When tackling projects involving metal, having the best drill bits for metal is crucial for efficiency, precision, and safety. Standard drill bits simply won’t cut it (pun intended!) for the toughness of steel, aluminum, brass, or cast iron. A quality set of metal drill bits can make all the difference, preventing frustrating dulling, breakage, and wasted effort. This comprehensive roundup will guide you through our top picks, evaluating their materials, coatings, and design features to help you find the perfect set for your workshop or toolbox, ensuring you achieve clean, accurate holes every time.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bits Metal Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Champion Brute Platinum 29-Piece HSS Mechanics Length Drill Bit Set, 135-Degree Split Point for Metal
The Champion Brute Platinum 29-Piece HSS Mechanics Length Drill Bit Set offers exceptional quality and performance, designed to outperform and outlast. These bits are engineered to drill 3x longer than competitors and 2x faster than traditional cobalt bits, making them a top contender for demanding metalworking tasks. With their specialized design, they provide outstanding durability and reliability for everyday use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ XL28 Performance: Engineered to drill 3x longer and 2x faster than many competitive drills, including cobalt.
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point: Ensures accurate starts on contact, preventing bit walking and delivering precise holes.
- ✓ Tapered Web Geometry: Enhances strength and rigidity while drilling, reducing breakage in tough materials.
- ✓ Mechanics Length: Reduced overall length provides added strength and rigidity, ideal for confined spaces.
- ✓ Flatted Shanks: Designed for fast and secure chucking in keyless power tools, preventing slippage.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Champion Brute Platinum set for its superior durability and cutting speed. The unique XL28 construction allows for flexibility that traditional cobalt bits often lack, minimizing chipping and snapping. This set is a significant investment for professionals and serious DIYers who demand peak performance when drilling through various metals, including stainless steel and other hardened materials.
Best For
This set is best for automotive technicians, fabricators, and serious hobbyists who need a reliable, high-performance drill bit set for frequent and heavy-duty drilling in diverse metal types.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional longevity and cutting speed compared to competitors.
- Flexibility of XL28 material reduces chipping and snapping.
- 135-degree split point ensures precise, walk-free starts.
- Flatted shanks provide secure grip in keyless chucks.
- Mechanics length design offers enhanced strength and rigidity.
Cons:
- Higher price point due to premium materials and performance.
- May be overkill for very light-duty, occasional metal drilling tasks.
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”
2. DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set (21-Piece) for Metal
The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set (21-Piece) for Metal offers exceptional quality and performance, making it a favorite for both professionals and enthusiasts. The titanium nitride coating enhances bit hardness and reduces friction, contributing to a longer life. Its innovative pilot point tip design ensures clean, accurate holes from the first contact, eliminating walking on various metal surfaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride Coating: Provides increased durability, reduces friction, and extends the life of the drill bits.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip: Designed for clean, precise starts on contact, preventing the bit from wandering.
- ✓ Optimized Flute Design: Facilitates efficient material removal, reducing heat buildup and promoting faster drilling.
- ✓ Durable Case: Comes in a robust case for organized storage and easy transport, protecting the bits.
- ✓ Versatile Performance: Suitable for drilling into various metals, including steel, cast iron, and non-ferrous metals.
Why We Recommend It
We selected the DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point set as an Editor’s Choice for its outstanding balance of durability, precision, and value. The combination of the pilot point tip and TiN coating significantly improves drilling efficiency and bit longevity, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of metalworking tasks. It’s a workhorse set that delivers consistent results.
Best For
This set is best for general contractors, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone needing a reliable, versatile set of titanium coated drill bits for frequent use across different metal types.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Titanium Nitride coating enhances durability and reduces wear.
- Pilot Point tip ensures accurate, walk-free drilling starts.
- Efficient chip removal helps in cooler, faster drilling.
- Comes with a sturdy, organized storage case.
Cons:
- Not ideal for extreme hardened steel or stainless steel as cobalt bits would be.
- Some users might find the case latch mechanism less robust than older DEWALT designs.
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”
3. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal
The DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank, 14-Piece, offers a versatile and budget-friendly solution for drilling into plastic, wood, and metal. Made from high-speed steel, these bits feature a 135-degree split point tip that significantly reduces walking, ensuring precise starts without the need for a pilot hole. The tapered web design provides extreme durability, resisting breakage even during demanding tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point Tip: Minimizes walking and allows for quick, accurate starts in various materials.
- ✓ High-Speed Steel (HSS): Durable construction suitable for drilling in plastic, wood, and a variety of metals.
