Drilling through metal can be a challenging task without the right tools. Whether you’re a professional fabricator, a dedicated DIYer, or simply tackling a home improvement project, having the best drill bit to drill through metal is crucial for efficiency, precision, and safety. Using an inadequate drill bit can lead to frustration, damaged materials, and even injuries. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options, focusing on drill bits designed to tackle various metal types with ease and durability.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bit To Drill Through Metal Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point for Metal Drilling
The DEWALT 21-piece Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point offers exceptional quality and performance for metal drilling. Its advanced titanium nitride coating and pilot point design ensure longer bit life and clean, precise starts. This set is perfect for daily use, providing outstanding durability and reliability across various applications.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coating: Provides a hard, heat-resistant layer for extended bit life and faster drilling.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip Design: Starts on contact, preventing bit walking and ensuring clean, accurate holes.
- ✓ High-Speed Steel Construction: Offers robust durability for demanding metal drilling tasks.
- ✓ Comprehensive 21-Piece Set: Includes a wide range of sizes to tackle various drilling needs.
Why We Recommend It
This DEWALT set is a go-to for professionals and serious DIYers seeking precision and longevity when drilling into metal. The TiN coating significantly enhances durability, allowing these bits to tackle tough metals without dulling quickly, while the pilot point ensures accurate hole placement from the start. It’s a reliable investment for consistent performance.
Best For
Individuals needing a versatile and highly durable drill bit set for frequent use on various metal types, especially where precision and clean hole starts are paramount.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability thanks to Titanium Nitride coating.
- Pilot Point tip ensures accurate drilling and prevents bit walking.
- Comprehensive set covers a wide range of common sizes.
- Suitable for heavy-duty applications in various metals.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic HSS sets.
- The included case might not be as robust as the bits themselves for very 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: “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. DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bit Set, Optimized for Drilling Metal, Wood, and Plastic
The DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bit Set is expertly optimized for drilling through a variety of materials including metal, wood, and plastic. This set boasts exceptional quality and performance, featuring a 135-degree split point tip to minimize walking and a tapered web design for extreme durability. Crafted from high-speed steel, these bits offer reliable performance for everyday tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point Tip: Facilitates quick, clean starts and significantly reduces bit walking for precise holes.
- ✓ High-Speed Steel (HSS) Construction: Durable and robust, suitable for drilling across diverse materials like metal, wood, and plastic.
- ✓ Tapered Web Design: Engineered for extreme durability and enhanced resistance against breakage, even under stress.
- ✓ Black and Gold Coating: Provides increased corrosion resistance and a longer lifespan for the bits.
Why We Recommend It
This DEWALT set strikes a great balance between versatility and performance, making it an excellent all-around choice. The split-point tip is superb for precise hole initiation without needing a pilot hole, and the robust high-speed steel construction with a tapered web ensures these bits stand up to demanding tasks across various materials, providing lasting value.
Best For
DIY enthusiasts and general contractors seeking a reliable and versatile drill bit set capable of efficiently drilling through a mix of materials, including common metals, wood, and plastic, for everyday projects.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile for drilling metal, wood, and plastic.
- 135° split point tip prevents walking and ensures clean starts.
- Durable high-speed steel with tapered web resists breakage.
- Good value for a multi-purpose, reliable set.
Cons:
- Not as specialized for extremely hard metals as cobalt bits.
- The carrying case closure can be a bit tricky for some users.
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!”
3. ZELCAN Titanium HSS Step Drill Bit for Metal Drilling, 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inch
The ZELCAN Titanium HSS Step Drill Bit, ranging from 1/4 to 1-3/8 inch, offers exceptional quality and performance for various drilling tasks, particularly in metal. Its high-speed steel construction and titanium coating ensure extended durability and superior resistance to heat, corrosion, and rust. With a revolutionary tri-flatted shank and a two-flute design, it provides secure chucking and efficient chip removal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Durable HSS Construction: High-speed steel ensures longevity, outlasting many standard drill bits.
- ✓ Titanium Coating: Enhances heat, corrosion, and rust resistance, allowing for smoother cuts through various metals.
- ✓ Step Drill Design: Enables drilling multiple hole sizes with a single bit, from 1/4 to 1-3/8 inches.
- ✓ Tri-Flatted Shank: Provides a secure grip in power tool chucks, eliminating slippage during operation.
- ✓ Two-Flute Design: Efficiently clears chips, leading to faster drilling and a cleaner finish.
Why We Recommend It
When you need to create clean, progressively larger holes in sheet metal or thin materials, this Zelcan step drill bit is incredibly effective. The titanium coating coupled with HSS construction ensures longevity and smooth cutting, making it a budget-friendly powerhouse for panel work, electrical boxes, and automotive applications. It’s a versatile tool for quick hole sizing.
Best For
Users who frequently need to drill multiple sized holes in thin sheet metal, aluminum, or plastic, where clean, burr-free enlargement is required with a single, efficient tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Drills multiple hole sizes with one bit, saving time and bit changes.
