Ever tried to drill through a tough piece of steel and felt like you were wrestling a bear? It’s a frustrating experience, right? Choosing the correct bit for drilling steel can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces. You want a bit that cuts cleanly and quickly, but you also don’t want to break it or wear it out too soon. Picking the wrong one means wasted time, money, and a lot of gritted teeth.
But what if there was a way to make this process much simpler? In this post, we’re going to break down the secrets to finding the perfect drill bit for your steel projects. You’ll learn what makes a bit great for steel, how to spot the good ones, and what to avoid. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to pick the right bit every time, making your drilling tasks easier and more successful.
Our Top 5 Bit For Drilling Steel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Bit For Drilling Steel Detailed Reviews
1. NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals
Rating: 9.5/10
Tackling tough metal projects just got easier with the NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set. This set is built for drilling into stainless steel and other hard metals. Its special design helps you get into tight spots. The M35 cobalt steel makes these drill bits strong and long-lasting.
What We Like:
- These drill bits are made from high-quality M35 Cobalt steel, which means they are very durable and will last a long time.
- The stubby design is great for tight spaces. They are only about 2 inches long, so they fit where regular drill bits can’t.
- The 135° split point tip helps the drill bit stay centered and start drilling quickly without slipping.
- This set is perfect for drilling stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and aluminum.
- The 1/4-inch hex shank works with most drills and impact drivers, making them easy to switch out.
- It includes five popular SAE sizes: 3/32″, 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″, and 5/16″.
- The special plastic case keeps everything organized and makes it easy to see which size you need. It even has a clip for hanging on a pegboard.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the stubby size is good for tight spaces, it might not be ideal for drilling deeper holes where a longer bit is needed.
- The set only includes five common sizes. More sizes could be helpful for a wider range of projects.
This NordWolf drill bit set is a solid choice for anyone who frequently works with hard metals. Its durable construction and smart design make it a reliable tool for your workshop.
2. STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set (1/16-1/4 Inch
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of drill bits that quit before the job is done? The STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set is here to power through your toughest projects. This 13-piece set, ranging from 1/16 to 1/4 inch, is built for serious work. They’re made from M35 High Speed Steel with real 5% cobalt, meaning they’re tough enough for stainless steel, hard metal, cast iron, plastic, and wood.
What We Like:
- True 5% Cobalt Steel: These bits are made with genuine cobalt from their own mine. This gives them amazing heat, wear, and chip resistance, lasting up to three times longer than regular bits.
- Split Point Design: The split point makes starting holes easier and prevents bits from wandering. This design is perfect for heavy-duty tasks like drilling into stainless steel or removing stubborn bolts.
- 3X Faster Drilling: You can drill three times faster with these bits. Even though they cost a bit more, you save money in the long run because each bit drills many more holes.
- Sharp Edges: The sharp edges on these drill bits cut through even hardened metal easily, leaving smooth, clean holes.
- Comprehensive Size Range: The set includes 13 common jobber-length bits in 1/64-inch increments, covering most everyday drilling needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Higher Initial Cost: The premium cobalt material means these bits have a higher price tag compared to standard drill bits.
- Availability of Larger Sizes: This set focuses on smaller diameters. For very large drilling jobs, you’d need different bits.
If you need drill bits that can handle tough materials and last a long time, this STROTON set is a smart investment. They make difficult drilling jobs much easier.
3. HIDOTOL 13 PCS Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits 1/16″-1/4″ for Hardened Metal
Rating: 9.0/10
Tackle tough drilling jobs with the HIDOTOL 13 PCS Cobalt Drill Bit Set. This set features M35 HSS twist drill bits ranging from 1/16″ to 1/4″, designed to cut through hardened metal, stainless steel, cast iron, plastic, and wood.
What We Like:
- The M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel makes these bits super strong. They last much longer than regular drill bits, especially when you’re drilling hard stuff.
- The 135° split point helps the drill bit start right where you want it. It stops the bit from sliding around, making your holes neat and quick.
