Drilling is the most important part of any project. However, any building is made from different material and thus can’t be drilled using the same bit. For instance, you need a soft bit to drill through wood and plastic. On the contrary, hardened metal drill bits are required to make a hole in stainless steel. Therefore, I will provide some recommendations to help you choose the best drill bits for metal.
Iron and steel have been the standard building material since ancient times. Moreover, steel, being already an alloy, is further modified to make it even more strong. Therefore, ordinary drill bits are not effective enough for penetrating such a hardened form of steel. In short, you need high-speed drill bits for stainless steel drilling.
ProTip for a Smart Purchase of Drill Bit
There are over a thousand models of drill bits available in the market. However, most of them are not as perfect as advertised by the manufacturer. Moreover, not every drill bit is suitable to get the job done, i.e., you need a different set of drill bits for different materials.
Therefore, make sure to know your requirements before you make up your mind. It would be best to look for these specifications in any drill bit to ensure the smart choice:
- Material: The material of the bit determines where you can use it. For instance, Cobalt coated bits are best for hard metals, titanium is best for medium to hard metals, and other materials are suitable for softer drilling applications.
- Price: Obviously, no purchase can be called smart if you spent more than needed. Therefore, be sure to check and compare several products before making up your mind.
- Size: The size or the drill bit number is responsible for making accurately sized holes. The different numbers on the drill bits show the diameter in mm or inches of the hole that you can make with that particular drill bit. Therefore, always go with the product that offers the maximum variety of different sizes.
Best Drill Bits for Stainless Steel (Full Comparison)
- 1. DEWALT Cobalt Drill Bit Set
- 2. Neiko 10193A Titanium Step Drill Bit Set
- 3. 99 Pieces Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set
- 4. IRWIN Drill Bit Set
- 5. BeHappy Drill Bit Set 29pcs
- 6. COMOWARE Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set
- 7. STROTON Metric 6% Cobalt Step Drill Bit
- 8. BOSCH 21 Piece Cobalt Metal Drill Bit Set CO21
- 9. Drill Hulk 13-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set
- 10. Hymnorq Metric M35 Cobalt Steel
Quick Picks
If you need just the cream of the list, you can check out these top three best drill bits for metal and steel. All these products have at least one unique feature that sets them apart from the others. Moreover, each product is suitable for a different job. Hence it is best to know your requirements before selecting any of these products.
- Neiko 10193A Titanium Step Drill Bit Set: Top rated drill bits for steel
- IRWIN Drill Bit Set: Strongest drill bits for stainless steel
- BeHappy Drill Bit Set 29pcs: The best all-in-one set of drill bits
Top 10 Drill Bits for Stainless Steel
Drill bits for stainless steel are made from special materials like cobalt or titanium. The alloys of these materials tend to have a similar hardness to diamond. Therefore, this article includes unbiased and top 10 best drill bits for metal reviews:
1. DEWALT Cobalt Drill Bit Set
When you search for anything related to hardware, Dewalt is the first brand that pops up. It is because Dewalt is one of the largest manufacturers of drills and other hardware accessories in the world. Their products are not only highly reliable but unique in their own way. Therefore, when you look at these 14 unique drill bits, you should look for the innovation that sets them apart from others.
Material
As soon as you get the package, you will notice the strong, reinforced plastic case containing your drill bits. However, as I said earlier, you should always look for innovation and uniqueness in DEWALT products. For instance, these drill bits are made from 8% cobalt steel alloy
It is the highest and hardest level of cobalt you can get in drill bits. Therefore, these are the drill bits for stainless steel plates and other hardened steel material. Moreover, their sizes range from 3/8-inch to 1/16-inch, which makes them suitable for industrial-grade drilling.
Features
Material is not the only unique thing about this set of drill bits. Dewalt has paid equal attention to the casing as the bits. The case is made from heavy-duty plastic that ensures protection against falls and other impact damages.
The patented bit bar of the case provides ease of organization according to the functionality of the bits. Moreover, these drill bits have a pilot point tip, which allows you to drill a hole of the preferred size without pre-drilling a smaller hole.