- ✓ Tapered Web Design: Enhances the strength and durability of the bits, making them more resistant to breakage.
- ✓ 3-Flats Shank: Provides a secure grip in the drill chuck, preventing slippage, especially under high torque.
- ✓ Multi-Material Versatility: Capable of drilling effectively through wood, plastic, and numerous metal types.
Why We Recommend It
This DEWALT set earns our “Best Budget” recommendation because it delivers reliable performance for a very accessible price point. The 135-degree split point and 3-flats shank are features usually found in more expensive sets, ensuring precise and stable drilling. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a dependable, all-around drill bit set without breaking the bank.
Best For
This set is best for DIYers, homeowners, and tradespeople who require a cost-effective, multi-purpose drill bit set for occasional to moderate drilling in wood, plastic, and common metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money with premium features.
- 135-degree split point prevents bit walking for accurate starts.
- 3-flats shank ensures a secure, slip-free grip in chucks.
- Versatile for use across wood, plastic, and various metals.
Cons:
- May not offer the same longevity as cobalt or specialty-coated bits in very hard metals.
- Only 14 pieces, so might not cover all niche sizes for extensive work.
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 Sizes
This 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set for Metal offers a comprehensive range of sizes for various drilling needs. Constructed from robust high-speed steel (HSS), these bits provide excellent hardness and wear resistance for working with metal. The black and gold oxide finish not only adds to their aesthetic appeal but also provides corrosion resistance and enhances the overall hardness of the drill bits, making them ideal for daily use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Comprehensive 29-Piece Set: Includes sizes from 1/16″ to 1/2″ in 1/64″ increments, covering most common drilling requirements.
- ✓ High-Speed Steel (HSS) Construction: Provides excellent hardness and wear resistance for effective metal drilling.
- ✓ Black and Gold Oxide Finish: Enhances corrosion resistance and increases the surface hardness of the bits for extended life.
- ✓ Jobber Length: Standard length for general-purpose drilling, offering a good balance of reach and rigidity.
- ✓ Durable Metal Index Case: Keeps bits organized and protected, with clearly marked sizes for quick selection.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this heavy-duty HSS set for its extensive range of sizes and robust construction. The black and gold oxide treatment provides an extra layer of protection and hardness, allowing these bits to tackle a variety of metals efficiently. It’s a fantastic all-around set for those who need a broad selection of quality HSS bits for everyday shop tasks and home repairs.
Best For
This set is best for workshops, maintenance crews, and serious DIYers who require a wide assortment of durable high-speed steel drill bits for general-purpose metal drilling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide range of sizes ensures versatility for many projects.
- HSS construction with black and gold oxide finish offers good durability.
- Good performance for general metal drilling tasks.
- Comes in a sturdy metal case for organization and protection.
Cons:
- May struggle with extremely hard or thick stainless steel compared to cobalt bits.
- The case can sometimes be difficult to open or close smoothly.
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. M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel, TiAlN Coated
The M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set is specifically engineered for tackling the toughest materials, including hardened metal and stainless steel. Featuring an M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel core with 5% cobalt, these bits boast industry-leading durability and heat resistance up to 1200°F, significantly outlasting standard bits. The advanced TiAlN Nano-coating and 3-flute design ensure rapid, precise cutting with superior chip removal, making quick work of challenging drilling tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt HSS with 5% Cobalt: Offers exceptional heat resistance and durability for drilling hardened metals and stainless steel.
- ✓ TiAlN Nano-coating (89HRC): Provides extreme surface hardness, further extending bit life and reducing friction.
- ✓ Triple-Flute Design: Cuts faster and improves chip removal by 40%, preventing clogging and reducing bit breakage.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip: Ensures precise hole starts without walking, even on slick or curved surfaces.
- ✓ Impressive Cutting Speed: Capable of boring through 1/4″ stainless steel in as little as 8 seconds, demonstrating high efficiency.
Why We Recommend It
For those frequently working with extremely tough materials like hardened steel or thick stainless steel, the M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set is an indispensable tool. Its cobalt composition combined with the TiAlN coating and innovative triple-flute design delivers unparalleled drilling power and longevity. This set is a professional-grade solution for demanding applications where other bits would quickly fail.
Best For
This set is best for metal fabricators, industrial users, and professionals who regularly drill into hardened metal, stainless steel, and other high-strength alloys where durability and cutting performance are paramount.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior durability and heat resistance for hardened materials.
- TiAlN coating provides extreme hardness and extended bit life.
