Drilling through aluminum can be a surprisingly tricky task if you don’t have the right tools. Its unique properties – being a soft, lightweight, and often gummy metal – demand specific characteristics from your drill bits to prevent issues like material sticking, burring, or even breaking the bit. To achieve clean, precise holes and ensure efficiency in your projects, investing in the best drill bit for aluminium is absolutely crucial. This comprehensive guide reviews the top options available, helping you find the perfect set to tackle your aluminium drilling needs with confidence.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bit For Aluminium Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 60-Piece HSS M2 Drill Bit Set for Aluminium, 135° Split Point, Black/Gold Coated.
This 60-piece HSS M2 drill bit set is an excellent choice for anyone regularly working with aluminum. Featuring a durable black and gold coating, these bits are designed for enhanced corrosion resistance and longevity. The 135° split point is a standout feature, preventing bit walking and ensuring quick, accurate starts on various metal surfaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-quality HSS M2 construction for superior durability.
- ✓ Black and gold coating offers enhanced corrosion resistance and reduced friction.
- ✓ 135° split point tip prevents walking and allows for faster, more precise drilling.
- ✓ Comprehensive set covering wire gauge sizes from #1 to #60 for wide application.
- ✓ Optimized drill bit geometry for efficient cutting in hard metals, including aluminum.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this set for its versatility and robust construction. The sheer number of sizes ensures you always have the right bit, while the M2 HSS material and black/gold coating promise excellent performance and a long lifespan, even with frequent use on aluminum and other metals.
Best For
This set is best for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals who require a comprehensive range of durable bits for frequent drilling in aluminum, as well as mild steel and other common metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extensive 60-piece set covers a wide range of sizes.
- Durable HSS M2 steel construction with protective black/gold coating.
- 135° split point ensures accurate, walk-free starts.
- Good value for a large, capable drill bit assortment.
Cons:
- Storage case can be flimsy, leading to bits getting dislodged.
- Accuracy for the smallest wire gauge sizes might vary slightly for precision work.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “First, you’re not missing any bits. People are lazy and the case sucks so after shipping, you’re going to have a bunch of the teeny bits stuck under the case ‘shelves’. Dig around, they are all there.Accuracy to wire gauge size is decent. Definitely not perfect, but good enough for a budget set. Not”
Customer Review: “The bits seem high quality. The case isn’t bad. I like the way the bits are easily accessible and identified by number.”
2. COMOWARE 30-Piece Titanium HSS Hex Shank Drill Bits for Aluminum, 1/16 to 1/2 Inch
The COMOWARE 30-piece Titanium HSS Hex Shank Drill Bit set is engineered for speed and durability, making it an excellent option for drilling aluminum. Its titanium coating enhances hardness and reduces friction, leading to a faster, cooler drilling process. The 1/4 inch hex shank design ensures quick and secure changes in impact drivers and standard drills alike.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Classic HSS construction with a wear-resistant titanium coating for extended life.
- ✓ Hardened and honed cutting edge for sharp, efficient drilling in aluminum.
- ✓ Two-flute form efficiently clears chips and debris, reducing heat and friction.
- ✓ 1/4 inch hex shank offers quick changes and secure grip in impact drivers.
- ✓ Comprehensive size range from 1/16 to 1/2 inch to cover most drilling tasks.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the COMOWARE set for its excellent balance of performance and convenience. The titanium coating and effective flute design make it adept at drilling aluminum, while the hex shank adds a layer of versatility, perfect for users who frequently switch between drill types.
Best For
This set is best for DIYers and professionals who need a versatile and efficient set of titanium drill bits for aluminum and general metalworking, especially those favoring impact drivers for their quick-change capabilities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Titanium coating increases bit hardness and lifespan.
- Hex shank design for fast and secure tool changes.
- Efficient chip clearance reduces heat buildup.
- Good range of sizes for various projects.
Cons:
- Not ideal for extremely hard alloys beyond typical metal drilling tasks.
- The case could be more robust for long-term organization.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These are excellent drill bits that have a hex shank so they work in a regular drill or impact driver. I used them to drill through aluminum and they worked great.”
Customer Review: “God these for my son because I broke one of his old ones. He was very pleased to get these Titanium drill bits. A good product at a good value.”
3. Four Spiral Flute Cobalt Step Drill Bit, 1/4-3/4 Inch, Best for Aluminum with 1/4 Hex Shank
This Four Spiral Flute Cobalt Step Drill Bit is specifically designed to excel when drilling through aluminum and other metals. Made from M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel, it offers exceptional durability and heat resistance. The unique four-spiral flute design significantly enhances stability and chip evacuation, ensuring smoother and cleaner holes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel construction for superior hardness and wear resistance.