Result
Whether professional or DIYer, you need drill bits that we can use to drill holes in different materials and of different sizes. Therefore, you need to have a specialized drilling bit for every situation. This is precisely what you get in this drilling bit set. These bits are multifunctional and can be used to drill in any material such as copper, stainless steel, plastic, or wood. However, you should not use them on ceramic as that can consume the bits out fast.
| Brand | DeWALT |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Shank Type | Cobalt Alloy Steel |
| Finish Type | Straight |
| Item Dimensions | 8.75 x 1.74 x 8.75 inches |
- High-grade cobalt
- High-speed steel
- Pilot point tip
- Durable and long-lasting
- Affordable
- Reinforced case
- Heat resistant
- Double flute design
- Using them on ceramic material will dull the bits fast.
2. Neiko 10193A Titanium Step Drill Bit Set
The second product on the list is preferred by many technicians, especially engineers. It is because these drill bits use the classic high-speed technology to infuse considerable penetration in any material. Moreover, you will get a total of three bits in this drill bit set, but these bits are sized with increasing diameter. Therefore, you don’t need to carry the whole case of drill bits all the time.
Sizes
The increasing diameter or the step drill bit design allows you to carry 28 sizes in just three-bit pieces. Therefore, this is just about enough for your daily drilling needs whether you work onsite or run a workshop. Moreover, these bits are multifunctional: you can use them to drill new holes or widen previous ones. Hence, If you have some pre-drilled holes in your stainless steel material, you can use these drill bits to enlarge them.
Material
Usually, the high-speed drill bits are covered with a softer material to produce fast speed. However, these bits have been coated with titanium for durability as well as increased functionality. For instance, you can use them to drill holes not only in stainless steel and other metals but also in wood and plastic. Hence, this drill bit is not only durable but multifunctional, and you can use it for a number of activities.
Result
These are high-speed bits, but In addition, the titanium coating helps them to last through the hard drilling of stainless steel. Moreover, the bits are numbered according to diameter, so you know when to stop drilling. In short, these are some of the finest heavy-duty metal drill bits that you can get. However, the steps are not sized correctly, so it is best not to entirely rely on them.
- Titanium coating
- Hardened steel
- Durable
- Easy to carry
- Multiple sizes in just three pieces
- High-speed steel
- Double Flute design
- Size numbering is not accurate.
3. 99 Pieces Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set
Be it a workshop, home garage, or professional use, you need to have the complete set of drill bits to complete the job. However, it is very tiring to collect each and every size, coating, and length of drilling bit separately. Therefore, Hurricane decided to make it easier for you by introducing universal drilling bits set at a reasonable price.
Features
The set is for general purposes, which means you can do most of the household work with this one. There are two variants of these bit sets ranging from the perfect 99 bits set to the legendary 230 piece drill bits set.
Therefore, with this set in your toolbox, you can never run out of drill bits for the job. Moreover, the easy setup makes it particularly convenient for beginners too. Furthermore, all the bits have a split point of 135 degrees that makes sure the bit penetrates quickly and precisely.
Material
The drill bits set is made of heat-treated titanium steel. The high-speed steel stays sharp after rigorous use and still provides clean cutting. Moreover, the colossal package not only includes high-quality drill bits for steel but also a set of different sizes for every material possible. Furthermore, All these bits are stored in a reinforced storage box that not only keeps your bits organized but also keeps them safe from all kinds of damage.
Result
You need different bits to drill different materials in various sizes. However, it is not possible to have the specialized bit for every job in a single set. Well, with this set, it is not possible. Moreover, the bits come with a two-flute design which enables quick escape for the removed materials. However, these bits are not as durable as the cobalt ones, so they are not suitable for heavy-duty work.
| Brand | HURRICANE |
| Material | High Speed Steel |
| Shank Type | Straight |
| Finish Type | Titanium |
| Cutting Angle String | 135 Degrees |
- Universal drill bits set
- Titanium coating
- 99 to 230 bits in one case
- Fit for all materials
- Includes HSS drill bits for hardened steel
- Waterproof, rust-resistant
- Reduced heat buildup.
- Best value for the price
- Not strong enough for heavy-duty work.
The case is not labeled according to the material.
4. IRWIN Drill Bit Set
Whenever professionals seek reliable drilling bits, Irwin is the first brand that they prefer. The drilling accessories from Irwin are highly durable and highly reliable in their operations. Therefore, if your goal is to find the best high-speed drill bits for steel, then you should check this one out.
