Ever tried to drill a clean hole in metal, only to have your drill bit slip, overheat, or just refuse to budge? It’s a frustrating experience that can turn a simple DIY project into a major headache. Choosing the right bit for drilling metal isn’t as simple as it sounds, and picking the wrong one can lead to ruined materials, damaged tools, and wasted time.
You might be wondering: what makes one drill bit better than another for tackling tough metal? The truth is, metal is a much harder material than wood or plastic, and it needs a special kind of tool. Understanding the differences between various bits, like those made of high-speed steel or cobalt, can make all the difference between a successful project and a disappointing one.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to know to conquer metal drilling. You’ll learn about the best types of drill bits for different metals and the key features to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to select the perfect bit, ensuring smooth, precise holes every time.
Our Top 5 Bit To Drill Through Metal Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Bit To Drill Through Metal Detailed Reviews
1. DEWALT Drill Bit Set
Rating: 8.6/10
Tackle any drilling job with confidence using the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, For Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184). This set is designed for serious DIYers and professionals alike, offering a versatile range of bits for various materials. DEWALT’s quality craftsmanship means these bits are built to last, making them a valuable addition to any toolbox.
What We Like:
- The 135-degree split point tip means the drill bit won’t “walk” or slip when you start drilling. This makes starting holes much easier and more accurate.
- These bits are made from High Speed Steel, which is tough enough to drill through plastic, wood, and metal without a problem.
- The tapered web design gives the bits extra strength, making them very durable and less likely to break, even when you’re drilling into tough materials.
- A special black and gold coating protects the bits from rust and wear, helping them stay sharp and effective for longer.
- The 3-flat shank design helps the drill bit grip better in your drill’s chuck, preventing it from spinning out and damaging the bit or your workpiece.
- You can quickly find the size you need thanks to the clear size markings printed right on the drill bit shank.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the set is great for general use, very heavy-duty metal drilling might require specialized bits for optimal performance and longevity.
- The case is functional but could be more robust for frequent, rough handling on job sites.
This DEWALT drill bit set provides excellent performance and durability for a wide range of common drilling tasks. It’s a reliable choice that will serve you well for many projects.
2. ZELCAN 10 Sizes Titanium Step Drill Bit
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of switching drill bits for every hole size? The ZELCAN 10 Sizes Titanium Step Drill Bit set is here to make your projects easier. This versatile tool is crafted from high-speed steel with a titanium coating, making it tough and long-lasting. It cuts through various materials like aluminum, copper, plastic, and wood with ease. Plus, it automatically cleans up the hole as it drills, keeping your work tidy.
What We Like:
- Built tough with high-speed steel and a titanium coating for durability and heat resistance.
- Effortlessly drills through sheet metal, plastic, and wood.
- The revolutionary tri-flatted shank grips your drill securely, preventing slips.
- Its two-flute design clears out shavings quickly, keeping the bit clean.
- Comes with 10 different sizes, from 1/4 inch to 1-3/8 inches, covering most common needs.
- Great for home repairs and jobs for DIY enthusiasts and electricians.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not recommended for drilling harder metals like steel.
This ZELCAN step drill bit set is a fantastic addition to any toolbox, offering convenience and efficiency for a wide range of drilling tasks. It’s a smart choice for anyone who tackles DIY projects or needs reliable tools for their trade.
3. MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set
Rating: 8.7/10
Tackle any drilling project with confidence using the MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set. This 13-piece kit features M35 high-speed steel drill bits, designed for tough materials like hardened metal, stainless steel, and cast iron, but also works great on wood and plastic. The set comes in a handy storage case, making it easy to keep your bits organized and ready to go.
What We Like:
- M35 Cobalt bits are super strong and sharp for cutting hard stuff like stainless steel and cast iron.
- The 135-degree tip and twist design helps bits cut faster and stay centered, so they don’t slip.
- You get a good range of sizes, from 1/16″ to 1/4″, to fit most jobs.
- The included storage case keeps your bits tidy and makes it easy to find the size you need.
- These bits are made for long-lasting use, so you won’t have to replace them often.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they handle hardened metal well, extremely tough, thick metals might require more specialized bits.
This MACXCOIP drill bit set is a reliable choice for DIYers and professionals alike. It offers great performance and durability for a variety of tasks.
4. DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set
Rating: 9.2/10
Tackle any drilling job with the DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece (DW1361). This set offers a fantastic range of sizes for all your DIY projects and professional needs. Built with tough materials, these bits are designed to last and perform.
What We Like:
- Titanium Nitride Coating: This special coating makes the bits last much longer.
- Pilot Point Starts on Contact: No more wobbling! The bits start drilling right where you want them, making clean holes.
- No Spin Shanks: The bits stay firmly in your drill, so they don’t slip.
- Tapered Web for Durability: This design makes the bits stronger and less likely to break, even when you’re drilling through tough stuff.
- Wide Range of Sizes: You get 21 bits, from tiny 1/16-inch to a solid 1/2-inch, so you’re ready for almost anything.
- Tough Plastic Case: All the bits are neatly organized and protected in a strong case.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sharpening: While durable, like all drill bits, they will eventually need sharpening.
- Case Size: For some users, the case might be a bit bulky for very compact toolboxes.
This DEWALT drill bit set is a reliable partner for any craftsman. You get excellent performance and durability, making your drilling tasks easier and more efficient.