- ✓ Four spiral flute design improves drilling stability and efficient chip removal.
- ✓ Wide size range from 1/4″ to 3/4″ in a single bit for versatility.
- ✓ 1/4 inch hex shank ensures compatibility with impact drivers and quick changes.
- ✓ Ideal for creating clean, burr-free holes in aluminum without changing bits.
Why We Recommend It
For those needing to create varied hole sizes in aluminum without a full set of bits, this step drill is a fantastic, budget-friendly option. Its M35 Cobalt construction and spiral flutes make it highly effective for clean and stable drilling, significantly reducing the risk of material binding.
Best For
This step drill bit is best for automotive work, fabrication, or any project requiring multiple hole sizes in aluminum sheeting or thin metal, especially when using an impact driver for convenience and speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cobalt steel offers excellent heat and abrasion resistance.
- Four spiral flutes provide smooth, stable drilling and better chip clearance.
- One bit can create multiple hole sizes, saving time and storage.
- Hex shank is perfect for impact driver use.
Cons:
- Single bit design means limited individual size selection for specific tasks.
- Not suitable for drilling extremely deep holes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Needed to drill some holes and wanted to use my impact, has the locking style bit for impact and works great.”
Customer Review: “I’ve used this step drill on several aluminum projects and it consistently delivers clean, perfectly sized holes without any fuss. Great value for the performance.”
4. M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel Drill Bits for Aluminium, Stainless Steel, and Hardened Metals.
When you need a drill bit for aluminium that can also handle tougher materials, the M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel set is a prime contender. These industrial-grade bits are significantly harder than standard HSS, making them suitable not just for aluminum but also for stainless steel and other hardened metals. Their fully ground spiral flutes ensure precise and efficient drilling performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Made from M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel, offering superior hardness and heat resistance.
- ✓ Suitable for a wide range of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and cast iron.
- ✓ Fully ground spiral groove design ensures fast chip evacuation and reduces friction.
- ✓ Precise 135° split point prevents bit walking for accurate starts.
- ✓ Comes in a set of 16 common jobber length sizes for everyday and heavy-duty tasks.
Why We Recommend It
This set is an excellent investment for those who frequently work with a variety of metals, not just aluminum. The M35 Cobalt composition provides outstanding durability and cutting power, making light work of challenging drilling applications while still performing admirably on softer metals like aluminum.
Best For
This set is best for professional fabricators, machinists, and serious DIYers who require durable, high-performance drill bits for aluminum, stainless steel, and other hard-to-drill metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability due to M35 Cobalt content.
- Versatile for drilling both soft and hard metals.
- Fully ground flutes enhance drilling efficiency and chip removal.
- 135° split point ensures precise hole starting.
Cons:
- Higher price point than standard HSS sets.
- Cobalt bits can be more brittle if misused (e.g., without proper cooling).
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I leave very few reviews, yet want all to know these are excellent quality, sharp bits that work exceedingly well for my use in drilling starter holes in stainless steel. Use 1/4″ bits of the same brand to make my final hole.”
Customer Review: “Quality drill bits! I was installing a boat lift in my slip. Normal bits burned easily drilling thru galvanized steel. These were recommended to me. Only burned one.”
5. DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set, Best for Aluminum
The DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set brings professional-grade reliability to your workshop. Featuring a robust titanium nitride coating, these bits offer enhanced durability and a longer lifespan, crucial for consistent performance when drilling through aluminum and other metals. The pilot point tip is designed for clean, precise holes with minimal walking.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride (TiN) coating for increased durability and reduced friction.
- ✓ Pilot Point tip design for accurate starts and cleaner holes.
- ✓ Prevents bit walking, allowing for greater control and precision.
- ✓ Optimized flute design for efficient material removal, reducing heat buildup in aluminum.
- ✓ Comes in a durable tough case for organized storage and easy transport.
Why We Recommend It
DEWALT is a trusted name in tools, and this drill bit set lives up to the reputation. The combination of the TiN coating and the innovative pilot point makes these bits exceptionally effective for drilling aluminum, delivering clean holes consistently. The robust case adds significant value, protecting your investment.
Best For
This set is best for general contractors, serious DIYers, and trade professionals who demand reliable, precise, and durable drill bits for aluminum, wood, and plastic, with the convenience of a sturdy storage case.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability and long life thanks to TiN coating.
- Pilot Point tip ensures accurate, clean holes without walking.
- Comes in a high-quality, durable storage case.
- Reliable performance from a reputable brand.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to some entry-level HSS sets.
- Not specifically designed for extremely hard or abrasive materials like cobalt bits.
