Drilling through metal can be a challenging task, whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a dedicated DIY enthusiast. The right tools make all the difference, and when it comes to creating precise, clean holes in various metals, having the best drilling bits for metal is paramount. Standard drill bits often falter against tougher materials, leading to frustrating delays, damaged workpieces, and quickly dulled bits. This comprehensive guide highlights the top drill bits designed specifically for tackling metal, offering superior durability, cutting efficiency, and longevity. We’ve meticulously evaluated a range of options to help you choose the perfect set for your next project, ensuring you achieve professional-grade results every time.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drilling Bits For Metal Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece
The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set is engineered for professionals and serious DIYers who demand durability and precision when drilling through metal. Featuring a robust titanium nitride coating and innovative pilot point tips, this 21-piece set is designed for a longer life and cleaner, more accurate holes from the first contact. It’s a reliable choice for various metalworking tasks, offering outstanding performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride Coating for enhanced surface hardness and reduced friction, extending bit life.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip design ensures accurate starts and prevents “walking” on metal surfaces.
- ✓ Optimized flute geometry for efficient chip removal and cooler drilling.
- ✓ Durable construction suitable for a wide range of metals, including stainless steel and cast iron.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set for its exceptional blend of durability and precision. The pilot point tips are a game-changer for clean hole starts, making it significantly easier to work with metal. The titanium nitride coating ensures these bits stand up to rigorous use, making them a wise investment for frequent metal drilling tasks.
Best For
This set is ideal for professionals and serious hobbyists who frequently drill into various metals, including mild steel, aluminum, and even harder alloys, requiring precise hole placement.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability due to Titanium Nitride coating.
- Pilot Point tip offers accurate, walk-free starts.
- Provides clean, burr-free holes in metal.
- Comes in a sturdy, organized case for easy access.
Cons:
- May require proper cooling for very hard metals.
- Slightly higher price point compared to 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: I’m really impressed with the quality and performance of these DeWalt bits. They hold up incredibly well, even against tougher metals, and the pilot point makes starting holes a breeze. Definitely a go-to set for my workshop.
2. toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal with Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coating and Bullet Tip.
The toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set is an exceptional choice for anyone needing to drill through hardened metals. This 21-piece set combines the inherent strength of Cobalt with a Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coating and a unique bullet tip design. This combination significantly increases surface hardness and heat resistance, ensuring faster cutting and prolonged sharpness, even under demanding conditions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cobalt Drill Bits construction for superior hardness and heat resistance.
- ✓ Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) Coating for extreme durability (up to 89HRC) and reduced wear.
- ✓ Innovative Bullet Tip design for precise starting and efficient material penetration.
- ✓ Comprehensive 21-piece set with a variety of sizes (1/16″ to 13/64″) for versatility.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for its outstanding performance on hardened metals. The combination of Cobalt material and TiAlN coating offers incredible longevity and cutting efficiency, making it perfect for tough jobs. Its ability to maintain sharpness under high heat makes it a top performer in its class.
Best For
This set is best for professionals working with challenging materials such as hardened steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and other high-strength alloys where standard HSS bits would quickly fail.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability and heat resistance for hard metals.
- TiAlN coating significantly extends bit lifespan.
- Bullet tip design ensures quick and precise starts.
- Efficient chip removal reduces clogging and breakage.
Cons:
- Can be more brittle than standard HSS if not used carefully.
- Higher cost due to Cobalt and advanced coating.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I’ve tried many drill bits on stainless steel, and these toolant cobalt bits are by far the best. They cut through like butter, and the coating really helps with heat. Definitely worth the investment for tough jobs.
Customer Review: Finally, a set of drill bits that can handle the hard metals I work with. The toolant bits stay sharp much longer than others I’ve used, and the precise tip prevents any wandering. Highly impressed!
3. Crosstar M35 Cobalt TiAlN Coated Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel.
The Crosstar M35 Cobalt TiAlN Coated Drill Bit Set provides industry-leading durability and exceptional performance for drilling through hardened metal and stainless steel, all while being an excellent value. Constructed from M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel with a 5% Cobalt core, these bits are designed to resist high heat and outlast standard bits by a significant margin. The innovative triple-flute design ensures fast cutting and efficient chip removal, minimizing clogging and breakage.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel with 5% Cobalt for superior heat resistance (up to 1200°F).
- ✓ TiAlN Nano-coating (89HRC hardness) for extreme durability and reduced friction.
- ✓ Triple-Flute Design for 40% faster cutting and enhanced chip removal, preventing clogging.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip for precise, walk-free drilling starts, especially on hard surfaces.
Why We Recommend It
For those seeking professional-grade performance without breaking the bank, the Crosstar M35 Cobalt TiAlN set is an outstanding choice. Its combination of M35 Cobalt and TiAlN coating delivers impressive longevity and cutting power on tough metals. The unique triple-flute design also makes for a remarkably smooth and efficient drilling experience.
