When tackling projects involving metal, having the best drill bits for metal is absolutely crucial. Standard drill bits often struggle, dull quickly, or even break when faced with tough materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or hardened alloys. Investing in high-quality drill bits designed specifically for metal ensures cleaner holes, faster drilling, and significantly extends the life of your tools. From DIY enthusiasts to professional fabricators, selecting the right set can make all the difference, preventing frustration and delivering precise, efficient results every time. Our guide dives into the top contenders, evaluating their durability, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bits Metal Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set for Metal
The DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point Drill Bit Set is an outstanding choice for anyone needing reliable drill bits for metal. Featuring a titanium nitride coating and pilot point tips, these bits are engineered for enhanced durability and precise starts. This set promises exceptional quality and performance, making it a staple for various demanding tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride Coating for enhanced surface hardness and wear resistance, significantly extending bit life.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip Design ensures clean, accurate starts on contact, preventing bit walking and eliminating the need for a pilot hole.
- ✓ Optimal Durability built for rigorous daily use, offering consistent performance across different metal types.
- ✓ Comprehensive 21-Piece Set provides a wide range of sizes, suitable for various drilling applications.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this DEWALT set because of its superior construction and performance. The combination of titanium nitride coating and pilot point tip ensures these bits cut through metal efficiently and accurately, providing a smooth drilling experience with less effort. It’s a versatile set that holds up well to frequent use.
Best For
This set is best for serious DIYers, professional contractors, and anyone who regularly drills into metal, requiring a comprehensive and durable collection of bits.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability due to TiN coating.
- Pilot point tip prevents walking and ensures precise starts.
- Cuts quickly and cleanly through various metals.
- Sturdy carrying case for organization and protection.
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than basic HSS sets.
- TiN coating may wear down over time with heavy abuse.
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 Cutting Tool 29 Piece HSS Mechanics Length Drill Bit Set 1/16-1/2″ Split Point for Metal
The Champion Cutting Tool 29 Piece HSS Mechanics Length Drill Bit Set is an outstanding choice for those seeking superior performance in metal drilling. Engineered to drill faster and last longer than many competitors, these bits boast exceptional quality and reliability. With a 135-degree split point and tapered web geometry, they provide accurate, rigid drilling.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extended Lifespan engineered to drill up to 3 times longer than many conventional drill bits.
- ✓ Faster Drilling Speed designed to cut through material 2 times faster, increasing efficiency.
- ✓ Accurate 135-degree Split Point starts on contact, preventing walking and ensuring precise holes.
- ✓ Tapered Web Geometry enhances strength and rigidity, reducing breakage, especially under heavy loads.
- ✓ Flatted Shanks for secure chucking in keyless power tools, preventing slippage.
Why We Recommend It
This Champion set stands out for its impressive durability and speed, often outperforming even cobalt bits in certain conditions due to its ability to flex without chipping. The thoughtful design, from the split point to the flatted shanks, makes it a reliable and efficient tool for demanding metalwork.
Best For
This drill bit set is ideal for professional mechanics, machinists, and serious DIYers who require high-performance bits for frequent, heavy-duty drilling in various metals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Significantly longer lifespan and faster drilling.
- Superior to cobalt in terms of flexibility and chip resistance.
- Excellent accuracy with the 135-degree split point.
- Flatted shanks ensure secure grip in drill chucks.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic HSS sets.
- May still require cutting fluid for very hard metals to maximize life.
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 Bit Set: Best Drill Bits for Metal, Wood, and Plastic
The DEWALT 14-Piece Drill Bit Set offers versatile and reliable performance for a range of materials, making it an excellent all-around choice. Crafted from high-speed steel with a black-and-gold coating, these bits are designed to resist breakage and ensure clean, precise holes in metal, wood, and plastic. This set combines durability with affordability.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point Tip Design facilitates quick, precise starts without walking, reducing the need for a pilot hole.
- ✓ High-Speed Steel (HSS) Construction ensures durability and longevity, capable of drilling through various materials.
- ✓ Tapered Web Design provides extreme durability and helps to resist breakage under tough drilling conditions.