Features
This 29-piece professional-grade drill bit set from Irwin Tools covers an abundance of applications. You can use these drill bits on every metal regardless of its hardness and type of alloy. The bit circumference spans 0.0625-inch to 0.5inch by increments of 0.0156 inches. Moreover, the 5% cobalt covering provides the same hardness as diamond or tungsten while keeping the but lightweight for higher accuracy.
Material
These drilling bits use cobalt steel for material, so you should expect the highest grade of durability. For instance, the bits themselves are heat and abrasion-resistant and can withstand every type of penetration that you throw at them. These bits come in a rubber-reinforced carrying case to protect the drill bits from accidental drops and are easy to transport.
Furthermore, To aid penetration, these bits feature 135-degree split-tip points. These points not only help in penetrating hardened stainless steel but also keep excavating the metal chunks to keep the sight clear.
Results
This product is the choice of both professionals and experienced DIYers. It is due to the fact that these are the best drill bits for hardened stainless steel. This specialty is challenging to find in almost any drilling bit set. However, you need to maintain these bits well to ensure a long-lasting experience. There is no way to sharpen these bits once they become dull
| Brand | Irwin Tools |
| Material | Cobalt |
| Shank Type | Straight |
| Finish Type | Cobalt Alloy Steel |
| Cutting Angle String | 135 Degrees |
- Ultra-hard
- Highly durable
- Easy to transport
- Multiple material support
- 29 bits set
- Pro reinforced case
- Cobalt steel
- It cannot be sharpened again
5. BeHappy Drill Bit Set 29pcs
BeHappy is a new brand in the market with many exciting products for the technical personnel. This particular drill bits set strikes a nice balance between price and quality. Moreover, their products are not only durable and high-quality but also cost way less than other competitors. Therefore, if you are after a twist bit that is suitable to work on steel surfaces but at a budgeted price, this product is precisely what you are looking for.
Material
These drill bits are perfect for drilling through even hardened steel. The set is a perfect blend of 5% cobalt and molybdenum, and the rest, 95%, is pure HSS. As a result, you get the most durable drill bits that are suitable for even the most rigid material you can find.
For instance, the Rockwell scale says it has an impressive hardness of 67. In short, When you compare it to regular HSS bits, this one is multiple times better in terms of heat resistance and durability.
Features
There are many features infused in these bits that prove beneficial in every condition and situation. The tip is angled at 135-degree and centers by itself during the operation, and the angle helps the bit penetrate with less pressure.
The set consists of 29 pieces of bits ranging from 1/16”-1/2” in size. Moreover, the ultra-strong cobalt coat ensures easy drilling through any metal from cast iron to hardened steel to even softer materials like wood and plastic.
Results
If you are not afraid of trying new stuff, you should definitely give this drill bit a try. They are not only available at a low price, but also the performance is similar to a medium-ranged drill bit set. Moreover, the shank can be used with both round collet chucks and standard drill chucks. However, the bits are prone to heating, but you can increase the service life through proper maintenance
| Brand | BeHappy |
| Tool Flute Type | Spiral |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 8.27 x 4.92 x 2.56 inches |
| Finish Type | Titanium |
| Cutting Angle String | 135 Degrees |
- Durable design
- Multiple sizes
- Easy to handle
- Indexed storage case
- All-in-one set for all materials
- Cobalt coat
- Affordable price
- The bits are not heat resistant and require coolant.
6. COMOWARE Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set
According to recent studies, many people buy stuff just because of the cool packaging. The ComoWare drill bits set is very similar to those products that sell well because of the attractive case. However, it doesn’t make the actual bits any less attractive. These titanium-coated bits are forged to look and act like proper cobalt-coated bits while having the weight and functionality of titanium.
Features
Like any quality piercer, this set of drill bits is also shaped to cut through hardened steel like butter. The sharpened edges, along with the staggered cutting teeth, ensures diamond cut on every surface and material. Moreover, this one also comes with a 135-degree split point that prevents the bit from wandering when it comes in contact with the surface.
The set contains up to 30 pieces of titanium drill bits for stainless steel, ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch diameter and a varying length. The shank is a straight type that attaches firmly to the chuck. You won’t experience wobbling during the operation.
Material
It is a set of drill bits that are made from hardened steel, coated with hard titanium, and forged to act like cobalt. Therefore, this product is even more effective than drilling stainless steel with carbide. Furthermore, the bits are coated with gold oxide.