- The twist design helps clear out dust and chips fast. This keeps the bit cooler and drilling smoother.
- These bits are great for tricky materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and even titanium. They also work well on hard plastics and wood.
- The set comes with 13 different sizes, all neatly organized in a tough plastic case. It’s easy to find the size you need.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for hard materials, these bits might be overkill and wear down faster on softer woods if not used carefully.
- The smallest bits (1/16″) can be delicate and might break if too much pressure is applied.
This HIDOTOL drill bit set is a solid choice for DIYers and professionals who need reliable bits for challenging projects. You get a lot of value for the quality you receive.
4. Cobalt Drill Bit Set 10PCS
Rating: 9.0/10
Tackle tough jobs with the Cobalt Drill Bit Set. This 10-piece kit features M35 Jobber Length twist drill bits. They are designed for hard metals like stainless steel and cast iron, but also work great on wood and plastic. The set comes with a handy storage case to keep everything organized.
What We Like:
- Made with M35 cobalt high-speed steel, these bits are super tough and resist heat well.
- The 135° split point design helps the bit start drilling right away without slipping.
- These bits are fully ground for precise holes and have a smooth surface that reduces friction for faster drilling.
- The double helix chip removal groove quickly clears out debris, preventing jams and making your work faster.
- It includes 10 different sizes from 1/16″ to 13/64″, covering most common drilling needs.
- A sturdy plastic case keeps your drill bits safe and easy to find.
What Could Be Improved:
- The set includes a good range of sizes, but for very large or very small holes, you might need separate bits.
This drill bit set is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable bits for various materials. It offers great performance and durability for its price.
5. COMOWARE 15Pcs Drill Bit Set (1/16″-3/8″)
Rating: 8.7/10
Tackle your toughest drilling jobs with the COMOWARE 15Pcs M35 HSS Cobalt Drill Bit Set. This set offers a wide range of sizes, from 1/16″ to 3/8″, perfect for various projects. The drill bits are made from high-speed steel mixed with 5% cobalt, making them super strong and resistant to heat and wear. This means they last longer, especially when drilling through tough materials like stainless steel and iron. The 135° split point tips help the bits start drilling easily without slipping, and the twist design helps clear away metal dust. Everything comes neatly organized in a durable metal case with a size index, so you can always find the right bit quickly.
What We Like:
- Made with M35 cobalt HSS for extra strength and a longer tool life, especially in hard metals like stainless steel.
- Includes 15 different sizes from 1/16″ to 3/8″, covering most common drilling needs.
- The 135° split point tip makes starting holes easy and prevents the bit from wandering.
- The twist design helps remove chips efficiently, keeping your work clean.
- Comes with a sturdy metal case that keeps all the bits organized and easy to find.
- Works well on a variety of materials, including steel, stainless steel, iron, wood, and plastic.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for many tasks, these bits might not be the absolute best for extremely heavy-duty industrial drilling compared to specialized bits.
- For very small or very large diameter holes, you might need additional specialized bits not included in this set.
This COMOWARE drill bit set is a reliable and versatile choice for both DIYers and professionals. It provides excellent performance and durability for a wide range of drilling applications.
Choosing the Right Bit for Drilling Steel: Your Essential Guide
Drilling into steel might seem tough, but with the right drill bit, it’s a job you can handle. This guide will help you pick the perfect bit so your projects go smoothly.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a steel drill bit, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Point Type: This is how the tip of the bit is shaped.
- Split Point: These bits start drilling right away without “walking” or slipping. They are great for precise starting.
- Self-Centering Point: Similar to split points, these also prevent slipping and make starting easier.
- Standard Point: These are common but might require you to mark your spot and start slowly.
- Flute Design: The flutes are the spiral grooves on the bit.
- Deep Flutes: These help remove metal chips quickly, preventing the bit from overheating.
- Shallow Flutes: Not ideal for steel as they can clog easily.
- Coatings: Some bits have special coatings.
- Titanium Nitride (TiN): This yellow coating makes the bit harder and more heat-resistant. It helps the bit last much longer.
