When tackling projects involving metal, having the best quality drill bits for metal is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Inferior bits can quickly dull, break, or worse, damage your workpiece. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a dedicated DIY enthusiast, investing in high-performance drill bits designed specifically for drilling through various types of metal—from soft aluminum to tough stainless steel—will save you time, effort, and frustration. Our comprehensive guide reviews the top options, ensuring you find the perfect set to meet your demanding needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Quality Drill Bits For Metal Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 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 engineered for exceptional quality and performance when drilling through metal. Featuring a durable titanium nitride coating and a unique pilot point design, these bits deliver precision and longevity for a variety of tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Titanium Nitride Coating: Enhances surface hardness and reduces friction for extended bit life.
- ✓ Pilot Point Tip: Designed to start on contact, preventing bit walking and creating cleaner, more accurate holes.
- ✓ Optimized Flute Design: Facilitates rapid material removal, especially when drilling into metal.
- ✓ Robust 21-Piece Set: Provides a comprehensive range of sizes for various metal drilling applications.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this DEWALT set for its outstanding durability and consistent performance. The combination of the TiN coating and pilot point tip ensures efficient and precise drilling, making it a reliable choice for both professionals and DIYers who demand high-quality results.
Best For
This set is best for general-purpose drilling in various metals, including steel, aluminum, and brass, offering excellent durability and clean hole starts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent bit life due to Titanium Nitride coating.
- Pilot point design eliminates bit walking for precise starts.
- Durable construction withstands rigorous use.
- Versatile range of sizes in the 21-piece set.
Cons:
- May struggle with extremely hardened or exotic metals without proper lubrication.
- Titanium coating can eventually wear off with 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. Premium Cobalt M35 HSS Drill Bit Set, 29-Piece, for Hardened & Stainless Steel, 1/16″-1/2″
The Premium Cobalt M35 HSS Drill Bit Set delivers exceptional quality and performance, particularly for challenging materials like hardened and stainless steel. This comprehensive 29-piece set ranges from 1/16″ to 1/2″, making it incredibly versatile for a wide array of metalworking tasks. Crafted from M35 cobalt steel, these bits are designed for superior sharpness, durability, and robust cutting power.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt HSS Construction: Contains 5% cobalt for increased heat resistance and extended lifespan, especially in hard metals.
- ✓ Wide Size Range: A 29-piece set from 1/16″ to 1/2″ ensures you have the right bit for almost any job.
- ✓ 135-Degree Split Point Tip: Prevents bit walking, allowing for immediate and accurate penetration without a pilot hole.
- ✓ Twist Design: Optimizes chip ejection for efficient drilling and reduced friction.
- ✓ Suitable for Hardened Materials: Specifically engineered to cut through stainless steel, iron castings, and copper with ease.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this M35 Cobalt drill bit set as an Editor’s Choice due to its impressive ability to tackle hardened and stainless steel, where standard HSS bits often fail. The extensive size range and robust construction make it an indispensable tool for serious metal fabrication and repair.
Best For
Ideal for professionals and serious DIYers needing to drill frequently into hardened metal, stainless steel, and other tough alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior performance in tough materials like stainless steel.
- Excellent heat resistance prevents dulling at high temperatures.
- Comprehensive set covers a vast range of drilling needs.
- 135-degree split point ensures precise, walk-free starts.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to basic HSS or black oxide sets.
- Can be brittle if used improperly or with excessive force.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I’ve been battling some tough stainless steel projects, and these M35 cobalt bits slice through like butter. The 135-degree split point prevents walking, making my work so much more precise. Definitely a professional-grade set!
Customer Review: For the price, this 29-piece set is an absolute steal. The range of sizes is incredibly useful, and they hold their edge remarkably well even after drilling through thick mild steel multiple times. Highly recommend for any serious DIYer or pro.
3. DEWALT 21-Piece Black Oxide Drill Bit Set with 135° Split Point, Ideal for Metal
The DEWALT 21-Piece Black Oxide Drill Bit Set is an excellent choice for those seeking reliable performance on a budget. This set is ideal for general-purpose drilling across a variety of materials, including metal, hardwood, softwood, PVC, and fiberglass. The black oxide coating and 135° split point combine to offer durability and efficient drilling.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Black Oxide Coating: Provides corrosion resistance and increases overall durability, extending bit life.
- ✓ 135° Split Point: Allows bits to start on contact, reducing walking and providing cleaner holes without the need for a pilot hole.
- ✓ Parabolic Flute Design: Enhances chip ejection, preventing clogging, especially in metal and wood applications.
- ✓ Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of materials, making it a highly adaptable set.
Why We Recommend It
As our Best Budget pick, this DEWALT set offers exceptional value without compromising on key features for metal drilling. Its durability and versatility make it a smart investment for everyday tasks, outperforming many similarly priced sets.
