Steel Drill Bits

Mr. Paul Bell
18 min readJun 5, 2024

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If you’re in the market for top-quality steel drill bits, you’ve come to the right place. In this roundup, we’ve carefully selected the best options available, ensuring that each one is durable, efficient, and designed to meet the demands of even the most challenging projects. From high-speed steel to cobalt, our steel drill bits are sure to impress and help you tackle any task with ease.

The Top 13 Best Steel Drill Bits

  1. Premium Steel Drill Set for Tough Jobs — Norseman 58660 Sp-25m Type 643-Ub Drills — Experience unmatched quality and durability with the 25pc Norseman 58660 Sp-25m Type 643-Ub Magnum Jobber Drill Set, featuring 135-degree split point for enhanced accuracy and performance, made in the USA with NAS 907 Hi-Molybdenum tool steel.
  2. COMOWARE Cobalt High-Speed Drill Bit Set with Metal Indexed Storage Case — Upgrade your drilling experience with the COMODORE Cobalt 13-piece High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bit Set, designed for versatility and durability in metal, cast iron, plastic, and wood applications.
  3. High-Speed Steel Drill Bits for Stainless Steel and Metal — Experience superior drilling performance with STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set, engineered with M35 high-speed steel and designed to handle tough materials like stainless steel, hard metal, cast iron, and more.
  4. High-Speed Steel Drill Bit Set with Titanium Twist by Harfington — Strengthen your drilling experience with this 99pcs Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set, featuring durable high-speed steel construction, precise drilling, and versatile size options, perfect for a wide range of materials and drilling applications.
  5. Anfrere 3 Step Steel Sheet Drill Bits — Experience exceptional durability and versatility with the Anfrere 3 Sizes M2 Step Drill Bit, perfect for a wide range of home and professional projects.
  6. High-Speed Cobalt Steel Drill Bit Set for Hard Surfaces — Drill through the toughest materials with the versatile Cobalt Drill Bit Set, a precision tool for woodworking and drilling operations requiring accuracy and durability.
  7. MACXCOIP High-Quality Cobalt Drill Bit Set — The MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set offers 29 M35 high-speed steel bits for various materials, delivering quick, efficient, and long-lasting performance with self-centering tips.
  8. Heavy-Duty Reduced Shank High-Speed Steel Drill Bit for Metal, Stainless, and Hard Metal Drilling — The Drill America 1–1/2" Reduced Shank High Speed Steel Drill Bit is a versatile, high-quality tool designed to efficiently drill through wood, metal, and stainless steel, backed by a premium 5.0-star rating in just 2 reviews.
  9. DRILLFORCE Titanium Coated Twist Drill Bits for Mild Steel, Copper, and Aluminum — DRILLFORCE HSS Jobber Length 10 PCS provide reliable drilling capabilities on mild steel, copper, and aluminum with its Titanium Coated, High-Speed Steel construction and innovative 135 tip design.
  10. Super Premium Cobalt M42+ Steel Drill Bit Set — Unleash your drilling prowess with the Super Premium Cobalt M42+ Steel Drill Bit Set — engineered for maximum performance and durability, now available in an eye-catching orange steel case.
  11. CORTOOL 29-Piece High-Speed Steel Drill Bit Set — Experience professional-grade drilling with the CORTOOL 29-Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set, featuring a self-centering split point for smooth penetration and a durable storage case.
  12. Behappy High-Performance Wood Drill Bit Set — Upgrade your drilling experience with the Behappy Drill Bit Set — a 29 piece, titanium coated, high-speed steel set perfect for efficient metal and wood drilling tasks, designed for durability and precision.
  13. High-Speed Cobalt Steel Drill Bit Set for Hard Materials — Experience unmatched precision, durability, and versatility with the HIDOTOL Cobalt Drill Bit Set, designed for cutting through hardened metals, stainless steel, cast iron, plastics, and more.

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Reviews

Premium Steel Drill Set for Tough Jobs — Norseman 58660 Sp-25m Type 643-Ub Drills

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The Norseman 58660 Sp-25m Type 643-Ub 135-degree split point magnum jobber drill set is a high-quality, durable, and versatile tool designed to handle tough jobs with precision and ease. The drill set comes with 25 pieces, each featuring a 135-degree split point that ensures accurate centering and fast penetration. With a precision-ground point, flutes, body, and clearance, this drill set provides ultimate accuracy and performance. The special Hi-Molybdenum tool steel and Gold Oxide combination make it durable and long-lasting, even in the most demanding applications.