Best For
This set is perfectly suited for DIYers and professionals who regularly encounter hardened metals, stainless steel, and cast iron, and require a cost-effective yet highly durable solution for precise drilling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability for hardened metals at a competitive price.
- Triple-flute design ensures fast cutting and efficient chip evacuation.
- TiAlN coating provides superior heat and wear resistance.
- 135° split point prevents walking and allows quick starts.
Cons:
- May require specific drill speeds to maximize longevity.
- Limited range of sizes compared to some larger sets.
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: These Crosstar bits are fantastic! I’ve used them on several stainless steel projects, and they cut cleanly and efficiently. For the price, the quality is exceptional, and they really hold up against tough materials. Highly recommend for any metalwork.
4. Premium HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set for Efficient and Clean Metal Drilling
The Premium HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set is an invaluable addition to any toolbox, offering a versatile solution for drilling multiple hole sizes with a single bit. Crafted from High-Speed Steel (HSS) with a titanium coating, these bits combine excellent sharpness with enhanced durability. Their 118° split point tip and dual-flute design ensure efficient drilling, preventing walking and clearing chips quickly for clean, precise holes in metal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ HSS with Titanium Coating for improved hardness, wear resistance, and longer life.
- ✓ 118° Split Point Tip provides self-centering capabilities, eliminating the need for a pilot hole.
- ✓ Dual-Flute Design for faster cutting, superior chip evacuation, and reduced heat buildup.
- ✓ 5-Piece Set with 50 Sizes offers incredible versatility for various hole diameters.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Premium HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set for its incredible versatility and efficiency. The ability to drill multiple hole sizes with one bit saves time and simplifies projects. The HSS construction with titanium coating ensures good performance and durability, making it an excellent choice for general metal drilling tasks.
Best For
This set is best for DIYers, electricians, and automotive technicians who need to drill precise, clean holes of various diameters in thin sheet metal, aluminum, plastic, and other non-ferrous materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely versatile, covers a wide range of hole sizes.
- Eliminates the need for multiple drill bits.
- Titanium coating enhances durability and cutting performance.
- Self-centering tip prevents walking and ensures accuracy.
Cons:
- Not ideal for drilling very thick or hardened metals.
- Can generate more heat than twist drills in certain applications.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This was an inexpensive set of drill bits, but I only needed to drill holes in plastic for my project so I ordered a set. They worked perfectly which in plastic wasn’t surprising. What is surprising is how well they work for projects with metal. The steps are perfectly spaced so they do not tear through the material.
Customer Review: These are lifesaver, good value for your money. The metal quality is great as well. I use these with my Milwaukee drill and it goes straight through aluminum really good, steel as well. Very impressed with their performance.
5. Cobalt M35 HSS Twist Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron
The Cobalt M35 HSS Twist Drill Bit Set is specifically designed to tackle the toughest materials, including hardened metal, stainless steel, and cast iron. Made from premium High-Speed Steel (HSS) with 5% Cobalt (M35), these bits offer superior heat resistance and significantly greater hardness compared to standard HSS drill bits. The 135° split point design ensures effective and efficient drilling through challenging surfaces with minimal effort.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt Material (5% Cobalt) for extreme hardness and excellent heat resistance, crucial for tough metals.
- ✓ 135° Split Point Design prevents “walking” and allows for immediate, precise drilling without a pilot hole.
- ✓ Fully Ground Twist Design for fast chip evacuation, reducing friction and heat buildup during drilling.
- ✓ Suitable for a broad range of materials, including hardened steel, stainless steel, and cast iron.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Cobalt M35 HSS Twist Drill Bit Set for its outstanding capability in drilling through extremely hard and abrasive metals. The 5% cobalt alloy gives these bits exceptional durability and thermal stability, making them a reliable choice for demanding applications where standard bits would fail. Their efficiency in clearing chips also ensures a smoother operation.
Best For
This set is ideal for machinists, fabricators, and serious hobbyists who frequently drill into tough materials like tool steel, stainless steel, titanium, and other high-strength alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior heat and abrasion resistance due to M35 Cobalt.
- Excellent for drilling through hardened and stainless steels.
- 135° split point ensures precise, self-starting holes.
- Fully ground construction for smooth and efficient drilling.
Cons:
- More brittle than HSS bits, requiring careful handling and speed.
- Higher cost compared to conventional HSS drill bits.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Great value. Used a bit to drill a starter hole in a 1/8th inch thick metal frame and it worked well. I was surprised at how easily it cut through.
Customer Review: These cobalt drill bits work really well. They cut through metal smoothly and stay sharp. The size range is useful, and the storage case is strong and easy to use. Very good quality — highly recommended!
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drilling Bits For Metal
Choosing the right drilling bits for metal can significantly impact the success and efficiency of your projects. With a myriad of options available, understanding the key factors is crucial. This buying guide will walk you through essential considerations, helping you make an informed decision for your metal drilling needs.