- Titanium coating enhances durability and reduces friction.
- Tri-flatted shank ensures secure grip and prevents slipping.
- Efficient chip removal with a two-flute design.
- Excellent value for occasional to moderate use.
Cons:
- Not ideal for very thick metals or extremely hard alloys.
- Can dull faster than specialized cobalt bits with heavy, prolonged use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Inexpensive step bit used to drill out a few holes for trailer hitch install. Unsure on longevity but worked without issue on two 1 1/8 holes I needed. Fair price and helped me get the job done. I believe the bit has more life in it and I’m sure it will get used in the future for jobs here & there.”
Customer Review: “Used this to make a new soap dispenser hole in our old stainless steel kitchen sink. Went right through, no issues. Seems like it’s pretty decent quality.”
4. Champion Brute Platinum HSS 29-Piece Drill Bit Set, 1/16-1/2 Inch, 135° Split Point
The Champion Brute Platinum HSS 29-Piece Drill Bit Set, ranging from 1/16 to 1/2 inch, is designed for exceptional quality and performance, especially in challenging metal applications. Featuring a 135° split point and an XL28 Brute Platinum HSS composition, these bits are engineered to drill longer and faster than many competitors, including cobalt. Their robust design resists chipping and snapping, making them ideal for heavy-duty daily use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ XL28 Brute Platinum HSS: Engineered for superior durability and flexibility, outperforming many standard HSS and cobalt bits.
- ✓ 135° Split Point: Ensures fast, accurate starts on contact, preventing bit walking and minimizing pilot drilling.
- ✓ Tapered Web Geometry: Provides added strength and rigidity, reducing the risk of breakage during demanding tasks.
- ✓ Reduced Overall Length: Enhances bit strength and stability, particularly when drilling through tough materials.
- ✓ Flatted Shanks: Designed for fast and secure chucking in keyless power tools, preventing slippage.
Why We Recommend It
The Champion Brute Platinum set is engineered for serious metalworking, offering exceptional durability and drilling speed. Its unique XL28 HSS composition provides flexibility where more brittle cobalt bits might chip or snap, making it a robust choice for demanding projects. The precision-ground tips and strengthened design ensure long-lasting performance even in the toughest metals.
Best For
Professional tradespeople, industrial users, and advanced DIYers who require a high-performance, long-lasting drill bit set for frequent and rigorous drilling through various hard metals, including stainless steel and alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability, outlasting and often outperforming many cobalt bits.
- 135° split point ensures fast, accurate, and walk-free starts.
- Unique XL28 HSS offers flexibility, reducing chipping and snapping.
- Tapered web design and reduced length add significant strength.
- Flatted shanks provide a secure grip in keyless chucks.
Cons:
- Premium price point, representing an investment for serious users.
- May still require cutting fluid for optimal performance on very tough, thick 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”
5. Titanium Coated HSS Step Drill Bit Set for Multi-Size Metal Hole Drilling
This Titanium Coated HSS Step Drill Bit Set is an excellent choice for multi-size metal hole drilling, offering proven capability and durability. Crafted from classic high-speed steel with a titanium coating, these bits are designed for efficiency and longevity. The double cutting blades provide faster, smoother, and more accurate holes, while the tri-flatted shank ensures secure gripping in drill chucks for higher efficiency.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Quality Step Drill Bits: Made from classic high-speed steel (HSS) with a titanium coating for enhanced capability and durability.
- ✓ Double Cutting Blades Design: Ensures faster, smoother, and more accurate drilling, producing cleaner holes.
- ✓ Tri-Flatted Shank: Optimally fits into power tools, such as impact drill chucks, securely and eliminates slip for higher efficiency.
- ✓ Multi-Size Drilling: Each bit is designed to drill multiple hole diameters, reducing the need for numerous individual bits.
- ✓ Heat and Corrosion Resistance: Titanium coating contributes to better performance and longer life.
Why We Recommend It
This titanium-coated HSS step drill bit set offers excellent versatility and value for users who need to drill precise, clean holes of varying sizes in thinner materials like sheet metal. The double cutting blades contribute to a smoother finish, and the robust construction ensures good performance for general workshop tasks, making it a reliable addition to any toolkit.
Best For
DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and light-duty professionals looking for an affordable yet effective set of step drill bits to create clean, multi-sized holes in thin metal sheets, plastics, and wood.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cost-effective solution for multi-size hole drilling.
- Titanium coating improves bit life and drilling efficiency.
- Double cutting blades provide smooth, accurate holes.
- Tri-flatted shank prevents slippage during use.
- Good for thin gauge metals and plastics.
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy-gauge or very hard metals.
- Durability may not match premium brands with extensive professional use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “hese have been great and easy to use. If you have to ask anything more than that when looking at these, you probably should not have the drill in your hand.”