The solid construction makes it suitable to use against cast iron, stainless steel, titanium alloy, wood, and plastic. The whole package comes in an attractive plastic box that makes it easier to organize the bits.
Results
With this in hand, you’ll be able to cover most of the household jobs as well as workshop tasks. The spiral flute provides an accessible escape channel for chips and debris for a cleaner finish. Furthermore, the angle also makes sure you get maximum infiltration with minimal pressure, enabling smoother chip removal. However, the titanium coating limits the regular use of hardened stainless steel, and the bits may become dull after some time.
| Brand | COMOWARE |
| Material | High Speed Steel |
| Shank Type | Hex |
| Finish Type | Titanium, Steel |
| Cutting Angle String | 135 Degrees |
- Suitable for all materials
- Attractive box
- Easy to organize
- Diamond cut tip
- Double flute design
- Clean finishing tips
- Rustproof
- Prolonged use on hardened stainless steel may dull the bits quickly.
7. STROTON Metric 6% Cobalt Step Drill Bit
You can find many steel drill bits that can cut iron and other soft metals. However, not every bit is suitable for hard metals like stainless steel. Moreover, the extended use of drilling bits makes the shaft heated and may even lead to a broken bit. Therefore, it makes sense that a steel and cobalt drill bit should be used to drill stainless steel.
Material
The inclusion of cobalt makes the bits quite durable and highly heat-resistant. These features are useful when drilling metals such as stainless steel and aluminum. Moreover, the 6% cobalt is also used in the industrial sector, and thus you should expect similar performance and durability from these bits. Moreover, In this bit, you are going to get 15 bits of varying sizes from 4mm to 32 mm in a single place. Therefore, you don’t need to carry any heavy cases everywhere you go.
Features
Being a lone wolf, the drilling bit needs to be universal for every size and material. Therefore, the 6% cobalt coating is suitable for both hard metals and softer materials like wood, plastic, and cast iron. The full groove of the bits gets all chips out of the way fast when you are drilling. It helps increase the accuracy by automatically clearing the way and making room for further drilling. Finally, the heat resistance ensures a non-stop drilling experience without using any additional products like coolants or oil.
Results
There are many beneficial features that you get in this single bit. For instance, it provides you the service that even many full-bit sets fail to provide. The tips of these bits come in the design 135 degrees point split. This makes it easy to start drilling right away as the bit does not stray on the surface that you are drilling. However, it is important that you do not use these bits to drill ceramic or glass as such materials need a diamond bit
| Brand | STROTON |
| Material | Cobalt |
| Shank Type | Straight |
| Surface Recommendation | Pvc,Wood,Aluminum,Stainless Steel,Plastic,Metal,Steel,Iron |
- Premium quality
- Better accuracy
- Highly reliable for hardened steel
- Heat resistant
- Rustproof
- Anti-clog design
- Varying diameter
- Universal drill bit
- Not for ceramic and glass material because it may crack due to extreme pressure.
8. BOSCH 21 Piece Cobalt Metal Drill Bit Set CO21
Bosch is a German manufacturer and is the pioneer of innovation in every field. Be it electrical devices or hardware products, you will always find Bosch to be more reliable than any other. Moreover, we all are aware of German steel and its accuracy, so the same should be expected in this set of drill bits. This set has 21 drill bits. You will get almost all the sizes that you need.
Features
The way that the bits are designed, they do not lock on metal even after drilling through. Sometimes, you might need to drill at an angle. Therefore, the angled shaft design allows you to move your hand even at steeper angles without losing the accuracy and pressure of the drill bits.
Furthermore, the basic technique of making larger holes is to start with pre-drilling a smaller one. However, You get split points with all of these bits. These points help you to start drilling straight away since the bits do not stray on the surface that you are drilling.
Material
Being made from cobalt alloy and German steel, these drill bits are tough and resilient. For instance, they will drill through stainless steel without a struggle and without getting dulled at all. The hardened steel allows you to drill into the hardest material, just like a hot knife in butter. Since you get accurate starts all the time, you can save time and drill faster.
Results
Bosch is known globally to make the most innovative and durable products. Therefore, you should expect no less than the same efficiency as you have seen in their other products. Moreover, it is a complete set of all the materials and sizes that you are going to need in your projects.
