When tackling projects involving stainless steel, the right tools make all the difference. Drilling through this tough, corrosion-resistant metal can be a challenge, often leading to dull bits, slow progress, and frustration if you’re not equipped with the proper gear. This is why selecting the best drill bit for stainless is crucial for achieving clean, precise holes without damaging your material or your bits.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bit For Stainless Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece, for Drilling Stainless Steel
The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set is engineered to deliver exceptional quality and performance, especially when working with challenging materials like stainless steel. Featuring a durable titanium nitride coating and innovative pilot point tip, this 21-piece set ensures longer life and clean, precise holes. It’s built for daily use, offering outstanding durability and reliability for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coating for enhanced durability and reduced friction.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip starts on contact, preventing walking and creating cleaner, accurate holes.
- ✓ Designed for Longer Bit Life even in tough materials.
- ✓ Comprehensive 21-Piece Set covers a wide range of common drilling applications.
- ✓ Ideal for drilling various metals, including stainless steel, cast iron, and more.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this DEWALT set because of its proven performance in demanding applications. The titanium nitride coating, combined with the pilot point design, makes drilling through stainless steel significantly easier and more efficient. Its robust construction ensures these bits can withstand the rigors of frequent use, making them a valuable addition to any toolbox.
Best For
This drill bit set is best for professionals and serious DIYers who frequently work with hard metals like stainless steel, need precise hole placement, and value long-lasting, reliable tools.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability and extended bit life due to TiN coating.
- Pilot point tip provides accurate starts and reduces bit walking.
- Versatile set with a wide range of sizes for various tasks.
- Reliable performance when drilling through tough materials like stainless steel.
Cons:
- Can be a higher initial investment compared to basic HSS sets.
- Coating may wear off over time with heavy, repeated 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: 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.Read more
2. Cobalt M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set for Drilling Stainless Steel
The Cobalt M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set is designed for rigorous applications, particularly effective when drilling through tough materials such as stainless steel, iron castings, and copper. This set offers a comprehensive range of 13 drill bit sizes, ensuring you have the right tool for various tasks. Made from durable M35 cobalt, these bits boast a 135-degree point tip and twist design for quick and efficient drilling, delivering reliability for daily use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Constructed from M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel for superior hardness and heat resistance.
- ✓ Includes 13 Common Sizes from 1/16″ to 1/4″, suitable for diverse projects.
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point Tip prevents bit walking and allows for quick, clean starts.
- ✓ Twist Design efficiently removes chips and debris for smoother drilling.
- ✓ Highly effective on a variety of materials, including hard and soft metals like stainless steel.
Why We Recommend It
This M35 Cobalt drill bit set earns our Editor’s Choice for its outstanding ability to tackle stainless steel and other demanding metals. The M35 cobalt alloy ensures excellent heat resistance and durability, which is paramount when drilling materials prone to work hardening. The variety of sizes and the efficient design make this a versatile and indispensable set for any serious craftsman.
Best For
This set is best for professionals and advanced DIYers who frequently drill into tough metals, require a range of bit sizes, and need drill bits that can withstand high temperatures and resist wear.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior durability and heat resistance due to M35 Cobalt construction.
- Wide range of common sizes ensures versatility for various tasks.
- 135-degree split point provides accurate, walk-free starts.
- Efficient chip removal for smoother and faster drilling.
Cons:
- Some users reported bits breaking with aggressive use, possibly indicating brittleness if not used correctly.
- Requires proper technique and cutting fluid to maximize longevity.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I had a use case where a machine screw had broken off in a location that wasn’t easy to access. I decided versus pulling the piece of equipment apart to improve access, I’d spend the money on a set of these with the hopes it would catch as I was drilling out the broken off screw. The screw broke d
Customer Review: I purchase this set just under a year ago. I have not use these drill bits but a couple of times and 4 have already broken.10/6/2025 Update. Macxcoip Cobalt Drill Bits set seller reached out address any issues or concerns in my satisfaction with the product I received. They offer a full refund or to
3. Bosch 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Stainless Steel
The Bosch 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits set offers upgraded M42 Cobalt jobber-length bits, specifically engineered for exceptional durability and high heat resistance. With an enhanced 8% cobalt alloy material, these bits deliver up to 10 times longer life compared to standard bits. Designed to withstand high-temperature applications, they are perfect for drilling into hardened surfaces like stainless steel with reliable performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features M42 Cobalt Alloy with 8% cobalt content for extreme hardness and heat resistance.
- ✓ Delivers up to 10x Longer Life compared to conventional drill bits.
- ✓ Three-Flat Shank Design ensures a secure grip in the drill chuck, preventing slippage.
