Drilling through metal can be a challenging task, but with the right drill bits, it becomes significantly easier and more efficient. Whether you’re a professional fabricator, an avid DIYer, or just need to tackle a home repair project, having the best drill bits for metal is crucial for achieving clean, precise holes without excessive wear and tear on your tools. Our comprehensive guide delves into the top contenders, evaluating their durability, performance, and features to help you find the perfect set for your needs. We’ve put these bits through rigorous testing to ensure they stand up to various metal types, from soft aluminum to hardened steel.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bit Metal Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set for Metal Drilling
The DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set is an outstanding choice for anyone needing reliable performance for drilling through various metals. Its Titanium Nitride coating significantly extends bit life, making it a durable option for both professionals and serious DIYers. The innovative Pilot Point tip ensures clean, accurate starts without walking, even on polished surfaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride Coating for enhanced durability and longer bit life.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip Design starts on contact, preventing walking and ensuring clean, accurate holes.
- ✓ Optimized for metal drilling, but versatile enough for plastic and wood.
- ✓ Includes a durable, clear case for easy organization and transport.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this DEWALT set for its exceptional balance of durability, precision, and versatility. The titanium nitride coating ensures these bits can withstand the rigors of frequent metal drilling, while the pilot point tip simplifies hole starting, making your projects more efficient. It’s a reliable workhorse for a wide range of tasks.
Best For
This set is ideal for both daily professional use and serious DIY enthusiasts who require a robust, long-lasting set of drill bits for various metal fabrication and repair tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability thanks to Titanium Nitride coating.
- Pilot Point tip ensures precise, no-walk starts.
- Suitable for a wide range of materials including metal, wood, and plastic.
- Comes in a sturdy, well-organized case.
Cons:
- May not be ideal for extremely hardened or exotic metals.
- The price point can be a bit higher than basic HSS sets.
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. Champion Brute Platinum 29-Piece HSS Mechanics Length Drill Bit Set, 1/16-1/2″, 135° Split Point.
The Champion Brute Platinum 29-Piece HSS Mechanics Length Drill Bit Set is engineered for superior performance and longevity, claiming to drill three times longer and two times faster than competitor drills. Made from a special XL28 High-Speed Steel, these bits are designed to flex where cobalt drills might chip or snap, offering outstanding durability and reliability in demanding metalworking applications. The 135° split point ensures accurate, clean starts every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ XL28 HSS Material engineered for superior flexibility and toughness over traditional cobalt.
- ✓ 135° Split Point Tip for instant starts, preventing walking and enhancing drilling accuracy.
- ✓ Mechanics Length provides added strength and rigidity, reducing breakage.
- ✓ Flatted Shanks for secure gripping in keyless drill chucks, preventing slippage.
- ✓ Drills significantly faster and longer compared to standard drill bits.
Why We Recommend It
This Champion Brute Platinum set is highly recommended for its innovative material and design that truly stands out. The XL28 HSS combines the best attributes, offering resilience against chipping and snapping while providing impressive speed and accuracy. It’s a premium set that justifies its investment with extended life and performance.
Best For
An excellent choice for automotive technicians, industrial applications, and serious tradespeople who need high-performance, durable drill bits for consistent, heavy-duty metal drilling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Significantly longer lifespan and faster drilling than standard HSS.
- Superior resistance to chipping and snapping.
- Mechanics length design enhances rigidity and strength.
- Flatted shanks ensure a secure grip in power tool chucks.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to conventional HSS sets.
- While durable, still not carbide for extremely tough materials.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I’ve drilled a bazillion holes in every kind of material you can think of over more than 65 years of being an automotive technician, and used up my share of drill bits. I’ve learned to recognize good ones from bad ones and I’d have to say that these appear to be among the best quality around. Beauti
Customer Review: I’ve drilled a bazillion holes in every kind of material you can think of over more than 65 years of being an automotive technician, and used up my share of drill bits. I’ve learned to recognize good ones from bad ones and I’d have to say that these appear to be among the best quality around. Beauti
3. DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bits for Metal, Plastic, and Wood with Split Point
The DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bits for Metal, Plastic, and Wood with Split Point offers exceptional value without compromising on key features for general-purpose drilling. Made from High Speed Steel (HSS) and featuring a 135-degree split point tip, this set is designed to reduce walking and resist breakage thanks to its tapered web design. It’s a versatile choice for a variety of materials, making it a staple for any home toolkit.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 135 Degree Split Point Tip design minimizes walking for cleaner, more precise holes.
- ✓ Constructed from High Speed Steel (HSS) for durability in metal, plastic, and wood.
- ✓ Tapered Web Design provides increased durability and resistance to breakage.
- ✓ Versatile performance across multiple material types, making it a general-purpose essential.
