Ever tried to drill a hole in a lock, only to watch your drill bit go dull and your project fall apart? It’s frustrating, right? Hardened steel is tough. Regular drill bits just don’t stand a chance. Working with this material can be a real headache. You might waste time, money, and energy if you don’t have the right tools.
Choosing the perfect drill bit for hardened steel can feel overwhelming. There are so many types, sizes, and materials. You need a bit that can handle the heat and pressure. Otherwise, you risk damaging your work and your tools. The wrong choice can lead to broken bits, ruined projects, and a whole lot of wasted effort.
This post will solve your problems. We’ll explore the best drill bits for hardened steel. You’ll learn about the different materials and their strengths. We’ll also cover tips for successful drilling. Get ready to become a hardened steel drilling pro! Let’s dive into the world of drill bits and conquer this tough material together.
Our Top 5 Drill Bits For Hardened Steel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Drill Bits For Hardened Steel Detailed Reviews
1. DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set
Rating: 9.2/10
The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece (DW1361) is a handy set for drilling holes. This set includes a variety of drill bit sizes, from tiny to medium. The drill bits have a special titanium nitride coating. This coating helps them last longer and drill through materials easier. They also have a pilot point that helps you start drilling where you want. The set comes in a tough plastic case to keep the bits organized and protected.
What We Like:
- The titanium nitride coating makes the bits last longer.
- The pilot point helps the bits start drilling without slipping.
- The bits don’t spin in the drill.
- The tapered web makes the bits stronger. This makes them less likely to break.
- You get a wide range of sizes, great for many jobs.
- The tough plastic case keeps everything tidy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may need more specialized sizes.
Overall, this DEWALT drill bit set is a solid choice. It’s great for both beginners and experienced users. You can use it for many different projects around the house.
2. 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: 9.4/10
The BOSCH CO14B drill bit set is made for tough jobs! This set has 14 drill bits. They are made from Cobalt M42, which is a strong metal. These bits can drill into hard materials like stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and light-gauge metal. The set comes with a case to keep the bits organized. This set is a great choice for people who need to drill into tough materials.
What We Like:
- The drill bits are very durable. They are built to last a long time.
- These bits can handle high heat. This is important when drilling into hard materials.
- The set includes a wide range of sizes. You can use them for many different projects.
- The cobalt alloy makes the bits last much longer than standard bits.
- The hardened tip helps to penetrate tough materials.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a wider variety of sizes.
Overall, the BOSCH CO14B drill bit set is a great tool for anyone who works with metal. The bits are strong, and the set is well-made. If you need to drill into tough materials, this set is a good option for you.
3. MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set
Rating: 9.4/10
The MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a 13-piece kit built to handle tough jobs. These drill bits are made of M35 cobalt steel. They are designed to cut through hard materials like stainless steel and cast iron. You can also use them on softer materials like wood and plastic. This set includes a range of sizes from 1/16″ to 1/4″. The set comes with a handy storage case.
What We Like:
- Various Sizes: The set has 13 different sizes. You will likely find the size you need.
- Durable Material: The M35 cobalt steel is strong. It is built to last and cut through hard materials.
- Fast Cutting: The 135-degree point and twist design help drill faster. The bits self-center and remove debris easily.
- Versatile Use: These drill bits work on many materials. You can use them on metal, wood, and plastic.
- Easy Storage: The included case keeps the bits organized. You can easily find the size you need.
What Could Be Improved:
- No Cons Mentioned
This MACXCOIP drill bit set is a good choice for both professionals and DIYers. It is versatile and well-made, offering great value for the money.
4. NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals
Rating: 8.5/10
The NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set is built for tough jobs. These drill bits are made for drilling into stainless steel and other hard metals. They have a 1/4″ hex shank. This means they fit quickly into quick-change chucks and impact drivers. This set includes popular SAE sizes. It also comes in a handy storage case.
What We Like:
- These drill bits are made with M35 Cobalt steel. This makes them strong and long-lasting.
- The stubby design lets you get into tight spaces.
- The 135° split point helps with centering and fast drilling.
- They work well on many hard metals like cast iron and titanium.
- The 1/4-inch hex shank works with many tools.
- The storage case keeps the bits organized. The sizes are easy to see.
What Could Be Improved:
- The set only has five sizes.
Overall, the NordWolf drill bit set is a great choice for working with hard metals. These bits will help you get the job done quickly and easily.