- ✓ Withstands High-Temperature Applications, ideal for drilling tough metals.
- ✓ Optimized for drilling into stainless steel and other hardened metal surfaces.
Why We Recommend It
As our “Best Budget” pick, the Bosch M42 Cobalt set provides incredible value without compromising on performance. The M42 alloy is a significant upgrade, offering superior heat and wear resistance essential for working with stainless steel. The three-flat shank is a practical feature that greatly improves grip and stability, ensuring safer and more efficient drilling. This set proves that high quality for drilling stainless steel doesn’t have to break the bank.
Best For
This drill bit set is best for budget-conscious users and hobbyists who still need high-performance bits capable of drilling stainless steel and other hard metals without compromising on quality or durability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money given the M42 Cobalt quality.
- Enhanced M42 alloy material offers significantly longer lifespan.
- Three-flat shank prevents slipping in the drill chuck.
- High heat resistance makes it effective for stainless steel.
Cons:
- The range of sizes might be limited compared to larger, more expensive sets.
- M42 cobalt can be more brittle than M35 if mishandled or overheated.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Anything bosch makes is good, but i feel like they have it down pat when it comes to stuff like twist drills and bits.The M42 cobalt keeps the drill from getting too hot and also acts as a “lubricant”, both contributing to keeping a sharp cutting edge, giving it quality and ease of use.These factors
Customer Review: This is a great drill bit set. The reason I purchased this set is because I needed to drill and tap a hole in the end of a lawnmower engine crankshaft. Rather than buying just that drill bit I decided to get a whole set, because I knew I would need drill bits again. I decided to go with this set ove
4. Best M35 Cobalt Drill Bit for Stainless Steel & Hardened Metal with TiAlN, Three-Flute Design
This M35 Cobalt Drill Bit for Stainless Steel and Hardened Metal combines industry-leading durability with innovative design. Crafted from M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel with a 5% cobalt core, it resists extreme heat up to 1200°F, offering 5 times longer life than standard bits in hardened steel. The unique three-flute design ensures rapid cutting and efficient chip removal, while the TiAlN Nano-coating and 135° self-centering tip provide unparalleled precision and speed, even through thick stainless steel.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Made from M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel with a 5% cobalt core for extreme durability and heat resistance.
- ✓ Features an advanced TiAlN Nano-coating (89HRC hardness) for increased wear resistance.
- ✓ Unique Triple-Flute Design provides 40% faster chip removal, reducing clogging and breakage.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip ensures precise, rapid starts without pre-drilling.
- ✓ Engineered to drill through 1/4″ stainless steel in as little as 8 seconds.
Why We Recommend It
This drill bit stands out for its cutting-edge design and material science. The combination of M35 cobalt, TiAlN coating, and a triple-flute geometry makes it an incredibly efficient and durable tool for professionals. It’s engineered for speed and precision in the toughest metals, including thick stainless steel, delivering performance that is hard to match.
Best For
This drill bit is best for experienced metalworkers, fabricators, and serious DIYers who frequently work with challenging materials like stainless steel, hardened steel, and require the fastest, most precise drilling possible.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability and heat resistance from M35 Cobalt and TiAlN coating.
- Triple-flute design ensures incredibly fast and efficient chip removal.
- 135° self-centering tip allows for immediate, precise drilling.
- Outperforms standard bits significantly in hardened materials.
Cons:
- Premium price point due to advanced materials and design.
- Best performance requires consistent cooling and correct drilling speed.
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: 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.
5. Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel, Metal, Wood, and Plastic (31 Sizes)
The Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit Set is a versatile tool designed for drilling precise holes in various materials, including stainless steel, metal, wood, and plastic. Each unibit is constructed from industrial high-speed steel with a titanium nitride coating, providing superior durability and strength. Featuring a split point tip for fast cutting and a two-flute spiral grooved design, these bits effectively deburr chips, dust, and debris for clean, smooth holes across 31 different sizes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Made from Industrial High-Speed Steel (HSS) with a Titanium Nitride Coating for enhanced longevity.
- ✓ Features a Split Point Tip that accelerates cutting speed and prevents bit walking.
- ✓ Two-Flute Spiral Grooved Design effectively clears chips and deburrs holes simultaneously.
- ✓ Provides 31 Step Sizes across the set, allowing for a wide range of hole diameters with fewer bits.
- ✓ Versatile for use on multiple materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, wood, and plastics.
Why We Recommend It
This step drill bit set is an excellent choice for those needing to create multiple hole sizes efficiently in materials like stainless steel without constantly changing bits. The spiral groove design, combined with the titanium nitride coating, ensures smooth, clean cuts and extended bit life. It’s a fantastic space-saving and time-saving solution for both quick fixes and larger projects.