- ✓ Versatile Application suitable for drilling into metal, wood, and plastic, making it a highly adaptable set.
Why We Recommend It
This DEWALT set is highly recommended for its versatility and robust design at a budget-friendly price point. It performs admirably across different materials, making it a fantastic starter kit or a reliable addition to any toolkit for general-purpose drilling tasks.
Best For
This set is best for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and general contractors who need a reliable and affordable set of drill bits for common tasks involving metal, wood, and plastic.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a DEWALT quality product.
- Good for multiple materials: metal, wood, and plastic.
- Split point tips prevent bit walking.
- Tapered web design enhances durability.
Cons:
- May not be as long-lasting as specialty cobalt bits for very hard metals.
- The case closure design 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!
4. 29-Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Metal Drill Bit Set, 1/16 to 1/2 Inch
The 29-Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Metal Drill Bit Set provides a comprehensive assortment for various drilling needs, ranging from 1/16″ to 1/2″ in 1/64″ increments. Made from high-speed steel with a black and gold oxide finish, these jobber length drill bits offer excellent wear resistance and corrosion protection. This set is designed for consistent performance and outstanding durability.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extensive 29-Piece Assortment covers a wide range of common inch sizes, ensuring you have the right bit for almost any task.
- ✓ High-Speed Steel (HSS) Construction provides excellent hardness and wear resistance for prolonged use.
- ✓ Black and Gold Oxide Finish offers enhanced corrosion resistance and further increases the hardness of the drill bit.
- ✓ Jobber Length design provides a good balance of reach and rigidity for various applications.
Why We Recommend It
This drill bit set is highly recommended for its comprehensive range of sizes and robust HSS construction, enhanced by the black and gold oxide finish. It offers great value and reliability for general-purpose metal drilling, making it a solid choice for workshops and home users alike.
Best For
This set is best for general workshop use, metal fabrication, and extensive DIY projects where a wide array of drill bit sizes for metal is frequently needed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very comprehensive set with 29 pieces in fine increments.
- HSS material and oxide finish ensure good durability and wear resistance.
- Suitable for a wide variety of metal drilling tasks.
- Comes in a robust storage case for organization.
Cons:
- Does not feature a pilot point, so can be prone to walking without proper piloting.
- Less aggressive cutting than some premium coated or cobalt options.
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 Metal Drill Bit Set, TiAlN Coated, Three-Flute for Hardened and Stainless Steel.
The Crosstar M35 Cobalt Metal Drill Bit Set is specifically designed for tackling hardened and stainless steel with exceptional speed and durability. Featuring M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel, a TiAlN Nano-coating, and a unique three-flute design, these bits deliver industry-leading performance. This set promises efficient chip removal and extreme heat resistance, making it perfect for tough drilling challenges.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel infused with 5% cobalt, providing superior heat resistance (up to 1200°F) and 5X longer life in hardened steel.
- ✓ TiAlN Nano-Coating (89HRC) further boosts hardness and reduces friction, allowing for incredibly fast drilling through challenging materials.
- ✓ Unique Three-Flute Design dramatically improves chip removal by 40%, preventing clogging and reducing bit breakage.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip ensures immediate and precise starts, even on smooth or curved metal surfaces.
- ✓ Optimized for Hardened Steel and stainless steel, delivering professional-grade performance.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Crosstar M35 Cobalt set for its cutting-edge design and material science. The combination of M35 cobalt, TiAlN coating, and a three-flute geometry makes these bits incredibly efficient and durable, especially when working with difficult metals where other bits would fail.
Best For
This set is ideal for professionals and serious DIYers who frequently work with hardened steel, stainless steel, and other tough alloys, demanding maximum durability and drilling speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability and heat resistance for hard metals.
- Extremely fast drilling speeds, especially in stainless steel.
- Three-flute design ensures superior chip evacuation and less breakage.
- TiAlN coating significantly enhances bit hardness and longevity.
Cons:
- Higher price point, reflecting the advanced materials and engineering.
- Might be overkill for softer metals or light-duty tasks.