The Norseman 58660 sp-25m Type 643-Ub drill set has received 4.9 out of 5 stars from users and comes with an extensive selection of U. S. -manufactured tools, made to the highest standards. The company, Viking Drill and Tool, prides itself on its long-lasting and consistent high-quality cutting tools, thanks to its skilled machine operators and use of rigorous materials that meet the National Aerospace Standard (NAS) 907. It’s a smart choice for professionals seeking superior performance and durability in their tools.

COMOWARE Cobalt High-Speed Drill Bit Set with Metal Indexed Storage Case

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This versatile 13-piece drill bit set, COMOWARE’s Cobalt Drill Bit Set, offers a reliable solution for various tasks. Featuring HSS M35 Cobalt 5% technology, these drill bits boast higher heat and abrasion resistance, making them suitable for hardened materials like stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics, and woods. The set includes a handy metal indexed storage case, ensuring organization and easy access to the bits.

With a precise 135° split point and twist design, these drill bits offer seamless and efficient chip removal, enhancing overall performance. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this COMOWARE set is bound to become your go-to tool for a variety of applications.

High-Speed Steel Drill Bits for Stainless Steel and Metal

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Incorporating the STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set into my daily toolkit has been quite a game-changer. With its split point design tip, I’ve found that it starts drilling immediately with less force, eliminating the “walking” motion across the work surface that I often encounter with other drill bits. The high-speed steel infused with Cobalt makes this set stand out; it holds up better than generic HSS, providing superior heat and wear resistance.

The Premium Cobalt used in the STROTON set has a worth of $80,000 per ton, which speaks volumes about the quality of these drill bits. The M35 5% Cobalt drill bits are versatile, capable of cutting through various materials like stainless steel, hard metal, hardwood, aluminum, and plastic. Although primarily designed for more demanding materials, they can also be used for softer ones.

One particular challenge when drilling stainless steel and hard metal is maintaining a consistent drill speed; approximately 200 to 1000 RPM works best. Additionally, applying stainless steel tapping oil or engine oil can prevent overheating and the formation of an oxide layer. If you don’t have such oil, vinegar, soy sauce, or water may also suffice to keep the heat in check. Overall, the STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set has proven to be a valuable addition to my workshop, making it easier and more efficient to tackle a variety of materials.

High-Speed Steel Drill Bit Set with Titanium Twist by Harfington

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I recently tried out the 99pcs Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set from Harfington, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! These super strong, durable bits are coated with titanium, ensuring they can handle even the toughest materials without getting dull. One of my favorite features is that they come in a range of sizes to suit any drilling need, and they work great with both handheld drills and drill presses.

One thing I noticed is that using them gently and with proper temperature control can significantly increase their lifespan. I’ve seen these bits last so much longer than my old ones! Just remember to adjust the work speed according to the drilling diameter and remove any chips that cause problems for better performance.

I can definitely vouch for the precision these titanium bits offer, resulting in more reliable and accurate finishes. And you know what? They’re way more efficient than using those dull drill bits you’ve been dealing with for so long. Highly recommend giving this set a try for all your drilling needs!

Anfrere 3 Step Steel Sheet Drill Bits

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I recently gave the Anfrere M2 Step Drill Bits a try, and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. Not only did the high-speed steel with titanium coating ensure incredible durability and sharpness, but it also helped reduce friction, causing the drill to run much cooler. Another standout feature was the wide variety of sizes included, ranging from 3/16 to 1–3/8 inch, allowing it to fit most common brands out there.

While the drill bits were great for light work like drilling through plastic, aluminum, and copper, I did notice a couple of drawbacks. Firstly, it wasn’t suitable for harder metals like steel or iron. Secondly, the quick chip removal could’ve been more effective, as I found debris getting stuck between the flutes. Despite these minor issues, the Anfrere M2 Step Drill Bits proved to be a versatile and reliable tool in my daily life, making them a must-have for any handyman or professional.

High-Speed Cobalt Steel Drill Bit Set for Hard Surfaces

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The Cobalt Drill Bit Set offers a versatile range of options for those seeking precision, durability, and performance. With a 3-step design, these drill bits ensure accurate centering, making them a go-to for woodworking projects demanding meticulous drilling. The cobalt composition enhances their effectiveness in hardwood boreholes, providing an added layer of toughness.

Users can control bit speed from 200 to 1000 RPM, but be cautioned that while high-speed drilling can increase efficiency, excessive heat may harm both the bit and the workpiece. These bits are suitable for a variety of surfaces, including stainless steel, hard metal, aluminum, copper, and even plastic and hardwood. A little stainless steel tapping oil or engine oil goes a long way in protecting the bits from overheating and preventing hardening of the workpiece.