Best For
Perfect for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and light professional use that requires a versatile set of drill bits for various metals and other common materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money.
- Good corrosion resistance from black oxide coating.
- 135° split point ensures accurate drilling starts.
- Effective chip ejection with parabolic flute design.
Cons:
- Not ideal for highly hardened or thick stainless steel.
- Lifespan may be shorter than cobalt or TiN-coated bits under heavy metal drilling.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This DEWALT drill bit set is well-made, sharp, and ready for both professional and DIY projects. The 135° split point design reduces walking and starts holes cleanly, while the durable steel construction holds up well to repeated use on wood, metal, and plastic. A solid performer for general drilling.
Customer Review: For the price point, these black oxide bits are fantastic. They handle mild steel and aluminum with ease, and the coating definitely seems to help with corrosion resistance. Great value for a reliable set from a trusted brand.
4. Cobalt M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel
This Cobalt M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set is specifically engineered for tackling the toughest drilling challenges in hardened metals and stainless steel. Made with M35 cobalt material, these bits boast exceptional hardness and cutting efficiency, ensuring a significantly longer lifespan compared to standard HSS bits.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt Material: Provides superior hardness (up to 67 HRC) and heat resistance, making them ideal for cutting demanding metals.
- ✓ Enhanced Durability: Offers up to 12 times the lifespan of average HSS titanium coated drill bits.
- ✓ Full Grinding Process: Increases wear resistance, maintaining sharpness and durability through prolonged use.
- ✓ Versatile Metal Compatibility: Effectively drills through stainless steel, cast iron, zinc alloy, titanium, and aluminum.
- ✓ Secure Packaging: Comes in a hard, thick plastic box with compartmentalized storage for excellent organization and protection.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this set for its premium M35 Cobalt construction and the rigorous full grinding process, which collectively deliver outstanding durability and sharpness. It’s a top performer when standard bits fail against hardened and stainless steel.
Best For
Recommended for demanding applications involving hardened metals, stainless steel, and other high-strength alloys where lesser bits would quickly wear out.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional hardness and wear resistance for challenging materials.
- Significantly longer lifespan than many competitor bits.
- Maintains sharpness over extended periods of use.
- Robust packaging ensures bits are protected and organized.
Cons:
- Higher price point due to premium M35 cobalt material.
- Can be more brittle than HSS if subjected to side loads or improper technique.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Good quality bits even though from offshore. Stay sharp for a long time.
Customer Review: Had a lug nut stripped. Only way off was to drill lug bolt. These bit eight right through it.
5. 21-Piece M35 Cobalt TiAlN Coated Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal & Stainless Steel
The 21-Piece M35 Cobalt TiAlN Coated Drill Bit Set offers an industry-leading solution for drilling through hardened metal and stainless steel. Combining the strength of M35 cobalt high-speed steel with an advanced TiAlN nano-coating, these bits are engineered for extreme durability, speed, and precision, even in the most challenging applications.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel: Contains 5% cobalt, providing exceptional heat resistance (up to 1200°F) and outlasting standard bits by up to 5 times in hardened steel.
- ✓ TiAlN Nano-coating: Features 89HRC hardness for superior wear resistance, reducing friction and extending bit life significantly.
- ✓ Triple-Flute Design: A special design that enhances cutting speed and improves chip removal by 40%, preventing clogging and reducing breakage.
- ✓ 135° Self-Centering Tip: Ensures precision starts without walking, allowing for rapid and accurate penetration into tough materials.
- ✓ High Efficiency: Capable of boring through 1/4″ stainless steel in as little as 8 seconds, demonstrating remarkable speed and power.
Why We Recommend It
This set is highly recommended for its cutting-edge combination of M35 cobalt and TiAlN coating, which delivers unparalleled performance in hardened metals. The triple-flute design is a game-changer for efficient chip removal, making it a top choice for professionals.
Best For
This set is best for heavy-duty professional use and projects requiring rapid, precise drilling in hardened steel, stainless steel, and other extremely tough alloys.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched durability and heat resistance for hardened materials.
- Significantly faster drilling with improved chip removal.
- TiAlN coating provides extreme hardness and extends bit life.
- Self-centering tip ensures precise and quick starts.
Cons:
- Premium price point reflects advanced materials and technology.
- Requires proper technique and cooling to maximize lifespan, especially in continuous use.
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 TiAlN coated cobalt bits are game-changers for drilling hardened metals. I’ve been pushing them through some pretty tough tool steel, and they just keep cutting. The chip removal is also excellent thanks to the triple-flute design, which prevents binding.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Quality Drill Bits For Metal
Choosing the best quality drill bits for metal can significantly impact the success and efficiency of your projects. With various materials, coatings, and designs available, understanding the key factors is crucial for making an informed decision.