Customer Review: “Nothing last forever. Even the name brand high priced step bits go bad in time. I buy these inexpensive off brand step bits, & they work just fine for plenty of uses, jobs, & duration until just like the over priced name brand alternatives, they get dull or fail too. Meanwhile, I laugh all the way t”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bit To Drill Through Metal
Choosing the right drill bit for metal can significantly impact the quality of your work and the lifespan of your tools. Here’s what to consider when making your selection:
Essential Factors We Consider
- 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 (HSS-Co or M35/M42): Ideal for harder metals, including stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium. Cobalt bits are more heat-resistant and durable than standard HSS.
- Carbide (Tungsten Carbide): Extremely hard and suitable for very abrasive materials or hardened steel. They are brittle and best used in rigid setups like drill presses.
- Coating:
- Titanium Nitride (TiN): A common coating that adds a hard, heat-resistant layer, extending bit life and reducing friction. Good for general metal drilling.
- Black Oxide: Provides some heat resistance and corrosion protection, often found on budget-friendly HSS bits.
- Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) / AlTiN: More advanced coatings offering even better heat and wear resistance than TiN, suitable for high-speed drilling in tough materials.
- Tip Design:
- 118-Degree Point: Standard point for general-purpose drilling, typically requires a pilot hole for accuracy.
- 135-Degree Split Point: Recommended for metal drilling, especially harder metals. It prevents bit walking, allows for faster starts, and eliminates the need for a pilot hole in many cases.
- Pilot Point: Similar to a split point, designed for clean, accurate holes with minimal walking.
- Shank Type:
- Round Shank: Standard for most drills.
- Hex Shank: Prevents slippage in quick-change chucks and impact drivers.
- Tri-Flat Shank: Provides a more secure grip than round shanks in standard drill chucks, reducing slippage.
- Set vs. Individual Bits:
- Sets: Offer a range of sizes, good for general use or if you frequently work with varying hole diameters.
- Individual Bits: Best for specific, frequently used sizes or for replacing worn-out bits from a set.
- Application: Consider the thickness and type of metal you’ll be drilling. Thicker or harder metals require more robust bits (cobalt, advanced coatings) and often slower speeds with cutting fluid.
Budget Planning
Drill bits for metal come in a wide range of prices. Budget-friendly HSS sets are suitable for occasional use in softer metals. Mid-range titanium-coated HSS or basic cobalt sets offer a good balance of performance and value for more frequent use and harder materials. Premium cobalt or carbide bits represent a significant investment but provide superior durability and performance for professionals and those tackling the toughest metals regularly. Investing in quality bits often saves money in the long run by reducing replacements and preventing project delays.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the ideal drill bit for metal is about matching the tool to the task. Always prioritize bits made from the appropriate material (HSS, Cobalt, Carbide) and with suitable coatings (TiN, Black Oxide) and tip designs (135° split point) for the specific metal you’re working with. Remember to use proper drilling techniques, including consistent pressure, appropriate speed, and liberal application of cutting fluid, to maximize bit life and achieve the best results. A good quality drill bit not only performs better but also significantly reduces effort and improves safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of drill bit do I need for drilling through metal?
A: For most metals, High-Speed Steel (HSS) bits are a good starting point. For harder metals like stainless steel, Cobalt (HSS-Co) drill bits are recommended due to their added hardness and heat resistance. Titanium-coated HSS bits offer increased durability and reduced friction, making them a popular versatile choice.
Q: Can I use a regular drill bit to drill through stainless steel?
A: While you might get through very thin stainless steel with a high-quality HSS bit, it’s generally not recommended. Stainless steel is extremely hard and generates a lot of heat, which quickly dulls standard HSS bits. For stainless steel, cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42) are the best choice as they can withstand the higher temperatures and abrasion without losing their cutting edge.
Q: What does a 135-degree split point tip mean?
A: A 135-degree split point tip is a feature on drill bits that helps prevent the bit from “walking” or wandering when you start drilling. The split creates an additional cutting edge, allowing the bit to start on contact with minimal pressure, resulting in more accurate hole placement and faster penetration, especially in metal. This design often eliminates the need for a pilot hole.
Q: Do I need to use cutting fluid when drilling metal?
A: Yes, using a cutting fluid or lubricant is highly recommended when drilling through metal, especially harder types. It helps to cool the drill bit and the workpiece, reduces friction, extends the life of the bit, and assists in chip removal. This prevents overheating, which can quickly dull the bit and even work-harden the metal you’re trying to drill, making the task even harder.
Q: How do I prevent drill bits from breaking when drilling metal?
A: To prevent breakage, use the correct drill bit type and size for the metal thickness, apply steady, consistent pressure (don’t force it), and use a low drill speed for harder metals. Always ensure the workpiece is securely clamped to prevent movement. Using cutting fluid and allowing the bit to cool between passes can also significantly extend its life and prevent premature failure.
Finding the best drill bit to drill through metal transforms a potentially frustrating task into a smooth, efficient process. By understanding the different materials, coatings, and tip designs available, you can confidently choose the right tool for any metalworking challenge. Investing in quality drill bits not only ensures superior results but also saves you time and money in the long run. Explore our top picks and empower your next metalworking project with confidence, knowing you have the best bits for the job!
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.