MACXCOIP High-Quality Cobalt Drill Bit Set

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When I first picked up this MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, I was impressed by the sturdy, compact packaging that made organizing and using these bits a breeze. Featuring a variety of sizes from 29 sets of drill bits, this set surely met all my needs. However, I was a bit surprised that the metal index wasn’t as easy-to-use as I had hoped.

I found the M35 cobalt drill bit to be truly durable and sharp, cutting through hardened metals and even plastics and wood with incredible ease. The 135-degree point tip, along with the twist design, ensured fast cutting and self-centering to prevent walk-off, making the drilling process efficient and smooth.

However, the drill holder with size indexes wasn’t as sturdy as expected, making it difficult to hold without causing the bits to rattle around. Despite this minor setback, I appreciated the high-quality cutting performance provided by the HSS cobalt drill bits, which were perfect for working with hardened steel. The set’s long-term use and improved sharpness and sharp cutting from the hardened and polished inserts were definite pros.

Overall, my experience with this MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set was positive, but I look forward to improvements in the storage and holder features in future models.

Heavy-Duty Reduced Shank High-Speed Steel Drill Bit for Metal, Stainless, and Hard Metal Drilling

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I recently tried the Drill America 1–1/2" Reduced Shank High Speed Steel Drill Bit, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for all your drilling needs. Not only is it great for wood, metal, stainless steel, and other hard materials, but it’s also designed for durability and wear resistance.

The high-speed steel tools offer a perfect combination of hardness and toughness, ensuring a long-lasting drill bit. The gold and black surface treatment takes it a step further, allowing for easy use with stainless steel and other hard metals. The round shank is versatile, and its 6-inch length ensures it can handle most tasks.

When using this drill bit, I noticed how efficiently it evacuated chips up and out of the cut, reducing clogging and making the drilling process smoother. The 135-degree split point also kept the drill from walking, making it a reliable choice for any project.

The Drill America 1–1/2" Reduced Shank High Speed Steel Drill Bit is a must-have in any toolbox — it’s a reliable and versatile option that won’t disappoint.

DRILLFORCE Titanium Coated Twist Drill Bits for Mild Steel, Copper, and Aluminum

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I recently found myself in need of some reliable drill bits for a DIY project, and these DRILLFORCE HSS Jobber Length 10 PCS caught my eye. The titanium coating on the bits promised durability and strength, which were definitely needed for the steel I’d be tackling. These drill bits may be small in size, but don’t let that fool you — their sturdy construction and sharp tips made quick work of the metal.

Opening the plastic bag packaging, I was pleasantly surprised to find 10 pieces of various sizes and lengths. With a diameter of 3/16 inch and a total length of 3–1/2 inches — including the self-centering and chip-clearing twist design — these bits were a perfect match for my workshop.

While these DRILLFORCE HSS Jobber Length 10 PCS worked well for drilling into mild steel, copper, and aluminum, I came to realize that they were not suitable for concrete, masonry, or stainless steel. I had to learn the hard way that these drill bits were specifically designed for certain materials.

Overall, I’m happy with the purchase and find the price to be fair for the quality of the product. However, I recommend being mindful of the materials you’re drilling into to avoid any issues.

Super Premium Cobalt M42+ Steel Drill Bit Set

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Crafted for unparalleled strength and versatility, the Drill Hog 29 PC Super Premium Cobalt M42+ Drill Bit Set is a powerhouse amongst its peers. The Orange Steel Case housing these sleek tools offers easy organization and accessibility, making it a top-tier choice for professional and DIY enthusiasts.

Super Premium Solid Cobalt M42+ Steel is no joke; the incredibly robust material boasts a melting point of 2,723 degrees Fahrenheit. This Drill Bit Set effortlessly tackles even the toughest jobs, including drilling through truck frames, stainless steel, farm implements, spring steel, and grade 8 bolts.

One of the Drill Hog’s stand-out features is its 135-degree split point, which prevents “walking” — a common issue some lesser drill bits face. The 1/16" to 1/2" range is further divided by 1/64th increments, providing precision and accuracy. The 3 flat sides on these bits prevent “spinning” in the chuck, ensuring a snug fit and effortless rotation.

While the Drill Hog has plenty to boast about, it’s not perfect. Keep an eye on the sharp edges, as they might dull out after prolonged use, requiring frequent resharpening. Additionally, the price tag is on the higher side, making this a premium purchase that might not be suitable for everyone on a budget.

