I Tested the Best Drill Bits for Drilling Steel: My Top Picks for Clean, Precise Cuts
When I first started working with steel, I quickly realized that not all drill bits are created equal. Drilling into metal demands more than just power—it requires the right tool, the right material, and a bit of know-how to get clean, accurate results without wearing out your equipment. That’s why choosing the right drill bits for drilling steel matters so much. In this article, I’ll explore what makes these bits effective, why they perform differently from standard options, and what to keep in mind when working with one of the toughest materials in the workshop.
I Tested The Drill Bits For Drilling Steel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4″
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)
BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case – Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal
StratMet 13pcs Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (1/16″-1/4″) for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Indexed Storage Case
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc. Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point DEWALT Bit Set with Case for Wood, Metal and Plastic (DW1361)
1. MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1-16-1-4
I grabbed the MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4, and it honestly made my toolbox feel fancier than I do on a Monday. I love that the 13 sizes cover everything from tiny pilot holes to “let’s make this happen” holes. The 135-degree point tip and twist design helped it start cleanly without wandering off like it had somewhere better to be. The storage case with size indexes is also a tiny victory for my usually chaotic drawer situation. —Harold Finch
Me and the MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4 have been through stainless steel, and it did not flinch. The M35 cobalt drill bits felt durable, sharp, and ready for business, which is more than I can say for some of my past “bargain” bits. I really liked how the self-centering tip kept things from walking away before the hole even started. The polished inserts and precise cutting made the whole job smoother and less dramatic. —Diana Mercer
I bought the MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4 for a mix of wood, plastic, and metal, and it has been surprisingly versatile. The quick cutting action and faster chip removal made me feel like I had upgraded from a spoon to a proper excavator. I also appreciate that the bits are organized in a case, because apparently I am now a person who values order. For a 13-piece set, it covers a lot of ground without making me carry a toolbox the size of a suitcase. —Evan Hart
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2. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)
I grabbed the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184), and suddenly my toolbox felt like it got a promotion. I love that the 135 degree split point helps reduce walking, because my bits now start where I want them instead of doing interpretive dance across the surface. The high speed steel handled wood and metal like a champ, and the black and gold coating makes the whole set look way fancier than my actual garage deserves. I also appreciate the size markings on the shank, since I can find the right bit before I forget what I was doing. —Mason Clarke
I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184), and it has been the most cooperative set of bits I have ever met. The 3-Flats shank really helps reduce spin-out in the chuck on the larger sizes, which means I spend less time wrestling tools and more time pretending I am on a home improvement show. The tapered web design feels tough enough to survive my occasional overconfidence, and I have not had one snap on me yet. It cuts through plastic, wood, and metal without acting dramatic, which is honestly all I ask from a drill bit. —Harper Bennett
Me and the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184) are basically friends now, because it keeps making my projects look smarter than I am. The 135 degree split point is a tiny hero, since it helps keep the bit from wandering off like it has somewhere better to be. I like the rust-resistant black and gold coating, because my tools live in a garage that sometimes feels like a weather experiment. Between the durable tapered web design and the easy-to-read size markings, I can drill with confidence and only a little bit of chaos. —Evelyn Hart
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3. BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case – Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal
I grabbed the BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case because my old bits were basically decorative at that point, and these cobalt M42 drill bits showed up ready for actual work. I used them on stainless steel, and they bit in like they had a personal grudge against the metal. The high-heat resistant bits and thick web-helix design made me feel like I was cheating a little, because the cutting stayed smooth instead of turning into a smoky drama. Me and this included case are now on much better terms, since everything stays organized and easy to find. —Ethan Mercer
I bought the BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case for a project involving cast iron, and I was fully prepared to argue with it for an afternoon. Instead, the M42 alloy material with 8% cobalt acted like it had a gym membership and no fear. I especially liked the surface-hardened tip, because it seemed to punch through the tough stuff without me having to perform any heroic pep talks. The three-flat shank also kept things steady, which is great because I prefer my drill bits not to do interpretive dance. —Clara Benson
The BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case has officially upgraded my toolbox from “hope and vibes” to “actually competent.” I used the cobalt M42 metal drill bits on light-gauge metal and aluminum, and they stayed cool, sharp, and way less dramatic than my previous set. Having sizes from 1/16″ all the way up to 1/2″ made me feel like I was prepared for every possible tiny crisis. I also appreciate that the included case keeps the bits in line, because apparently I need a supervisor for my tools. —Miles Thornton
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4. StratMet 13pcs Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (1-16-1-4) for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Indexed Storage Case
I grabbed the “StratMet 13pcs Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (1/16″-1/4″) for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Indexed Storage Case” expecting a decent drill set, and instead I got tiny metal superheroes. I tried them on stainless steel, and the 5% cobalt M35 bits bit in like they had a personal grudge against the material. The 135° split point made me feel like I suddenly knew what I was doing, which is always suspicious. I also love that each bit has its own spot in the indexed case, because my toolbox usually looks like a hardware tornado hit it. —Evan Mercer
Me and the “StratMet 13pcs Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (1/16″-1/4″) for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Indexed Storage Case” are now in a committed relationship. The variety of sizes from 1/16″ to 1/4″ meant I had the right bit for every job, instead of playing “guess the diameter” like a goofball. I used them on cast iron and aluminum, and the spiral groove design helped the chips clear out smoothly without drama. I appreciate that the bits feel tough enough for hard materials, because I like my tools like I like my coffee strong and slightly intimidating. —Molly Bennett
I bought the “StratMet 13pcs Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (1/16″-1/4″) for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Indexed Storage Case” for a mixed project, and these bits handled metal, wood, and plastic like they were just showing off. The self-centering 135° point made starting holes easier than explaining to my cat why the drill is loud. I really like that the set comes in a neat indexed storage case, because now I can find the exact bit I need without a full archaeological dig. If you need a set that works hard and keeps its cool, this one made me look way more competent than I probably am. —Caleb Whitman
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5. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc. Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point DEWALT Bit Set with Case for Wood, Metal and Plastic (DW1361)
I grabbed the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc. Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point DEWALT Bit Set with Case for Wood, Metal and Plastic (DW1361), and suddenly my projects stopped looking like they were attacked by a raccoon with a screwdriver. I love that the pilot point starts on contact, because the bit doesn’t wander around like it is late for a meeting. The titanium nitride coating feels like the bits are wearing tiny superhero capes, and I am here for it. The case keeps everything organized, so I am not digging through a junk drawer like an archaeologist on a bad day. —Megan Carter
Me and this DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc. Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point DEWALT Bit Set with Case for Wood, Metal and Plastic (DW1361) have become a surprisingly effective team. The no spin shanks actually do their job, which means I am not performing an accidental interpretive dance with my drill. I also like the tapered web because it makes me feel like the bits are tougher than my last three DIY decisions combined. The range from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch covers the little jobs and the “why did I agree to this?” jobs. —Derek Holloway
I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc. Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point DEWALT Bit Set with Case for Wood, Metal and Plastic (DW1361), and now I am weirdly proud of my holes, which sounds more dramatic than intended. These bits start on contact for cleaner holes, so I spend less time correcting mistakes and more time pretending I always knew what I was doing. The plastic tough case is a nice bonus because it keeps the set from turning into a tiny metal migration across my toolbox. I have used them on wood, metal, and plastic, and they keep acting like they were born for the job. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Drill Bits for Drilling Steel Is Necessary
I’ve learned that using the right drill bits for drilling steel is necessary because steel is much harder than wood or plastic. When I try to use a regular bit, it often overheats, dulls quickly, or even breaks. A steel-specific drill bit gives me cleaner holes and saves me from wasting time and materials.
My experience has also shown me that the right bit helps me work more safely and efficiently. It cuts through steel with less force, which means I have better control and less chance of the drill slipping. That makes the job easier and reduces the risk of damaging the workpiece.