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting metal drilling bits, several critical aspects contribute to their performance and longevity:
- ✓ Material: The bit’s material is fundamental to its ability to cut through metal. High-Speed Steel (HSS) bits are common for general-purpose drilling in softer metals like aluminum. For harder metals, Cobalt (M35, M42) drill bits are superior due to their blend with HSS, offering excellent heat resistance and hardness. Carbide-tipped bits are the hardest and best for extremely tough or abrasive metals, but they are also the most brittle.
- ✓ Coating: Coatings enhance a drill bit’s performance. Titanium Nitride (TiN) coating adds a hard layer, improving wear resistance and reducing friction, making bits last longer. Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) offers even greater hardness and heat resistance, ideal for dry machining and harder alloys. Black oxide coatings provide some corrosion resistance and reduce chip welding.
- ✓ Tip Design: The tip’s geometry impacts starting accuracy and cutting efficiency. A 118° point angle is standard for general use. A 135° split point tip is preferred for metal drilling as it’s self-centering, preventing the bit from “walking” on the surface and requiring less pressure. Pilot point tips also offer excellent starting accuracy.
- ✓ Shank Type: Most bits have a round shank. However, a hex shank provides better grip in drill chucks, reducing slippage, especially in impact drivers.
- ✓ Application: Consider the type of metal you’ll be drilling. Are you working with mild steel, aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, or hardened tool steel? Each requires a different level of bit hardness and heat resistance.
- ✓ Bit Set vs. Individual: For varied projects, a comprehensive drill bit set is economical. For specific, heavy-duty tasks, investing in high-quality individual bits might be more suitable.
Budget Planning
Investing in quality drilling bits for metal can save you money in the long run by preventing frequent replacements and ensuring cleaner, more efficient work. While basic HSS sets are inexpensive, they may not stand up to tougher metals, leading to frustration and damaged bits. Cobalt or titanium-coated bits, though pricier upfront, offer superior durability and performance on hardened materials, often proving to be more cost-effective over time. Consider your typical projects; if you frequently work with hard metals, prioritize quality over the lowest price. For occasional light metalwork, a mid-range titanium-coated HSS set might suffice.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best drilling bits for metal are those that match your specific project requirements and budget. Prioritize bit material, coating, and tip design for optimal performance and longevity. Investing in a good set of drill bits tailored for metal will not only make your tasks easier but also significantly improve the quality of your work. Always use appropriate drilling techniques, including proper speed and cutting fluid, to maximize the lifespan of your bits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between HSS and Cobalt drill bits?
A: HSS (High-Speed Steel) drill bits are suitable for general-purpose drilling in softer metals like aluminum, copper, and mild steel. They offer good wear resistance but can quickly dull when exposed to high heat. Cobalt drill bits (typically M35 or M42 grade HSS with 5-8% cobalt) are much harder and more heat-resistant. They are specifically designed for drilling through tougher materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, and hardened alloys without losing their edge.
Q: Can I use regular drill bits for metal?
A: While you might be able to drill into very soft, thin metals with a regular HSS drill bit, it’s generally not recommended for anything more substantial. Regular bits will dull quickly, generate excessive heat, and can easily break or cause damage to the workpiece. For effective and safe metal drilling, always opt for drill bits specifically designed for metal, such as titanium-coated HSS, cobalt, or carbide bits.
Q: What is a titanium coating for drill bits?
A: A titanium coating (most commonly Titanium Nitride or TiN) is a thin, hard ceramic layer applied to HSS drill bits. This coating significantly increases the bit’s surface hardness, improves wear resistance, and reduces friction, allowing the bit to cut more smoothly and last longer than uncoated HSS bits. Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coatings offer even greater heat and wear resistance, especially beneficial for drilling hard metals at higher speeds.
Q: How do I prevent drill bits from breaking when drilling metal?
A: To prevent drill bit breakage when drilling metal:
- Use the correct bit for the metal type.
- Apply steady, consistent pressure, but don’t force the drill.
- Use a slow drill speed, especially for harder metals.
- Employ cutting fluid or lubricant to reduce heat and friction.
- Secure your workpiece firmly to prevent it from moving.
- Clear chips frequently to prevent clogging.
Q: What’s the best speed for drilling metal?
A: The ideal drilling speed for metal depends on the type of metal and the size of the drill bit. Generally, harder metals and larger drill bits require slower speeds, while softer metals and smaller bits can use higher speeds. A good rule of thumb is “slow and steady wins the race” for most metal drilling. Always refer to your drill bit manufacturer’s recommendations or a drilling speed chart for precise guidelines, and use cutting fluid to manage heat.
Selecting the ideal drilling bits for metal is a critical step towards achieving professional results in your projects. Whether you’re a seasoned fabricator or a weekend warrior, our curated list offers top-tier options that prioritize durability, precision, and efficiency. From the robust DEWALT Titanium Nitride set to the heat-resistant toolant Cobalt bits, and the versatile Crosstar M35 Cobalt for budget-conscious buyers, each product brings unique strengths to the table. Don’t let inferior tools compromise your work – invest in quality, and experience the difference. Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to explore these top picks and upgrade your toolkit 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.