5. BOSCH TI5IM 5-Piece Assorted Set Titanium Nitride Coated Metal Drill Bits with Included Case Impact Tough with Impact-Rated Hex Shank Ideal for Heavy-Gauge Carbon Steels
Rating: 9.2/10
Tackle tough metalworking jobs with the BOSCH TI5IM 5-Piece Assorted Set. This set features titanium nitride-coated drill bits, making them super strong and ready for hard work. They’re designed to handle thick metal and even hardwoods, giving you the power you need.
What We Like:
- Accurate Starts: The “no skate tip” design helps you start drilling exactly where you want, every time. This means less slipping and more control.
- Built for Tough Materials: These bits are made for heavy-gauge and high-carbon steel, so they won’t break or dull easily when you’re drilling through strong metal.
- Efficient Drilling: The long flutes help clear out metal shavings as you drill. This keeps the hole clean and helps the bit work faster.
- Impact-Ready: The impact-rated hex shank means these bits can handle the extra power from impact drivers. This gives you more torque for faster drilling.
- Less Friction: The titanium coating makes the bits smoother. This reduces friction, so they stay cooler and last longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Set Size: While this 5-piece set is great for many tasks, you might need to buy additional sizes for very specific jobs.
- Durability on Extremely Hard Materials: While excellent for most metal, super-hardened or exotic metals might still show wear over time.
This BOSCH drill bit set is a reliable choice for anyone needing to drill into tough materials. It offers a good balance of durability and performance for a variety of projects.
Choosing the Right Bit to Drill Through Metal
Drilling into metal can be tricky. You need the right tools to get the job done safely and effectively. This guide will help you pick the perfect bit for your metal drilling needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re buying a bit to drill through metal, several features matter.
- Material: The bit’s material is super important. It needs to be hard enough to cut through metal without getting dull or breaking.
- Point Type: Different points are good for different jobs. Some bits have sharp points that start easily. Others have special tips that help prevent the bit from wandering.
- Flute Design: The flutes are the spiral grooves on the bit. They help clear away metal chips as you drill. Good flute design means smoother drilling.
- Shank Type: The shank is the part that goes into your drill. Make sure it fits your drill chuck securely.
- Size: Bits come in many sizes. You need to match the bit size to the hole you want to make.
Important Materials
The material of the drill bit is a big deal for drilling metal.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): This is a common and good choice for many metal drilling tasks. It’s strong and can handle the heat that comes from drilling metal.
- Cobalt Steel: Cobalt bits are even tougher than regular HSS. They are great for drilling very hard metals like stainless steel or cast iron. They resist heat better, too.
- Titanium Coated HSS: These bits have a titanium coating. This coating makes them harder and helps them last longer. It also reduces friction, which means less heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a drill bit better or worse for metal.
- Heat Treatment: How the bit is heated and cooled during making affects its hardness and toughness. Good heat treatment makes a bit last longer and perform better.
- Sharpness: A sharp bit cuts metal easily. A dull bit will struggle, create more heat, and can even damage your drill.
- Coating: As mentioned, coatings like titanium improve durability and performance.
- Manufacturing Precision: Bits made with good precision will be more accurate and less likely to wobble, leading to cleaner holes.
- Cheap Materials: Using lower-quality steel or poor manufacturing processes will result in bits that dull quickly, break easily, or don’t cut well.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the bit and what you’re drilling matters.
- DIY Projects: For simple tasks around the house, like hanging shelves on a metal stud, a good quality HSS bit is usually enough.
- Automotive Repair: Working on cars often means drilling into thicker or harder metals. Cobalt or titanium-coated bits are often recommended here.
- Metal Fabrication: If you’re building or repairing metal structures, you’ll need robust bits that can handle frequent and demanding use.
- Drilling Different Metals: Softer metals like aluminum can be drilled with standard HSS bits. Harder metals like steel and iron require tougher materials like cobalt.
- Lubrication: Using cutting oil or lubricant is essential when drilling metal. It cools the bit, reduces friction, and helps chips clear away. This greatly improves the user experience and the life of the bit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of drill bit for metal?
A: For most metal drilling, High-Speed Steel (HSS) bits are a good choice. For harder metals, consider Cobalt or Titanium-coated HSS bits.
Q: Can I use a wood drill bit on metal?
A: No, wood drill bits are not designed for metal. They will dull quickly, break, and won’t create clean holes in metal.
Q: What size drill bit should I use?
A: The size of the drill bit should match the size of the hole you need. If you need to make a larger hole, you might need to drill a pilot hole first with a smaller bit.
Q: Do I need special oil for drilling metal?
A: Yes, using cutting oil or lubricant is highly recommended. It cools the bit, reduces friction, and helps remove metal chips, making drilling easier and extending the bit’s life.
Q: How do I keep my drill bits sharp?
A: While some bits can be sharpened, it’s often more cost-effective to replace dull bits, especially for DIY users. Proper drilling technique and using lubricant helps bits last longer.
Q: What does “HSS” stand for?
A: HSS stands for High-Speed Steel, a type of steel that is hard and can withstand high temperatures generated during drilling.
Q: Is a titanium drill bit better than a cobalt drill bit?
A: Both are good for metal. Cobalt is generally harder and better for very hard metals. Titanium coating adds hardness and reduces friction to HSS bits, making them last longer.
Q: How do I prevent a drill bit from breaking?
A: Use the correct speed on your drill, apply steady pressure, use lubricant, and ensure the bit is sharp and suitable for the metal you are drilling.
Q: What is a pilot hole?
A: A pilot hole is a small hole drilled first to guide a larger drill bit, making it easier and more accurate to create a larger hole.
Q: Where can I buy good quality drill bits for metal?
A: You can find good quality drill bits at hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers. Look for reputable brands.
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!