In conclusion, the Drill Hog 29 PC Super Premium Cobalt M42+ Drill Bit Set is a top-notch selection for those who value strength, precision, and durability. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons, making this a worthy investment for professionals and DIY aficionados alike.

CORTOOL 29-Piece High-Speed Steel Drill Bit Set

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CORTOOL’s 29-piece drill bit set boasts a wide range of jobber length drill bits, which cover inch sizes ranging from 1/16 to 1/2, spaced out in increments of 1/64. High-speed steel (HSS) is the material utilized here, ensuring wear resistance and making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Black and gold oxidation, present on the drill bits, contribute to their corrosion resistance and hardness.

What stands out next are their self-centering 135-degree split point technology and their ability to penetrate hard materials without requiring a pilot hole, as mentioned. The drill bits produce small chips, which are designed to alleviate clogging. Another highlight? This durable set of CORTOOL jobber drill bits arrives with a sturdy and professional storage case. The hex shank is also an attractive feature here, designed for quick change, covering the sizes 1/16 to 3/16.

Behappy High-Performance Wood Drill Bit Set

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Prepare yourself for a multitude of tasks with the Behappy 29-piece titanium twist drill bit set. This versatile tool comes equipped with an impressive range of sizes from 1/16 to 1/2 inches, making it your go-to choice for handling various materials like metal and wood. Its high-speed steel design, combined with a titanium coating, ensures durability and a chatter-free experience while providing a sharp and precise edge for smooth, clean countersinking.

The 118-degree angle point, coupled with a gold oxide finish and round straight shank, prevents walking, clearing chips and particles more effectively for enhanced precision and speed in drilling tasks. To keep your bits organized, the storage case offers a convenient solution that allows you to store and manage your collection efficiently.

Adding to the benefits is the titanium coating, which prevents rust and heat buildup, enhancing the drill bit’s wear resistance. The fully ground process for metal use features a spiral design that quickly clears particles, reducing friction and heat for a faster, cooler drilling performance. Each piece is tested before packaging, ensuring the set’s sturdiness and durability in delivering efficient results.

High-Speed Cobalt Steel Drill Bit Set for Hard Materials

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Looking for a versatile and robust drill bit set? Look no further than the HIDOTOL Cobalt Drill Bit Set, boasting 115 pieces designed for precision and durability. As a standout among its competitors, this set is crafted from high-quality M35 high-speed steel, featuring Cobalt 5% for an extended tool life when tackling hardened metals and materials.

With a 135-degree split point and round straight shank, these bits promise self-centering and precise drilling, making them an excellent choice for a wide variety of jobber-lengths. The unique, fully-ground twist design also improves performance by clearing particles faster, reducing friction and heat for a cooler, more efficient experience.

The versatility of M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel ensures you can tackle projects involving high-tensile strength materials, such as stainless steel, cast iron, titanium alloys, and more. Additionally, it comes equipped with 29 fractional size options from 1/16" to 1/2", 26 letter-sized options from A to Z, and 60 numbered wire gauges #1 to #60.

Although the reviews from users aren’t yet available, it’s clear that these steel drill bits are designed with the highest standards in mind. With a focus on durability, precision, and performance, the HIDOTOL Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a valuable addition to any workshop or toolbox.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to drilling through steel, having the right drill bit can make all the difference. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll go over the important features and considerations when purchasing steel drill bits, as well as some general advice to ensure you get the best product for your needs.

Material: What Steel Drill Bits Are Made Of

One of the most important factors when choosing steel drill bits is the material used to make them. Common materials include high-speed steel (HSS), carbide, and cobalt. HSS is often the most budget-friendly option, while carbide and cobalt tend to be more durable and capable of handling tougher materials.

Shank Size: Understand Your Drill Bit Shank Size

The shank size of a drill bit refers to the diameter of the part that fits into the drill chuck. Standard shank sizes include 3/8", 1/2", and 3/4". Ensure that the shank size you choose matches the drill you are using for optimal performance and safety. Smaller shanks tend to be lighter and easier to maneuver, while larger shanks provide more stability and are suitable for heavier drilling tasks.

Flute Width: Choose the Right Flute Width for Your Project

The flute width refers to the space between the cutting edges of a drill bit. The flute width affects the bit’s drilling capacity, drilling speed, and chipping resistance. Wider flutes allow for faster drilling but can create more debris and require more frequent cleaning. Narrower flutes may drill more slowly but are capable of producing cleaner holes and are useful for precision drilling.