Finally, even the bit diameter is clearly etched on the surface of the bit itself, so you cannot make a mistake. However, when drilling stainless steel or aluminum, you have to sharpen from time to time.
| Brand | BOSCH |
| Material | High Speed Steel, Stainless Steel, High Carbon Steel, Cobalt |
| Shank Type | 3-Flat |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 4.6 x 9 x 1.5 inches |
| Tool Flute Type | Spiral |
- German steel with cobalt alloy
- Bosch innovation and reliability
- Easy to drill hardened steel
- Bits can be sharpened
- Heat resistant
- Attractive casing
- Three-flat shank
- You need to sharpen it from time to time because hardened metals make it dull easily.
9. Drill Hulk 13-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set
Drill bits are made differently depending on the usage and the user. For example, a home user may only use his set of drill bits occasionally. On the other hand, a professional takes the services of his tools multiple times in a single working day. Therefore, you need something that can withstand the rigorous abuses of everyday drilling operations. That’s where the drill hulk comes into play. Why? Because he is strong, reliable, and powerful.
Material
You need something more than just carbide or steel to take you through the harsh day of drilling hard material, especially in this age when everything seems to be made from stainless steel or aluminum. You need something that can penetrate tough surfaces like hardened steel, stainless steel, and cast iron, just like a knife through butter. Therefore, the drill hulk bits are made from 5% cobalt and 95% pure HSS to ensure a good experience even during demanding operations.
Features
If the material didn’t catch your interest, don’t worry because the features will. Firstly, the bits have a heavy-duty web in them which increases durability even further. Secondly, The point comes with a 135-degree angle. This minimizes the walk and cuts the material with less force needed.
Finally, the set contains 13 pieces of different sizes. The smallest being 1/16 inch and the largest being 1/4 inch. The whole set comes in a convenient storage box so that you can keep the bits secured and organized.
Results
If you are a professional looking for a reliable drill bit set, this product will surely cheer you up. It has many smart features and a sturdy material that makes these bits resemble the Hulk. However, the bits tend to become dull easily when you use them daily on hardened steel, but you can sharpen them in no time.
| Brand | Drill Hulk Ltd |
| Material | High-Speed Steel and 5% Cobalt |
| Shank Type | 3-Flat |
| Finish Type | Gold Oxide |
| Cutting Angle String | 135 Degrees |
- Powerful drill bits
- Sturdy material
- Durable quality
- Sharpen it easily
- Highly preferable by professionals
- Sharp edges
- Multiple sizes
- Becomes dull easily on hardened steel.
10. Hymnorq Metric M35 Cobalt Steel
Hymnorq is a new player to the game but doesn’t judge it just yet. These are the kind of players that can easily become game-changers. All their products are highly reliable and often used in industrial sector projects. For instance, with this product, you get drill bits of different sizes that can easily go through any hardened material like stainless steel or cast iron.
Material
Manufactured from M35 cobalt steel or, in easy words, 5% cobalt and 95% hardened steel. They possess up to 12 times the typical lifespan of standard high-speed steel drill bits. Therefore, these heavy-duty drill bits from Hymnorq guarantee accurate drilling through metals like stainless steel and copper, etc.
Features
Being the game-changer, it is a universal tool that is suitable for both professionals and beginners. Therefore, this 13-piece metric set covers holes between 1.5 millimeters to 6.5 millimeters in diameter for a number of both hard and soft materials. Furthermore, The 135-degree split-head and quick-cut points first self-center and then penetrate with less pressure for reduced friction and heat.
Results
These drill bits have been the latest people’s choice of 2021. They come with features that are not even seen in some flagship drill bits from well-known manufacturers. Therefore, with proper maintenance, these drill bits are likely to beat some of the best drill bits in the world.
| Brand | HYMNORQ |
| Material | Cobalt Steel |
| Shank Type | Round |
| Finish Type | Bronze Oxide |
| Cutting Angle String | 135 Degrees |
- Durable material
- Best for semi-hard steel
- Different sizes
- Angled shank
- Affordable price
- The bits can’t be sharpened once dull.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
To summarize, there are many factors that you need to consider before choosing your set of drill bits. It is because only a special type of bit is suitable for penetrating a specific material. For instance, cobalt and titanium are the most preferred drill bit materials for stainless steel. I hope this article has helped you make the smart choice in buying the perfect drill bit for your job.