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating drill bits for metal, several critical elements determine their performance and longevity:
- Material: The base material of the drill bit is paramount. High-Speed Steel (HSS) is common for general-purpose use. For tougher metals like stainless steel or hardened alloys, Cobalt (M35 or M42) bits are superior due to their increased heat resistance and hardness. Carbide-tipped bits offer the highest hardness but are more brittle.
- Coating: Coatings enhance performance. Titanium Nitride (TiN) adds hardness and reduces friction, extending life. Black Oxide coating offers corrosion resistance and reduces chip welding. Advanced coatings like Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) provide even greater hardness and heat resistance, perfect for extreme conditions.
- Point Angle: The angle of the drill bit tip affects its ability to penetrate and prevent walking. A 118° angle is standard for general use, while a 135° split point is ideal for metal. The split point allows the bit to start drilling immediately without walking, reducing the need for a pilot hole, especially in hard materials.
- Shank Type: Most bits have a round shank, but some come with a hex shank for quick changes in impact drivers or enhanced grip in drill chucks. Ensure the shank type is compatible with your drill.
- Set vs. Individual Bits: For varied tasks, a comprehensive set offers convenience and cost-effectiveness. However, if you frequently use a specific size for heavy-duty work, investing in individual, high-quality bits of that size can be a smarter choice.
Budget Planning
When purchasing best quality drill bits for metal, budget planning involves balancing initial cost with long-term value. While cheaper HSS sets might seem appealing, they often wear out quickly when drilling through harder metals, leading to more frequent replacements. Investing in cobalt or advanced coated bits, though pricier upfront, offers significantly longer lifespan, better performance, and less frustration. Consider the types of metals you frequently work with and the intensity of your projects. For occasional light metal drilling, a good black oxide HSS set might suffice. For regular or heavy-duty work with tough materials, the higher investment in cobalt or TiN/TiAlN coated bits is justified by their superior durability and efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best quality drill bits for metal are those that match your specific application and material. Prioritize bits made from appropriate materials (Cobalt for hard metals), with beneficial coatings (TiN or TiAlN for longevity), and optimal point angles (135° split point for precision). A well-chosen set will not only improve your drilling results but also save you time, reduce bit breakage, and enhance your overall metalworking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between HSS, Cobalt, and Carbide drill bits for metal?
A: HSS (High-Speed Steel) drill bits are suitable for general-purpose drilling in softer metals like aluminum, brass, and mild steel. Cobalt (M35 or M42) bits contain 5-8% cobalt, increasing their heat resistance and hardness, making them ideal for drilling tougher materials like stainless steel and hardened alloys. Carbide drill bits are extremely hard and offer the best performance in very hard, abrasive materials, but they are also more brittle and expensive, typically used in specialized industrial applications.
Q: Why is a 135° split point tip important for drilling metal?
A: A 135° split point tip is crucial for drilling metal because it prevents the drill bit from “walking” or wandering on the surface when you start drilling. This self-centering feature ensures an accurate start without needing a pilot hole, reduces drilling pressure, and allows for faster penetration, especially in harder materials.
Q: What kind of coating is best for metal drill bits?
A: The “best” coating depends on the application. Titanium Nitride (TiN) coating is excellent for increasing surface hardness, reducing friction, and extending bit life for general-purpose metal drilling. For higher heat resistance and drilling very hard metals like stainless steel, Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coatings are superior. Black oxide coatings offer good corrosion resistance and some friction reduction, making them a cost-effective option for light to medium-duty tasks.
Q: Do I need to use lubricant when drilling metal?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended to use a cutting lubricant or oil when drilling most metals. Lubrication helps to dissipate heat, reduce friction, prevent chip welding to the bit, and significantly extend the lifespan of your drill bits. It also results in a cleaner hole and smoother drilling experience. For harder metals, lubrication is essential.
Q: How can I prevent my drill bits from breaking when drilling metal?
A: To prevent drill bits from breaking, use the correct bit material and coating for the metal you’re drilling. Apply consistent, moderate pressure; too much force can cause breakage, while too little can lead to glazing and dulling. Use appropriate drilling speed (slower for harder metals). Always use cutting lubricant, and ensure your workpiece is securely clamped to prevent movement and lateral stress on the bit.
Choosing the best quality drill bits for metal is a fundamental step towards achieving precision, efficiency, and durability in your metalworking projects. By considering the material, coating, and design features outlined in this guide, you can select the perfect set that withstands the demands of tough materials and delivers superior results every time. Don’t let inferior tools compromise your work; invest in quality drill bits and experience the difference. Click here to explore our top recommendations on Amazon and elevate your drilling capabilities 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.
