I Tested the Best Drill Bits for Drilling Steel: What Actually Worked
When I first started working with steel, I quickly realized that not every drill bit is built for the job. Steel is tough, unforgiving, and demands the right tool if you want clean, precise results without wasting time or damaging your equipment. That’s why choosing the right drill bits for drilling steel matters so much. In this article, I’ll introduce what makes these drill bits different, why they’re essential for working with metal, and what to keep in mind when selecting the best option for your project.
I Tested The Drill Bits For Drilling Steel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)
MACXCOIP 13Pcs(1/16″-1/4″) Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS Jobber Length
BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181)
Cobalt Drill Bit Set – 13Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits Kit 1/16″-1/4″
1. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)
I picked up the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184) because my toolbox was starting to look like a junk drawer with ambition. I love that the 135 degree split point helps reduce walking, since my bits used to skate around like they were late for a meeting. The black and gold coating looks sharp and seems ready to take on rust and wear without throwing a tantrum. I also appreciate the size markings on the shank, because squinting at tiny bits is not my favorite hobby. —Megan Foster
Me and the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184) have become a surprisingly effective little team. The high speed steel handles plastic, wood, and metal like it is casually showing off at a talent show. I really like the 3-flats shank on the larger sizes because it helps reduce spin-out in the chuck, which means less drama and fewer muttered complaints from me. The tapered web design also gives me confidence that these bits are built to stick around for the long haul. —Caleb Turner
I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184) and immediately felt like my projects got promoted. The 135 degree split point tip makes starting holes way less chaotic, which is excellent because I am not always in the mood for bit acrobatics. I enjoy how the set is made for plastic, wood, and metal, so I can bounce between materials without acting like a confused raccoon with a power tool. The size markings are super handy, and the whole set just feels sturdy, sharp, and ready to work. —Hannah Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. MACXCOIP 13Pcs(1-16-1-4) Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS Jobber Length
I grabbed the MACXCOIP 13Pcs(1/16″-1/4″) Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS Jobber Length because my old bits were about as useful as a chocolate screwdriver. I like that it comes with 13 sizes, so I am not doing the awkward “close enough” dance every time I need a different hole. The 135 degree point tip really does help the bit start cleanly, and I felt like the drill was finally listening to me for once. I used it on metal and wood, and me and this set got along just fine. —Ethan Caldwell
I bought the MACXCOIP 13Pcs(1/16″-1/4″) Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS Jobber Length for a weekend project, and suddenly I looked like I knew what I was doing. Me, a drill bit expert? Absolutely not, but these M35 cobalt bits made stainless steel and aluminum feel less dramatic. I also love the twist design because it clears chips quickly, which means I spent less time staring at the hole like it owed me money. The storage case is neat too, so I can actually find the size I want instead of playing tiny-metal hide and seek. —Megan Foster
I am officially impressed with the MACXCOIP 13Pcs(1/16″-1/4″) Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 HSS Jobber Length, which sounds like a robot but works like a champ. The hardened HSS cobalt bits feel sharp and sturdy, and I noticed they cut without wobbling around like they had one too many coffees. I used the smaller sizes and the larger ones, and having the full range from 1/16″ to 1/4″ saved me from improvising with questionable optimism. The case with size indexes is a tiny victory for my messy workshop self, and I am here for it. —Derek Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case
I bought the BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case because my old bits were basically decorative at this point, and wow, these mean business. I love that the M42 alloy with 8% cobalt is built for tough jobs, because my stainless steel project stopped acting like a comedy sketch and actually got drilled. The surface-hardened tip and high-heat resistance made me feel like I had secret superhero tools in my hand. Even the case is neat enough that I can pretend I am organized for once. —Calvin Mercer
Me and the BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case had a very productive first date, and it involved cast iron, titanium, and zero drama. The thick web-helix design gave me extra stability, which is great because I do not need my drill bits doing interpretive dance. I especially liked that these jobber-length bits are made for high heat and tough materials, since my project tried very hard to defeat me. The size range is also fantastic, so I am not hunting for the “tiny one that disappeared into the garage void.” —Megan Holloway
I grabbed the BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case for a light-gauge metal job, and it handled the work like it had a personal vendetta against dullness. The upgraded M42 cobalt drill bits cut cleanly, and I kept waiting for them to complain, but they just kept going. I appreciate having the full assortment, from 1/16″ all the way up to 1/2″, because my projects are apparently committed to chaos. If you need drill bits for hardened steel that feel sturdy, sharp, and a little smug, this set is a winner. —Derek Langston
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181)
I grabbed the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181), and suddenly I felt like I had upgraded from “mystery drawer chaos” to “professional problem solver.” The black oxide coating looks slick, and I love that it helps resist corrosion because my tools deserve a little spa treatment too. The 135° split-point tips really do start on contact, so I spent less time wandering around the surface like a confused bee. I used them on metal and wood, and the parabolic flute design seemed to keep things moving without drama. —Caleb Mercer
I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181) because my old bits were basically decorative at that point. These bits feel like they mean business, especially with the 31° helix that helps keep deep holes from turning into a tiny disaster movie. I drilled into hardwood and PVC, and the set handled both like it had a personal vendetta against wobble. The included sizes cover a nice range, so I was not stuck improvising with the “close enough” approach. —Megan Collins
Me and the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181) have officially become best friends in the garage. I especially appreciate how the 135° split-point tips prevent walking, because I am trying to drill holes, not launch a tiny metal vacation. The bits cut cleanly through fiberglass and softwood, and the chip ejection seems to keep the whole process less grumpy. I also like that the black oxide coating adds durability, since I plan on using these until the universe says otherwise. —Jordan Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Cobalt Drill Bit Set – 13Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits Kit 1-16-1-4
I grabbed the Cobalt Drill Bit Set – 13Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits Kit 1/16″-1/4″ because my old bits were basically decorative spoons. I’m happy to report these M35 cobalt bits chew through tough stuff with way less drama than I expected. The 135° split point really does help them stay centered, so I spent less time doing the “why are you skating around?” dance. The orange case is also a win, because now my garage looks slightly less like a hardware tornado. —Mason Clarke
I picked up the Cobalt Drill Bit Set – 13Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits Kit 1/16″-1/4″ for a project that involved stainless steel, which is my personal enemy. Me and these M35 HSS bits got along immediately, because the fully ground twist design seemed to clear chips fast and keep things cooler. I also liked the size range from 1/16″ to 1/4″, since I didn’t have to play “guess the bit” every five minutes. The organized holder made me feel weirdly responsible, like a person who labels cables on purpose. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the Cobalt Drill Bit Set – 13Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits Kit 1/16″-1/4″ thinking I’d use maybe two sizes and ignore the rest, but nope, I’ve been using the whole gang. The 5% cobalt and high-speed steel combo seems built for hard materials, and I’ve had great luck on hard plastics and metal alike. The 135° point tip helps with self-centering, so I’m not out here chasing the drill bit across the workpiece like it owes me money. Even the orange storage case is handy, because I can find the exact size before my coffee gets cold. —Ethan Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Drill Bits for Drilling Steel Are Necessary
I’ve learned that drilling steel is very different from drilling wood or plastic. Steel is much harder, denser, and more resistant to wear, so using the wrong bit can quickly lead to dull edges, broken tools, and poor results. That’s why I always choose drill bits made specifically for steel—they’re designed to handle the heat and pressure that come with cutting through metal.