- Triple-flute design offers faster cutting and efficient chip removal.
- 135-degree self-centering tip ensures precise, walk-free drilling.
Cons:
- Significantly higher cost compared to standard HSS or titanium bits.
- Requires proper drilling techniques (lower speed, coolant) to maximize lifespan in hard materials.
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 Drill Bits Metal
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the best drill bits for metal involves more than just picking the first set you see. Several critical factors influence a bit’s performance, durability, and suitability for specific tasks. Key considerations include the bit material, coatings, tip design, and shank type. High-speed steel (HSS) bits are common for general-purpose metal drilling, offering good resistance to heat and wear. For harder metals like stainless steel, cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42) are superior due to their increased heat resistance and hardness. Coatings like Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) further enhance a bit’s surface hardness, reduce friction, and extend its lifespan. A 135-degree split point tip is highly recommended as it prevents “walking” and allows for quick, accurate starts without a pilot hole. Finally, consider the shank type; 3-flats shanks provide a more secure grip in the drill chuck, minimizing slippage during tough applications.
Budget Planning
Your budget will significantly impact the type and quality of metal drill bits you can afford. Basic HSS sets are the most economical, suitable for occasional use on softer metals. Mid-range options often include titanium-coated HSS bits, which offer improved durability and cutting speed at a modest price increase. For professional use or frequent drilling of hardened steel and stainless steel, investing in premium cobalt or specialty-coated bits is advisable. While more expensive upfront, their extended lifespan and superior performance often lead to long-term savings by reducing the need for frequent replacements and improving work efficiency. Consider the frequency and intensity of your drilling tasks to determine the most cost-effective solution.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best drill bits for metal are those that match your specific project needs and the materials you’ll be working with. For general DIY and softer metals, a good quality HSS or titanium-coated set will suffice. If you’re consistently drilling into tough alloys like stainless steel or cast iron, a cobalt set is a worthwhile investment. Always prioritize bits with a 135-degree split point for cleaner starts and look for sets that offer a durable storage case for organization and protection. Proper use, including appropriate drilling speeds and lubricants, will also significantly extend the life and performance of your drill bits, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between HSS, Titanium, and Cobalt drill bits for metal?
A: HSS (High-Speed Steel) bits are good for general-purpose drilling in softer metals like aluminum, wood, and plastic. Titanium (TiN) coated HSS bits have a titanium nitride layer that increases hardness, reduces friction, and extends life, making them better for steel. Cobalt (M35 or M42) drill bits are made from an alloy of steel and cobalt, offering superior heat resistance and hardness, ideal for drilling through hardened metal and stainless steel without dulling quickly.
Q: Do I need a pilot hole when drilling into metal?
A: For most applications, especially with smaller bits, a pilot hole can help guide the larger drill bit and prevent walking. However, many of the best drill bits for metal, particularly those with a 135-degree split point tip or a pilot point design, are engineered to start on contact without the need for a pilot hole, ensuring more precise initial placement and reducing effort.
Q: How can I prevent my drill bits from breaking when drilling metal?
A: To prevent breakage, use the correct drill bit material for the metal type, apply steady pressure without forcing the bit, and maintain appropriate drilling speeds (slower for harder metals). Use cutting fluid or lubricant to reduce heat and friction, and clear chips frequently. Also, ensure your workpiece is securely clamped to prevent movement.
Q: Can I sharpen drill bits for metal?
A: Yes, many metal drill bits can be sharpened, especially HSS and cobalt bits. There are specialized drill bit sharpeners available, or you can use a bench grinder with careful technique. Sharpening can significantly extend the life of your bits, but it requires practice to maintain the correct angle and geometry of the cutting edges.
Q: What’s the best way to store metal drill bits?
A: The best drill bits for metal should be stored in a protective case or index to keep them organized and prevent dulling or damage from contact with other tools. Many sets come with durable plastic or metal cases that have individual slots for each bit, protecting their sharp edges and making size selection easy. Proper storage protects your investment and ensures bits are ready for use.
Choosing the right drill bits for metal is a fundamental step towards successful and efficient metalworking. Our comprehensive guide and top recommendations highlight the importance of materials, coatings, and design features in selecting the perfect set for your needs. Whether you’re a professional tackling hardened steel or a DIYer working on a home project, investing in quality metal drill bits will save you time, effort, and frustration. Don’t settle for less; empower your tools with bits designed for superior performance and durability. Browse our top picks and click here to find the best drill bits for metal on Amazon 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.