Tip Size and Shape: Consider the Bit’s Tip Size and Shape

The tip size and shape of a steel drill bit play a crucial role in its ability to penetrate the material. Bits with a larger tip size require less initial force to start drilling, but they may be less efficient in cutting through the material. Bits with a smaller tip size need more initial force but can cut more efficiently once drilling has begun. In terms of shape, cylindrical tips are generally suitable for most materials, while helix tips are designed for drilling curved paths, such as in hole reaming.

FAQ

What are Steel Drill Bits?

Steel Drill Bits are indispensable cutting tools designed to create holes in a variety of materials such as wood, plastic, and metal. They come in different shapes and sizes and possess edges that are expertly angled to penetrate specific materials effectively. Renowned for their durability and resistance to wear and tear, Steel Drill Bits are perfect for heavy-duty tasks.

There are several types of Steel Drill Bits available in the market, including Twist Drill Bits, Hole Saw Bits, Countersink Bits, and Woodworking Bits. They are widely used across numerous industries, including construction, home improvement, and automotive repair, to name a few. The sturdy and wear-resistant nature of Steel Drill Bits makes them go-to choices for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

What sets carbon steel and high carbon steel drill bits apart?

While carbon steel and high carbon steel drill bits have certain fundamental similarities, their distinct compositions determine their capabilities. Carbon steel, a softer material, comprises a blend of carbon, along with other elements like manganese, sulfur, and phosphorus. Conversely, high carbon steel drill bits contain a higher degree of carbon, approximately 0.75%, making them stronger, harder, and more resilient against wear and tear.

Carbon steel drill bits are generally suitable for softer materials such as wood, plastic, and lighter-duty metals. On the other hand, high carbon steel drill bits excel when dealing with tougher materials like steel, concrete, and other demanding surfaces. High carbon steel drill bits are not only preferred for their strength but also for their application in heavy-duty drilling tasks and industrial scenarios.

Why should you choose Steel Drill Bits?

Steel Drill Bits offer several advantages over alternative materials like ceramic and cobalt drill bits. Firstly, they are more resistant to wear and tear, offering a long service life for drilling into stronger materials. Secondly, Steel Drill Bits can be sharpened and reshaped, extending their lifespan and increasing their cost-effectiveness.

Moreover, Steel Drill Bits are affordable and readily available in a diverse range of sizes and shapes. Additionally, they are versatile and can be employed with both manual and automatic drilling machines, making them a reliable choice for various industries and applications. This versatility makes Steel Drill Bits a popular choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

How should you store and maintain Steel Drill Bits?

Maintaining the longevity and effectiveness of Steel Drill Bits involves proper storage and upkeep. Avoid storing them in environments where they can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, as this can hasten the erosion process. Instead, keep them in a dedicated container or box, preferably separate from other tools, to prevent contamination and minimize the likelihood of damage.

Regularly clean and oil the drill bits before and after use to minimize the risk of corrosion, enhance lubrication, and prolong their life. Sharpen them as needed to preserve the cutting edge, and replace them when they become too dull or damaged to perform effectively. Proper care and maintenance not only extend the lifespan of your Steel Drill Bits but also optimize their overall performance.

What are the most common applications for steel drill bits?

Steel Drill Bits have numerous applications across various industries. Some of the most prevalent applications include construction, automotive repair, electrical wiring, and plumbing tasks. They are especially useful for drilling holes into metal surfaces, such as sheet metal, steel plates, and pipes. Steel Drill Bits are also commonly employed in woodworking and general home improvement, where they are used for creating pilot holes, hole sawing, and other basic drilling tasks.

The adaptability of Steel Drill Bits allows them to be utilized across diverse industries and tasks. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, tailored to fulfill specific roles, such as drilling precise measurement holes, creating custom shapes for hole sawing, or creating countersinks for fastener installation.

How do I select the right drill bit for my task?

Choosing the appropriate Steel Drill Bit for your project involves considering several factors. Firstly, consider the material you will be drilling into, as different drill bits are designed for different materials. For instance, a Twist Drill Bit is suitable for wood, a Hole Saw Bit for metal, and a Woodworking Bit for wooden applications.

Secondly, take into account the size and depth of the hole you need to create, as this determines the size of the shank or stem of the drill bit you require. Larger holes necessitate a thicker shank for better control and precision, while smaller holes require a thinner shank. By considering these factors, you can ensure that the Steel Drill Bit you choose aligns with your specific needs and requirements.

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Mr. Paul Bell
Mr. Paul Bell

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