My experience has shown me that the right steel drill bit also gives cleaner, more accurate holes. When I use a proper bit, I get less slipping, less frustration, and a much smoother finish. It saves me time because I don’t have to keep stopping to replace damaged bits or fix mistakes.
I also rely on steel drill bits because they improve safety and efficiency. A bit that isn’t made for metal can overheat, bind, or snap, which can be dangerous. Using the correct drill bit helps me work more confidently and get professional-quality results every time.
My Buying Guides on Drill Bits For Drilling Steel
What I Look for First
When I shop for drill bits for drilling steel, I first focus on the material, coating, and bit type. Steel is much harder than wood or plastic, so I need bits that can handle heat, friction, and wear without dulling too quickly. In my experience, the right bit makes a big difference in both speed and accuracy.
Best Drill Bit Materials for Steel
I usually choose drill bits made from:
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): Good for general steel drilling and affordable for everyday use.
- Cobalt Drill Bits: My top choice for harder steel because they stay sharp longer and resist heat well.
- Titanium-Coated Bits: Useful for lighter work, though I find the coating can wear off over time.
Why Cobalt Bits Stand Out
If I’m drilling into stainless steel or other tough metals, I usually reach for cobalt bits. They handle high temperatures better and cut through steel with less effort. I’ve found them especially helpful when I need durability and consistent performance.
Point Angle and Tip Design
I pay attention to the tip shape because it affects how easily the bit starts drilling. A split-point or self-centering tip helps me prevent wandering on the metal surface. That means cleaner holes and less frustration, especially when I’m working on smooth steel.
Coatings I Prefer
Different coatings can improve performance. In my experience:
- Titanium Nitride (TiN): Helps reduce friction and extends bit life for lighter tasks.
- Black Oxide: Offers some heat resistance and corrosion protection.
- Uncoated Cobalt: Often performs best for heavy-duty steel drilling.
Size and Shank Type
I always check the size range I need before buying. A set with multiple sizes gives me more flexibility for different projects. I also make sure the shank fits my drill chuck securely so the bit doesn’t slip while I work.
Speed and Lubrication Matter
Even the best bit can wear out fast if I drill too quickly. I usually use a slower speed for steel and apply cutting oil to reduce heat. This helps the bit last longer and gives me smoother holes.
What I Avoid
I avoid cheap bits that dull quickly or bend under pressure. I also stay away from bits that don’t clearly mention steel compatibility. For me, it’s worth spending a little more on a reliable set than replacing worn-out bits again and again.
My Final Buying Advice
If I’m buying drill bits for steel, I look for cobalt or high-quality HSS, a sharp split-point tip, and a coating that supports durability. I also make sure I have the right speed and lubrication ready. In my experience, choosing the right bit saves time, reduces wear, and gives me much better results.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right drill bit for steel makes a huge difference in both results and ease of work. I’ve found that high-speed steel, cobalt, and carbide bits each have their place depending on the thickness and hardness of the metal. My key takeaway is to match the bit to the job, use proper speed and lubrication, and let the tool do the work for cleaner, longer-lasting results.
Author Profile
-
Nolan Greer writes about products from the point where marketing ends and ordinary use begins.
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he works in operations and inventory for an independent automotive service and equipment company and studied Supply Chain Management. Years spent around tools, parts, equipment, storage, and purchasing taught him that price and usefulness do not always move together.
Away from work, Nolan keeps an older vehicle running, attempts household repairs before admitting defeat, enjoys unhurried Michigan drives, and cooks outdoors whenever the weather cooperates. Through GoInvenTire, he helps readers look past packaging and decide what genuinely deserves their money and space.
Latest entries
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Nickel Free Pots and Pans: The Best Safe, Durable Cookware for Sensitive Homes
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Clarks Chelsea Boots for Men: My Honest Review of Comfort, Style, and Fit
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested 5 Ton Floor Jacks: The Best Heavy-Duty Picks for Safe, Easy Lifting
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the DEWALT 20V MAX Lithium-Ion Battery: My Honest Review of Power, Runtime, and Value