilities with your project’s demands. For general-purpose tasks and softer metals, quality titanium-coated HSS bits like those from DEWALT offer excellent performance. When tackling challenging materials such as hardened steel or stainless steel, cobalt bits, especially those with advanced coatings like TiAlN, are indispensable for their superior heat resistance and durability. Always prioritize bits with a 135-degree split point for accurate starts. By understanding these key features and considering your specific needs, you can select a drill bit set that provides reliable, efficient, and long-lasting performance for all your metal drilling projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best type of drill bit for metal?
A: For general metal drilling, High-Speed Steel (HSS) with a Titanium Nitride (TiN) coating offers good durability and performance. For harder metals like stainless steel or hardened alloys, Cobalt (M35 or M42) drill bits are superior due to their higher heat resistance and hardness.
Q: Can I use regular drill bits on stainless steel?
A: While you might be able to drill a shallow hole, regular HSS drill bits are not recommended for stainless steel. Stainless steel is much harder and generates more heat, which can quickly dull and break standard bits. You should use cobalt drill bits or carbide-tipped bits specifically designed for hardened metals.
Q: What does “split point” mean on a drill bit?
A: A split point tip (often 135-degree) on a drill bit means the very tip is ground to create two additional cutting edges. This design helps the bit start drilling on contact, preventing it from “walking” or wandering across the material surface, especially on curved or slick surfaces, and eliminates the need for a center punch.
Q: How do I prevent drill bits from breaking when drilling metal?
A: To prevent breakage, use the correct bit type for the material, apply steady and even pressure, use a slower drill speed for harder metals, and use a cutting fluid or lubricant. Avoid excessive side pressure or bending the bit while drilling.
Q: How do coatings like Titanium Nitride help?
A: Coatings like Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) increase the surface hardness of the drill bit, reduce friction, and improve heat resistance. This allows the bit to cut faster, stay sharper for longer, and extend its overall lifespan, especially in abrasive or high-temperature drilling applications.
Selecting the right drill bits for metal and steel is a crucial decision for any project involving these robust materials. From the general utility of titanium-coated HSS bits to the formidable strength of cobalt alloys, our guide has highlighted options that excel in various scenarios. Remember to consider the material you’ll be drilling, the frequency of use, and your budget to make the best choice. Invest in quality bits like those reviewed above, and you’ll experience cleaner cuts, greater efficiency, and lasting durability. Don’t let your next metalworking project be hindered by inadequate tools. Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons to find the perfect drill bit set for your needs today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