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 needed a reliable set for various home projects, and these DeWalt bits have not disappointed. They cut through aluminum cleanly and maintain their sharpness project after project. Highly recommend.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bit For Aluminium
Choosing the best drill bit for aluminium involves understanding the unique challenges of this soft, ductile metal. Unlike steel, aluminum tends to gall and stick to drill bits if not handled correctly, leading to messy holes and premature bit wear. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider to ensure you select the perfect bits for your projects.
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting drill bits for aluminium, several characteristics are paramount for optimal performance:
- ✓ Material: High-Speed Steel (HSS) is generally the minimum requirement. For enhanced durability and heat resistance, especially with thicker aluminum or frequent use, Titanium-coated HSS or Cobalt (M35 or M42) drill bits are superior choices. Cobalt bits are particularly good as they can withstand higher temperatures without losing hardness, which is beneficial when drilling softer metals like aluminum where friction can generate significant heat.
- ✓ Point Angle: A 118° to 135° split point is highly recommended. A 135° split point is ideal because it allows for immediate, accurate starts without “walking” or requiring a center punch. This is especially useful on smooth aluminum surfaces.
- ✓ Flute Design: Bits with a larger helix angle or “fast spiral” are generally better for aluminum. This design helps evacuate chips more efficiently, preventing them from gumming up in the flutes and sticking to the bit, which is a common problem with aluminum. A polished or coated flute also aids in smoother chip flow.
- ✓ Coating: Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Black Oxide coatings can improve surface hardness, reduce friction, and increase the lifespan of the bit. These coatings help prevent aluminum from adhering to the drill bit, facilitating cleaner cuts and less material buildup.
- ✓ Coolant/Lubrication: While not a bit feature, using a cutting fluid or lubricant is crucial when drilling aluminium. It helps reduce heat, prevent chip welding, and extend the life of your drill bit.
Budget Planning
Your budget will often dictate the type and quantity of drill bits you can purchase. For occasional light-duty work on thin aluminum, a standard HSS set with a good point angle might suffice and be budget-friendly. However, if you’re frequently working with thicker aluminum, or if precision and longevity are critical, investing in a high-quality titanium-coated HSS or cobalt drill bit set will save you money in the long run by reducing bit replacements and improving job quality. Step drill bits, while a single tool, can offer great value for creating multiple hole sizes in sheet aluminum without needing a full set.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best drill bit for aluminium is one that matches your project’s demands and your frequency of use. Prioritize bits made from durable materials like HSS with titanium coating or cobalt, featuring a 135° split point, and a good flute design for effective chip evacuation. Always remember to use proper drilling techniques, including consistent pressure and appropriate cutting fluid, to maximize the performance and lifespan of your chosen bits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular HSS drill bits for aluminum?
A: Yes, you can use regular High-Speed Steel (HSS) drill bits for aluminum, especially for light-duty or occasional tasks. However, to get the best results and extend bit life, look for HSS bits with specific features like a 135° split point and polished flutes. For heavy-duty use, titanium-coated or cobalt HSS bits are significantly better.
Q: Why do drill bits get stuck or “gum up” when drilling aluminum?
A: Aluminum is a relatively soft and ductile metal. When drilled, its chips can become gummy and weld to the cutting edges of the drill bit, preventing proper chip evacuation and increasing friction. This causes the bit to stick, generate excessive heat, and potentially break. Using appropriate drill bits (with good flute design and coatings), correct drilling speed, and plenty of coolant can prevent this.
Q: What’s the ideal drilling speed for aluminum?
A: Generally, drilling aluminum requires higher speeds and lower feed rates compared to steel. However, too high a speed can generate excessive heat. A good starting point is to use a moderate to high RPM (revolutions per minute) and a steady, light feed pressure. Always use cutting fluid to dissipate heat and lubricate the cut.
Q: Do I need a special lubricant for drilling aluminum?
A: While any general-purpose cutting fluid can help, specific lubricants designed for non-ferrous metals like aluminum are best. These lubricants are formulated to prevent chip welding and provide superior cooling, leading to cleaner holes and longer bit life. Even common household items like WD-40 or kerosene can offer some benefit in a pinch.
Q: Are cobalt drill bits better than titanium-coated for aluminum?
A: Cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42) are generally considered superior to titanium-coated HSS for rigorous applications, especially where heat and abrasion resistance are critical. They are made from an alloy that maintains hardness at high temperatures, making them excellent for continuous drilling in aluminum, stainless steel, and other harder metals. Titanium-coated bits offer improved hardness and friction reduction over standard HSS but are typically less heat-resistant than solid cobalt.
Choosing the best drill bit for aluminium can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your metalworking projects. By understanding the unique properties of aluminum and selecting bits with the right material, point angle, and coating, you can achieve cleaner holes and extend the life of your tools. We hope this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Explore our top recommendations today and elevate your aluminium drilling experience!
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.