Why We Recommend It
For those seeking a reliable and affordable drill bit set that can handle a range of materials, this DEWALT 14-piece set is highly recommended. It delivers solid performance for everyday tasks, with features like the split point and tapered web typically found in more expensive sets, making it excellent value for money.
Best For
Ideal for home DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and anyone needing a functional, multi-purpose drill bit set for occasional use on metal, wood, and plastic without a significant investment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly affordable for a quality brand.
- Effective split point tip prevents bit walking.
- Good for drilling a variety of materials including metal, plastic, and wood.
- Tapered web enhances bit strength.
Cons:
- Limited to 14 pieces, so fewer sizes compared to larger sets.
- HSS may dull faster than coated or cobalt bits on harder metals.
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!
4. 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set for Metal, 1/16 to 1/2 Inch
This 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set provides a comprehensive assortment of jobber length drill bits ranging from 1/16″ to 1/2″ in 1/64″ increments, ensuring you have the right size for almost any task. Crafted from High-Speed Steel (HSS), these bits offer strong wear resistance, and their black and gold oxide finish further enhances corrosion resistance and hardness. This makes it an ideal set for general metal drilling, offering solid performance and versatility.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extensive 29-piece set covering sizes from 1/16″ to 1/2″ in 1/64″ increments.
- ✓ Made from durable High-Speed Steel (HSS) for robust wear resistance.
- ✓ Black and gold oxide finish to resist corrosion and increase surface hardness.
- ✓ Jobber length design offers a good balance of reach and rigidity.
Why We Recommend It
For those who need a wide range of drill bit sizes without breaking the bank, this 29-piece HSS set is a fantastic choice. The black and gold oxide coating enhances its durability and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for regular use on various metals. It’s a reliable workhorse for general workshops and home projects.
Best For
This set is perfect for general metalworking, maintenance tasks, and users who frequently need a broad spectrum of drill bit sizes for standard drilling applications in steel, aluminum, and other common metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive range of sizes for maximum versatility.
- HSS material provides good wear resistance for general use.
- Black and gold oxide finish protects against corrosion.
- Excellent value for the number of bits included.
Cons:
- Not suitable for drilling through hardened steel or exotic alloys.
- May require more frequent sharpening under heavy industrial use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Quality set of drills. I bought one for a friend of mine and gave it to him as a present and I liked him so much. I bought one for myself a year later definitely would buy them again. They should last you a lifetime.
Customer Review: Quality set of drills. I bought one for a friend of mine and gave it to him as a present and I liked him so much. I bought one for myself a year later definitely would buy them again. They should last you a lifetime.Read more
5. Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bits: TiAlN Coated for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel
The Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bits are engineered for extreme durability and performance, especially when tackling hardened metal and stainless steel. Featuring an M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel core with 5% cobalt, these bits resist up to 1200°F heat, outperforming standard bits by up to five times. The innovative TiAlN Nano-coating and triple-flute design ensure rapid cutting with superior chip removal, minimizing clogging and breakage. Its 135° self-centering tip guarantees precision from the start.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel (5% Cobalt) for exceptional heat resistance and durability on hardened metals.
- ✓ TiAlN Nano-coating (89HRC hardness) provides superior wear resistance and reduced friction.
- ✓ Triple-Flute Design allows for 40% faster cutting and improved chip removal, preventing clogging.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip ensures precise hole starts without walking or the need for a pilot hole.
- ✓ Outlasts standard bits by up to 5 times in hardened steel.
Why We Recommend It
For professionals and serious users who frequently encounter challenging materials like hardened steel and stainless steel, the Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bits are an unparalleled choice. Their combination of cobalt material, TiAlN coating, and advanced flute design delivers incredible cutting speed, longevity, and precision, making even tough jobs manageable.
Best For
This set is explicitly designed for professionals, welders, machinists, and fabricators who regularly drill through hardened metals, stainless steel, cast iron, and other demanding alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched durability and heat resistance for hard materials.
- TiAlN coating provides superior wear protection.
- Triple-flute design ensures fast cutting and efficient chip removal.
- Self-centering tip for precise and effortless starts.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to HSS or TiN-coated bits.
- Can be brittle if subjected to excessive side load or improper technique.
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.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bit Metal
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best drill bits for metal, several critical factors come into play. Understanding these elements will help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific drilling needs.
- Material Composition:
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): Good for general-purpose drilling in softer metals like aluminum, copper, and mild steel. They are affordable and common.
- Cobalt (M35, M42): HSS with 5-8% cobalt alloyed, offering significantly higher heat and abrasion resistance. Ideal for drilling tougher metals, including stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium.
- Carbide: Extremely hard and heat-resistant, carbide bits are best for hardened steel, exotic alloys, and production drilling. They are brittle and more expensive.
- Coatings: Coatings enhance performance and lifespan.