- Black Oxide: This coating adds some corrosion resistance and reduces friction. It’s a good all-around choice.
- Cobalt: This is not a coating but an additive to the steel itself. We’ll talk more about this later.
2. Important Materials
The material of the drill bit is super important for drilling steel.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): This is a common and affordable material. HSS bits can drill through softer steels. They get hot quickly, though.
- Cobalt Steel: This is a tougher and more heat-resistant version of HSS. Cobalt bits are excellent for drilling harder steels. They cost more but last much longer.
- Carbide: These bits are the hardest and most heat-resistant. They are best for very tough metals and professional use. They are also the most expensive.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a drill bit better or worse for steel.
- What Makes a Bit Better:
- High-Quality Steel: Using good materials like cobalt or carbide makes a big difference.
- Precise Sharpening: A sharp bit cuts cleaner and faster.
- Good Coatings: Coatings like titanium nitride help the bit stay sharp and cool.
- Strong Construction: A bit that feels solid and doesn’t bend easily is better.
- What Makes a Bit Worse:
- Cheap Materials: Bits made from low-quality steel will dull quickly.
- Poor Sharpening: Dull bits struggle to cut and can overheat.
- No Coatings: Uncoated bits can rust and wear out faster.
- Thin or Weak Design: A flimsy bit can break easily.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the bit and what you’re drilling matters.
- For Beginners and DIYers: HSS bits with a titanium coating are a great starting point. They work well for most common steel projects around the house. A split point makes starting holes much easier.
- For Metalworkers and Professionals: Cobalt or carbide bits are essential for harder steels or frequent drilling. These bits handle tough jobs and last longer, saving time and money in the long run.
- Specific Use Cases:
- Home Repairs: Drilling through metal brackets or thin sheet metal.
- Woodworking Projects: Attaching metal hardware to wood.
- Automotive Work: Drilling into car parts or frames.
- Construction: Creating holes in steel beams or pipes.
Remember to always use a lubricant like cutting oil when drilling steel. This keeps the bit cool and helps it cut better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of drill bit for steel?
A: For general steel drilling, high-speed steel (HSS) bits with a titanium nitride (TiN) coating are a good choice. For harder steels, cobalt bits are recommended.
Q: How do I prevent a drill bit from breaking when drilling steel?
A: Use the right speed for your drill, apply steady pressure, and use a cutting lubricant. Don’t force the bit. Ensure the bit is sharp.
Q: What’s the difference between HSS and Cobalt drill bits?
A: Cobalt bits are made with added cobalt, making them harder and more heat-resistant than standard HSS bits. This means they last longer when drilling tough materials like steel.
Q: Do I need a special drill for steel bits?
A: No, you can use standard drills. However, make sure your drill has enough power and speed settings for drilling metal. A drill press can provide more stability and accuracy.
Q: How long should a good steel drill bit last?
A: The lifespan depends on the material, the hardness of the steel you’re drilling, and how you use it. High-quality cobalt or carbide bits used correctly can last for hundreds of holes. HSS bits will wear out faster.
Q: Should I use oil when drilling steel?
A: Yes, using a cutting lubricant or oil is highly recommended. It cools the bit, reduces friction, helps remove chips, and makes drilling easier and smoother.
Q: What is a split point drill bit?
A: A split point is a type of tip on a drill bit that helps it start drilling immediately without slipping or “walking” across the surface. It’s great for precision work.
Q: Can I use a wood drill bit for steel?
A: No, wood drill bits are not designed for metal. They will dull very quickly, can damage the steel, and are not safe to use. Always use a bit made for metal.
Q: How do I know if my drill bit is dull?
A: A dull bit will make a squealing noise, require more force to drill, produce rougher holes, and may overheat quickly. It won’t cut cleanly.
Q: Are expensive drill bits worth it for steel?
A: For frequent or demanding steel drilling, yes. More expensive bits made from cobalt or carbide, and with good coatings, will last longer, drill faster, and give better results, saving you money and frustration in the long run.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!