Ever snapped a drill bit while trying to bore through a piece of steel? It’s a frustrating experience, right? Drilling into hardened steel is a challenge. Many DIYers and professionals face this problem. Regular drill bits just don’t cut it. They can dull quickly or break under the pressure. Choosing the wrong bit wastes time and money.
This topic is important because working with hardened steel is common. Think about automotive parts, tools, and machinery. Knowing the right drill bit makes your job easier and safer. The wrong choice can lead to damaged materials and wasted effort. You might also risk injury if a bit breaks while drilling.
In this post, you’ll learn how to select the best drill bits for hardened steel. We’ll explore different types, materials, and tips for successful drilling. You’ll discover which bits can handle the toughest jobs. Get ready to say goodbye to broken bits and hello to smooth, clean holes! Let’s dive into the world of hardened steel drilling!
Our Top 5 Bits For Drilling Hardened Steel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Bits For Drilling Hardened Steel Detailed Reviews
1. BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case – Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.1/10
The BOSCH CO14B is a 14-piece drill bit set. These bits are made for tough jobs. They are designed to drill into hard metals. You can use them on stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and more. The set comes with a case to keep the bits organized. These drill bits can handle high heat.
What We Like:
- The drill bits are made of Cobalt M42. This makes them strong and last longer.
- They have a hardened surface. This helps them drill through tough materials.
- The Cobalt alloy makes the bits last up to 10 times longer than regular bits.
- The bits can handle high heat.
- The thick design makes the bits stable.
- The set includes many sizes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included sizes may not cover every need.
This BOSCH set is a good choice for drilling into hard metals. It is a durable set for many projects.
2. toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro)
Rating: 8.6/10
The TOOLANT Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro is built to drill through metal and steel. This set has 21 drill bits. They are coated with titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) and have bullet point tips. This makes them perfect for tough jobs like drilling hardened metal and stainless steel. The set includes bits from 1/16″ to 1/2″ in size. These bits are made to cut fast and stay sharp.
What We Like:
- The drill bits are made for hard metals.
- The TiAlN coating makes the bits extra strong and heat resistant.
- Bullet point tips help the bits drill accurately.
- The set has a wide range of sizes.
- You get a 90-day warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may need more sizes.
The TOOLANT Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro is a good choice for anyone who needs to drill in metal. The drill bits are durable and get the job done.
3. NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals
Rating: 8.6/10
Need to drill through tough metals? The NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set is made for the job. These drill bits are designed to handle stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and more. They have a 1/4″ hex shank. This makes them easy to use with quick chucks and impact drivers. This set has five popular SAE sizes and comes in a handy storage case.
What We Like:
- These drill bits are made from M35 cobalt steel. This makes them strong and long-lasting.
- The stubby design lets you drill in tight spaces.
- The 135° split point tip helps the bit center itself. This gives you a fast and accurate drill.
- You can use these bits on many hard metals.
- The 1/4″ hex shank fits many drills.
- The storage case keeps the bits organized. It also shows the sizes clearly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The set only includes five sizes. More sizes would be better for some projects.
The NordWolf drill bit set is a good choice for working with hard metals. The bits are tough and efficient. The storage case is a nice bonus.
4. MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set
Rating: 9.2/10
The MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a handy kit. It has 13 drill bits of different sizes. These bits are made for tough jobs. They can drill through metal, wood, and plastic. The set comes with a case to keep the bits organized.
What We Like:
- The set has many different bit sizes. This is helpful for various projects.
- The M35 cobalt drill bits are strong and sharp. They cut through hard materials like stainless steel.
- The 135-degree point tip helps the bits drill quickly and accurately.
- The storage case keeps everything neat and easy to find.
What Could Be Improved:
- No cons mentioned.
This drill bit set is a great choice for many tasks. It is a good tool for both professionals and people who like to do projects at home.
5. Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.1/10
The Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set is built for tough jobs. This 99-piece set includes M35 high-speed steel twist jobber drill bits. These bits are made for hardened metal and stainless steel. They come in sizes from 1/16″ to 3/8″. The set also has a plastic index storage case to keep everything organized.
What We Like:
- The M35 cobalt material is very strong. These bits cut faster and last longer. They can last up to 12 times longer than other bits.
- The full grinding process makes the bits sharp and wear-resistant.
- This set can drill into tough materials like stainless steel and cast iron.
- The plastic storage case is well-designed and keeps the bits organized. You can easily find the size you need.
- The set includes many different sizes.
What Could Be Improved:
- You must use the bits correctly. Follow the instructions for speed and cutting fluid.
This drill bit set is a great choice if you need to drill into hard materials. It is a durable and well-organized set that will make your work easier.
Drilling into Hardened Steel: A Buying Guide
Drilling into hardened steel is tough. You need the right drill bits. This guide helps you pick the best bits for your projects.
Key Features to Look For
You need to know what makes a good drill bit. Here are some things to consider:
- Tip Angle: The tip angle is the point of the drill bit. A 135-degree angle is common. It helps the bit stay centered and start the hole easier. Some bits may have a 118-degree angle.
- Shank Type: The shank is the part that goes into the drill. Round shanks are common. Some bits have a hex shank. This helps prevent slipping in the drill chuck.
- Cutting Edge Geometry: Look for drill bits with split point tips. These tips help the bit start drilling without “walking” or wandering.
- Flute Design: The flutes are the grooves that run along the drill bit. They remove the chips of metal. They should be wide enough to clear the chips.
Important Materials
The material of the drill bit matters a lot.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): HSS is a common choice. It is strong and can handle heat. HSS bits are good for many projects.
- Cobalt Steel: Cobalt steel is even tougher than HSS. It is good for harder steels and high-temperature drilling. Cobalt bits are more expensive.
- Carbide: Carbide drill bits are very hard. They can drill through the toughest materials. They are often used in industrial settings. These bits are usually more brittle.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect the quality of drill bits.
- Heat Treatment: A good heat treatment makes the bit stronger and more durable. This is very important for hardened steel.
- Surface Finish: A smooth finish helps the bit cut better. It also helps remove chips.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for quality. Research the brand before you buy.
- Price: Higher prices do not always mean better quality. Read reviews and compare features.
User Experience and Use Cases
Drilling hardened steel requires patience. Go slow and use cutting oil. This helps cool the bit and reduce friction.
You might need hardened steel bits for:
- Working on car parts.
- Building things with tools.
- Making things with metal.
Always wear safety glasses. Drilling can create metal chips that can fly into your eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is hardened steel?
A: Hardened steel is steel that has been heated and cooled to make it very strong and resistant to wear.
Q: Why do I need special drill bits for hardened steel?
A: Regular drill bits are not strong enough. They will dull or break. Special bits are made to cut through hard materials.
Q: What is the best material for drilling hardened steel?
A: Cobalt or carbide drill bits are usually the best choices.
Q: How do I know what size drill bit to use?
A: Check your project plans. They will tell you the correct drill bit size.
Q: What is cutting oil?
A: Cutting oil is a special lubricant. It helps cool the bit and make it cut easier.
Q: How can I make my drill bit last longer?
A: Use cutting oil, go slowly, and don’t put too much pressure on the bit.
Q: What if my drill bit gets dull?
A: You might need to sharpen it or replace it. A dull bit will not cut well and could break.
Q: Should I use a drill press or a hand drill?
A: A drill press is best for drilling hardened steel. It provides more control and stability.
Q: How do I start a hole in hardened steel?
A: Use a center punch to make a small indentation. This helps the drill bit stay in place.
Q: Can I drill hardened steel without cutting oil?
A: It is not recommended. Cutting oil is very important for drilling hardened steel.
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!