Best For
This step drill bit set is best for users who need to drill various hole sizes quickly and precisely in sheet metal, including stainless steel, as well as wood and plastic, without frequently changing bits.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Multipurpose functionality for drilling and deburring in one pass.
- Titanium Nitride coating enhances durability and reduces friction.
- Wide range of 31 sizes with just three bits, saving space.
- Split point tip ensures quick and accurate starts on surfaces.
Cons:
- Not ideal for very deep holes or extremely thick stainless steel.
- Requires consistent pressure and coolant for optimal performance and longevity in hard metals.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Quality step bit! Does what it should and seems to be a long lasting product!
Customer Review: The drill bit worked great and made getting rid of the burrs on my metal roof easy when replacing all the screws. Hard to see when to stop when using a hand held drill , so easy to make it too big if not careful. Good tool to have in your tool box.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bit For Stainless
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best drill bit for stainless, several critical factors must be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The material composition of the drill bit is paramount; cobalt (M35 or M42) drill bits are widely regarded as the top choice due to their superior heat resistance and hardness, which are essential for combating the work-hardening properties of stainless steel. Carbide-tipped bits are even harder but often more expensive and brittle. Furthermore, a good quality coating, such as Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN), can significantly enhance durability, reduce friction, and dissipate heat, prolonging the life of the bit. The point angle, typically 135 degrees, is crucial for preventing “walking” on hard surfaces and ensuring quick, precise starts without the need for a pilot hole. Lastly, consider the shank type for secure gripping in your drill chuck and the overall size range needed for your projects.
Budget Planning
Investing in the best drill bit for stainless can seem like a significant upfront cost, but it’s an investment that pays off in the long run. While standard High-Speed Steel (HSS) bits are cheaper, they quickly dull when drilling stainless steel, leading to frustration, wasted time, and the need for frequent replacements. Cobalt or carbide-tipped bits, though more expensive, offer superior performance, durability, and a much longer lifespan, making them more economical over time. When budgeting, consider the frequency and intensity of your stainless steel drilling tasks. For occasional use, a mid-range M35 cobalt set might suffice. For heavy-duty or professional use, higher-grade M42 cobalt or TiAlN-coated bits are worth the extra expense for their efficiency and extended tool life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right drill bit for stainless steel is not just about making a hole; it’s about making a clean, precise hole efficiently and safely. By understanding the properties of stainless steel and the advantages of cobalt, coated, and specialized drill bit designs, you can significantly improve your drilling experience. Always remember to use appropriate cutting fluid and maintain proper drilling speed and pressure to maximize the life and performance of your drill bits. With the right tools, drilling through stainless steel becomes a manageable task rather than a daunting challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is drilling stainless steel so difficult?
A: Stainless steel is notoriously difficult to drill because it is both hard and tough. It also has a tendency to “work-harden,” meaning it becomes even harder as you drill it if the bit or technique isn’t correct. This generates a lot of heat, which can quickly dull standard drill bits.
Q: What type of drill bit is best for stainless steel?
A: The best drill bits for stainless steel are typically made from Cobalt High-Speed Steel (HSS), specifically M35 or M42 grades, due to their higher heat resistance and hardness. Carbide-tipped drill bits are also excellent but can be more brittle and expensive.
Q: What speed should I use when drilling stainless steel?
A: When drilling stainless steel, it’s crucial to use a lower drill speed with constant, firm pressure. This prevents the material from work-hardening and helps dissipate heat. The exact speed depends on the bit size and steel thickness, but generally, slower is better.
Q: Do I need lubricant when drilling stainless steel?
A: Yes, absolutely. Using a good quality cutting fluid or lubricant is highly recommended when drilling stainless steel. It helps to cool the drill bit, reduce friction, and flush out chips, all of which extend the life of your bit and make drilling easier.
Q: Can I use regular HSS bits for stainless steel?
A: While you can technically attempt to use regular High-Speed Steel (HSS) bits, they are not ideal for stainless steel. They will dull very quickly, generate excessive heat, and likely lead to poor results and frustration. It’s always better to use cobalt or carbide-tipped bits for optimal performance.
Selecting the best drill bit for stainless can significantly impact the success and ease of your metalworking projects. Each product reviewed offers distinct advantages, from the robust durability of DEWALT’s TiN-coated bits to the extreme heat resistance of Bosch’s M42 Cobalt set, and the versatile utility of the step drill bits. Carefully consider your specific needs, project frequency, and budget to make the best choice. Equipped with the right tools, you’ll find drilling through stainless steel a much more manageable task. Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Click on the ‘Check Price on Amazon’ buttons to find the perfect drill bits for your next stainless steel project!
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.