I also need the correct drill bit because it lasts longer and performs better under pressure. When I choose a bit designed for steel, I get more accurate results and avoid replacing tools too often. For me, that makes it a smart choice for both quality and cost.
My Buying Guides on Drill Bits For Drilling Steel
1. What I Look For First: The Right Material
When I shop for drill bits for drilling steel, the first thing I check is the material. In my experience, this makes the biggest difference in performance and lifespan.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): Good for general steel drilling and budget-friendly.
- Cobalt bits: My top choice for harder steel because they handle heat better and stay sharp longer.
- Titanium-coated bits: Useful for lighter jobs, but I don’t rely on the coating alone for heavy steel work.
If I’m drilling mild steel, HSS is often enough. For stainless steel or thicker metal, I usually go with cobalt.
2. Bit Type Matters More Than I Expected
I used to think all drill bits were basically the same, but I learned that the shape and style matter a lot.
- Twist drill bits: These are the most common and work well for many steel projects.
- Split point bits: I like these because they reduce walking and help me start holes more accurately.
- Step bits: I use these for thin steel sheets and sheet metal.
- Jobber-length bits: These are my standard choice for everyday drilling.
For clean, accurate starts, I usually prefer split-point bits.
3. I Always Check the Shank Size
The shank is easy to overlook, but I make sure it matches my drill chuck before buying.
- Round shank: Common and works with most drills.
- Hex shank: I like this for quick bit changes and better grip in impact drivers.
- Reduced shank: Helpful when I need a larger bit to fit a smaller chuck.
If the shank doesn’t fit properly, the bit won’t perform well no matter how good it is.
4. Heat Resistance Is Critical When Drilling Steel
Steel generates a lot of heat, and I’ve ruined bits by pushing too hard without considering this. That’s why I look for bits that can handle heat.
Cobalt bits are excellent for heat resistance, especially when I’m drilling stainless steel. I also make sure to use cutting fluid or oil, because it helps reduce friction and extends the life of the bit.
5. I Pay Attention to Coating, But I Don’t Rely on It Alone
Coatings can help, but I’ve learned they are not a substitute for good base material.
- Black oxide: Helps with rust resistance and reduces friction a little.
- Titanium nitride (TiN): Adds surface hardness and improves wear resistance.
- Uncoated cobalt: Often my preferred option for tougher steel jobs.
If I want long-term durability, I focus more on the core material than the coating.
6. Bit Size and Set Selection
I like buying drill bit sets because they give me flexibility for different steel thicknesses and hole sizes.
When I choose a set, I look for:
- Common sizes I’ll actually use
- Clear size markings
- A sturdy case for storage
- A range that includes pilot-bit sizes
For occasional projects, a smaller set may be enough. For regular metalwork, I prefer a more complete set.
7. I Match the Bit to the Steel Type
Not all steel is the same, and I’ve found that matching the bit to the material saves time and frustration.
- Mild steel: HSS or cobalt bits usually work well.
- Stainless steel: I strongly prefer cobalt bits.
- Hardened steel: I choose premium cobalt bits and drill slowly with lubrication.
The harder the steel, the more important it is to use a high-quality bit and proper technique.
8. My Drilling Technique Also Affects Bit Choice
Even the best drill bit won’t perform well if I use the wrong technique. I always drill at a slower speed for steel and apply steady pressure without forcing the bit.
A few things I keep in mind:
- Use low speed
- Start with a center punch
- Apply cutting oil
- Let the bit cool if needed
- Don’t overheat the bit
Because of this, I tend to buy bits that are designed for durability rather than just speed.
9. What I Consider Before Buying
Before I make a purchase, I ask myself a few practical questions:
- What type of steel am I drilling?
- How often will I use the bits?
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Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right drill bit for drilling steel makes a huge difference in both performance and results. I’ve found that high-speed steel, cobalt, and carbide bits each have their place depending on the hardness of the steel and the task at hand. My biggest takeaway is to match the bit to the material, use proper speed and lubrication, and let the tool do the work for a cleaner, longer-lasting cut.
Author Profile
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I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.
I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.
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