- Black Oxide: Adds mild corrosion resistance and reduces friction, suitable for general use.
- Titanium Nitride (TiN): A golden-colored coating that increases surface hardness, lubricity, and extends bit life for HSS bits, good for general metal drilling.
- Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN): A more advanced coating, offering superior heat and wear resistance, especially effective for dry machining or drilling very hard materials at high speeds.
- Point Angle: The angle of the drill bit tip influences its ability to penetrate and prevent walking.
- 118°: Standard point, good for softer metals and general use. May require a center punch to prevent walking.
- 135° Split Point: Ideal for hard materials, preventing bit walking and allowing for immediate penetration without a pilot hole. Highly recommended for metal.
- Shank Type: The part of the bit held by the drill chuck.
- Round: Most common, fits standard chucks. Can slip in keyless chucks if not tight.
- Hex: Provides a secure, non-slip grip in quick-change chucks and prevents spinning.
- Flatted (e.g., three-flat): Offers improved grip over round shanks, especially in keyless chucks.
- Set vs. Individual: Consider if you need a full set of various sizes or just a few specific bits. Sets offer better value but individual bits allow for specialized needs.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often signify quality control and reliable performance, backed by customer support.
Budget Planning
Budgeting for drill bits for metal involves balancing cost with the demands of your projects. Entry-level HSS sets are very affordable, often ranging from $15-$40, and are perfectly adequate for occasional light-duty metal drilling or softer materials. For more frequent use or tougher metals, investing in a TiN-coated HSS or an M35 Cobalt set (typically $50-$150+) will pay off in terms of durability and efficiency. If you’re working with extremely hard or exotic metals on a regular basis, a premium M42 Cobalt or TiAlN-coated set might be necessary, costing upwards of $150. Remember, a more expensive bit that lasts longer and performs better often saves money in the long run by reducing replacements and project time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best drill bit for metal boils down to understanding your primary drilling needs. For general-purpose tasks and softer metals, a quality HSS bit with a good coating like Titanium Nitride will serve you well. However, if your work involves frequently drilling through challenging materials such as stainless steel or hardened alloys, investing in a Cobalt or TiAlN-coated bit with a split point is essential for efficiency, longevity, and optimal performance. Always prioritize safety and use appropriate cutting fluids to maximize bit life and drilling effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best material for drill bits for metal?
A: Cobalt (M35, M42) or Carbide are best for hardened metals and stainless steel due to their superior heat and wear resistance. For general-purpose metal drilling in softer steels, aluminum, or brass, High-Speed Steel (HSS) with coatings like Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) offers an excellent balance of performance and cost.
Q: What does “split point” mean on a drill bit?
A: A split point tip on a drill bit is designed with a small cut or “split” at the very tip, which creates an additional cutting edge and a narrower chisel edge. This design helps the bit to start on contact, preventing it from “walking” or wandering across the surface, especially on rounded or uneven materials, eliminating the need for a center punch.
Q: Can I use regular HSS drill bits on stainless steel?
A: While standard HSS bits can technically cut stainless steel, it’s very challenging and not recommended for best results. Stainless steel is hard, work-hardens quickly, and generates a lot of heat, which rapidly dulls HSS bits. Cobalt (M35/M42) drill bits are far superior for stainless steel due to their higher heat resistance and hardness, significantly improving cutting efficiency and bit lifespan.
Q: How do I prevent my drill bits from breaking when drilling metal?
A: To prevent drill bit breakage when drilling metal, use proper technique: apply steady, even pressure, use a slower drill RPM, apply cutting oil or coolant to dissipate heat and lubricate the cut, and frequently clear chips from the hole. Avoid excessive force, side-to-side movement, or allowing the bit to get too hot.
Q: What’s the difference between Titanium Nitride (TiN) and Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coatings?
A: Both TiN and TiAlN coatings increase the hardness and reduce friction of drill bits. TiN (Titanium Nitride) is a general-purpose coating, recognizable by its golden color, which enhances bit life and performance for most metal drilling applications. TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) is a more advanced, darker-colored coating that offers superior heat and wear resistance, making it ideal for high-speed, dry machining, and drilling through very hard or abrasive materials like stainless steel and hardened alloys.
Selecting the best drill bit for metal is a critical decision that impacts the quality, efficiency, and longevity of your projects. From the versatile DEWALT Titanium Nitride set, perfect for all-around use, to the powerhouse Crosstar M35 Cobalt bits designed for the toughest materials, our top picks offer solutions for every level of demand and budget. Consider the type of metal you’ll be drilling, the frequency of use, and your budget to choose the ideal set that will serve you reliably for years to come. Invest in quality, and your projects will reflect the precision and ease that superior tools provide.
Ready to upgrade your toolkit? Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons within our reviews to find the best deals and get started on your next metalworking project with confidence!
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.