5. Drill Bit Set 4 Pcs Solid Carbide Drill Bits
Rating: 9.4/10
Need to drill through tough metals? The HOYUSK Drill Bit Set is here to help! This set includes four solid carbide drill bits in sizes 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/16″, and 1/16″. They are made for precision work. These bits are coated with TISIN and designed for stainless steel, hardened steel, cast iron, and more. This set is perfect for professionals and DIYers who need strong, reliable drill bits.
What We Like:
- Precision sizes make detailed work easy.
- Made from strong tungsten steel for long life.
- Sharp spiral flutes cut smoothly and fast.
- Works with many different metals.
- The stable design prevents slipping.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires high-precision tools for best results.
The HOYUSK Drill Bit Set is a strong and versatile tool for metal drilling. Just make sure you have the right equipment to use them correctly for the best results!
Drill Bits for Hardened Steel: A Buying Guide
Drilling into hardened steel is tough. You need the right tools. This guide will help you pick the best drill bits for the job.
Key Features to Look For
You need to find drill bits that can handle hard steel. Here are some important things to consider:
- Material: The drill bit’s material is very important. Look for bits made of cobalt or tungsten carbide. These are strong. They are designed to cut through tough metals.
- Tip Angle: The tip angle is how sharp the drill bit is at the end. A 135-degree tip angle is often best. It helps the bit start drilling without wandering.
- Shank Type: The shank is the part that goes into the drill. You can use round shanks or hex shanks. Make sure the shank fits your drill.
- Coating: Some drill bits have coatings. Coatings like titanium nitride (TiN) can reduce friction. This helps the bit last longer and drill better.
- Flute Design: The flutes are the grooves on the side of the drill bit. They remove the metal shavings. Good flutes help the bit drill faster and cooler.
Important Materials
The material the drill bit is made of matters a lot. Here’s what you need to know:
- Cobalt Drill Bits: These are a popular choice. Cobalt bits are very hard and heat-resistant. They work well on hardened steel.
- Tungsten Carbide Drill Bits: These are even harder than cobalt. They are extremely durable. They are great for very hard steels and other tough materials.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) with Additives: Some HSS bits have cobalt or other additives. These bits are stronger and can handle harder materials.
Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect how good a drill bit is:
- Heat Treatment: A good heat treatment process makes the bit stronger. It also makes it last longer.
- Manufacturing Precision: The bit needs to be made accurately. Poorly made bits break easily.
- Sharpness: A sharp bit cuts better. Dull bits don’t work well.
- Coating Quality: A good coating reduces friction and wear. It helps the bit last longer.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making high-quality drill bits.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using drill bits for hardened steel can be tricky. Here’s what you should know:
- Use a Drill Press: A drill press is better than a handheld drill. It provides more control and accuracy.
- Go Slow: Don’t force the bit. Drill slowly. Let the bit do the work.
- Use Cutting Oil: Cutting oil helps cool the bit. It also lubricates the drilling process. This extends the life of the drill bit.
- Secure the Workpiece: Make sure the metal you are drilling is clamped down. This keeps it from moving.
- Start with a Pilot Hole: Use a smaller drill bit to make a pilot hole first. This helps the larger bit start drilling accurately.
- Use Cases: These drill bits are for:
- Working on car parts.
- Making repairs on machinery.
- Working on tools.
- Projects that involve hard metal.
FAQ: Drill Bits for Hardened Steel
Q: What’s the best material for drilling hardened steel?
A: Cobalt or tungsten carbide are the best choices.
Q: What tip angle is best for hardened steel?
A: A 135-degree tip angle is often recommended.
Q: Do I need to use cutting oil?
A: Yes! Cutting oil helps cool the bit and lubricates the process, making it last longer.
Q: What’s the difference between cobalt and tungsten carbide?
A: Tungsten carbide is even harder than cobalt. It is best for the toughest steels.
Q: Can I use a regular drill bit for hardened steel?
A: No. Regular HSS bits usually won’t work. They’ll dull quickly or break.
Q: How do I prevent the drill bit from wandering?
A: Use a 135-degree tip angle and start with a pilot hole.
Q: What kind of drill is best for hardened steel?
A: A drill press is usually the best option. It offers more control.
Q: How do I know when to replace a drill bit?
A: When it becomes dull or breaks. It’s usually time to replace it.
Q: Is a coating important?
A: Yes. Coatings like TiN can reduce friction and increase the bit’s lifespan.
Q: Where can I buy drill bits for hardened steel?
A: You can find them at hardware stores and online retailers.
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!