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
When searching for the best drill bits for metal, several critical factors come into play to ensure you get the right tool for your specific needs. The material composition of the drill bit is paramount; High-Speed Steel (HSS) is a common starting point, suitable for softer metals like aluminum or brass. For tougher materials like stainless steel or hardened alloys, you’ll want to look for Cobalt (M35 or M42) drill bits, which are significantly more heat resistant and durable. Coatings like Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) further enhance a bit’s hardness, lubricity, and lifespan, allowing for faster drilling and reduced friction.
The tip design is another crucial aspect. A 135-degree split point tip is highly recommended for metal drilling as it prevents the bit from “walking” or skidding on the surface, ensuring a precise start without the need for a pilot hole. This is especially important for accuracy and safety. Shank type (round, hex, or flatted) can affect compatibility with your drill chuck, with flatted or hex shanks providing a more secure grip, particularly in keyless chucks. Finally, consider the set’s size range and the quality of the storage case, as good organization protects your investment and makes finding the right bit much easier.
Budget Planning
Budgeting for drill bits for metal involves balancing cost with performance and longevity. Entry-level HSS sets are very affordable, often ranging from $20-$40, and are suitable for occasional use on softer metals. Mid-range HSS sets with TiN coatings or general-purpose drill bits like some DEWALT options (around $40-$80) offer a good balance of durability and versatility for frequent DIY use and a wider range of metals. For professional use or tackling very hard metals consistently, investing in premium Cobalt drill bit sets with advanced coatings like TiAlN (which can range from $80-$200+) is a wise decision. While the upfront cost is higher, their superior lifespan, speed, and resistance to breakage will save money and frustration in the long run. Always consider the type and frequency of your drilling tasks to determine the most cost-effective option.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right metal drill bits fundamentally impacts the success and efficiency of your projects. By focusing on materials like Cobalt or high-quality HSS with durable coatings, and prioritizing features like a 135-degree split point tip, you ensure precision and durability. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, there’s a set that fits your needs and budget among our top recommendations. Investing in quality tools not only makes the job easier but also guarantees safer and more satisfying results when drilling into challenging metal surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of drill bit is best for drilling into hardened steel?
A: For drilling into hardened steel, M35 or M42 Cobalt drill bits are highly recommended. These bits contain 5-8% cobalt, which dramatically increases their heat resistance and hardness, allowing them to maintain a sharp edge even in extreme conditions.
Q: Can I use a regular HSS drill bit for stainless steel?
A: While you can use a regular HSS drill bit for stainless steel, it’s not ideal. Stainless steel is much harder and generates more heat, which can quickly dull or even melt standard HSS bits. Titanium-coated HSS (TiN) or, even better, Cobalt drill bits are far more effective and durable for stainless steel.
Q: Why do my drill bits keep breaking when drilling metal?
A: Drill bits can break for several reasons when drilling metal: insufficient pressure, too much pressure, drilling at too high a speed, lack of lubrication/cooling, or using the wrong type of bit for the material. Ensure you’re using the correct bit material, appropriate speed, steady pressure, and always use a cutting fluid.
Q: What is a pilot point drill bit, and why is it good for metal?
A: A pilot point drill bit features a small, sharpened tip that acts like a pilot hole, allowing the bit to start on contact without walking or skidding across the material. This design ensures accurate hole placement and reduces the need for a separate pilot drill, making it highly effective for precise drilling in metal.
Q: Is cooling fluid necessary when drilling metal?
A: Yes, using cooling or cutting fluid is highly recommended, especially when drilling into harder metals. It helps dissipate heat, lubricates the cutting edge, flushes away chips, and significantly extends the life and performance of your drill bit. Without it, bits can overheat, dull quickly, and even break.
Choosing the best drill bits for metal is a critical step for any successful project involving tough materials. Our comprehensive guide has explored a range of top-performing options, from versatile HSS sets to specialized cobalt bits for the most challenging tasks. By considering factors like bit material, coating, tip design, and your specific project needs, you can confidently select a set that delivers precision, speed, and durability. Don’t let inferior tools hold you back; invest in quality drill bits today and experience the difference in your metalworking endeavors. Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to find the perfect set for your toolkit!
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.
