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10 Best Metal Drill Bits 2026 in the United States

Milwaukee 48-89-9221 3 Piece Step Drill Bit Set

Material: High Speed Steel
Coating: Black Oxide
Size: 2 x 8 x 9 inches
Flute Design: Spiral
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#1

Winner

BOSCH CO21B 21-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, Light-Gauge Metal, Aluminum

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,431
Material
Size
Point Angle

Most important from
6830 reviews

Material
The M42 cobalt alloy significantly reduces heat buildup and acts like a lubricant, helping the bits stay sharp longer and cut smoothly.
Size
The three-flat shank on larger bits ensures a secure grip in the drill chuck, preventing slippage during use.
Point Angle
The 135-degree split point design eliminates slipping and the need for a center punch, making starting holes easier.

The BOSCH CO21B 21-Piece Drill Bit Set offers a solid choice for anyone needing reliable metal drilling tools. Made from Cobalt M42 alloy, these bits are designed for tough jobs involving stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and other metals. The inclusion of 8% cobalt makes them much more durable and heat-resistant than standard bits, meaning they won’t wear out quickly under heavy use or high temperatures. This feature is especially useful if you frequently drill hard metals.

The 135-degree split point design helps the bits start drilling easily without slipping, eliminating the need for extra tools like a center punch. The thick web-helix (spiral) flute design adds stability and helps remove metal shavings efficiently, making drilling smoother. Another helpful feature is the three-flat shank on larger bits, which improves grip in the drill chuck to prevent slipping during use. The set covers a wide range of sizes from 1/16 inch up to 1/2 inch, making it versatile for various projects. It comes in a plastic case that keeps everything organized but isn’t the most rugged option for heavy workshop use.

These bits excel in durability and performance but might be overkill if you only need to drill softer materials like wood or plastic. The price tends to be higher compared to basic steel bits because of the cobalt content. If you often work with hard metals and want a long-lasting, high-quality set, this BOSCH kit is a dependable choice, whereas for occasional or light-duty drilling, a less expensive set might suffice.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,431
Material
Size
Point Angle

Most important from
6830 reviews

Material
The M42 cobalt alloy significantly reduces heat buildup and acts like a lubricant, helping the bits stay sharp longer and cut smoothly.
Size
The three-flat shank on larger bits ensures a secure grip in the drill chuck, preventing slippage during use.
Point Angle
The 135-degree split point design eliminates slipping and the need for a center punch, making starting holes easier.
#2

DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece (DW1361)

Rating
8.2
Coating
Flute Design

Most important from
28689 reviews

Coating
The titanium coating makes the bits quite durable.
Flute Design
The Pilot Point design successfully prevents the drill bit from 'walking' when you first start drilling.

The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable drill bits for various materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. The set includes 21 pieces, ranging from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch sizes, catering to a wide array of drilling tasks. One of its standout features is the Titanium Nitride coating, which enhances durability and extends the life of the bits, making them a great investment. The Pilot Point design allows for cleaner holes and starts on contact, reducing the chances of wandering, which can be particularly helpful for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Another advantage is the tapered web design, which provides extra strength and helps minimize breakage during use. This is especially beneficial for users who frequently drill into tougher materials. The no-spin shank is also a thoughtful feature that ensures better grip and easier handling.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the set covers a range of sizes, it may not include all the very small sizes needed for specialized tasks. Additionally, the plastic case, while sturdy, may not be as durable as a metal one, which some users prefer for long-term storage. This drill bit set is well-suited for both home improvement projects and professional needs, offering a blend of quality and versatility that most users will find beneficial.

Rating
8.2
Coating
Flute Design

Most important from
28689 reviews

Coating
The titanium coating makes the bits quite durable.
Flute Design
The Pilot Point design successfully prevents the drill bit from 'walking' when you first start drilling.
#3

Milwaukee 48-89-4680 18-Piece Shockwave Impact Duty Thunderbolt Titanium Drill Bit Set w/Anti-Walking 135 Degree Angled Tip and Storage Case

The Milwaukee 48-89-4680 18-Piece Shockwave Impact Duty Titanium Drill Bit Set is designed for those who require reliable and durable drill bits for heavy-duty tasks. One of its standout features is the titanium coating, which significantly reduces heat buildup during use. This means you can use the bits for extended periods with less risk of warping, making them suitable for various applications. The special parabolic flute design enhances chip clearance, allowing for a quicker and cooler drilling experience, which is a big plus for efficiency.

With an assortment of sizes included in the set, ranging from 1/16” to 3/8”, you’ll find a bit for almost any task. The hex shank type also makes it easy to switch out bits, ensuring compatibility with most drills. Plus, the included storage case is well-designed, featuring a slide lock system and individual compartments that keep your bits organized and protected during transport.

These bits are particularly effective for higher torque applications; however, they may not be the best choice for softer materials, as the titanium coating can sometimes lead to less effective drilling in those cases. Additionally, the price point may be higher than basic bit sets, which could be a consideration for casual DIY users or those on a tight budget.

Buying Guide for the Best Metal Drill Bits

Choosing the right metal drill bit can make a significant difference in the quality and efficiency of your drilling projects. Metal drill bits are specifically designed to cut through metal surfaces, and selecting the right one involves understanding various specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the key specifications to consider when picking metal drill bits and how to navigate them.
MaterialThe material of the drill bit is crucial because it determines the bit's durability and effectiveness in cutting through metal. Common materials include high-speed steel (HSS), cobalt, and carbide. HSS bits are suitable for general-purpose drilling and are more affordable. Cobalt bits are more durable and can handle harder metals, making them ideal for tougher jobs. Carbide bits are the hardest and most durable, perfect for heavy-duty and high-precision tasks. Choose HSS for light to moderate tasks, cobalt for tougher metals, and carbide for the most demanding applications.
CoatingCoatings on drill bits enhance their performance and longevity. Common coatings include black oxide, titanium, and diamond. Black oxide increases the bit's resistance to rust and wear, making it suitable for general use. Titanium coatings reduce friction and heat buildup, extending the bit's life and making it ideal for frequent use. Diamond coatings are the hardest and provide superior cutting performance, especially for very hard metals. For occasional use, black oxide is sufficient. For frequent drilling, titanium is a good choice, and for the hardest metals, diamond-coated bits are the best.
SizeThe size of the drill bit, including its diameter and length, determines the size of the hole you can drill and the depth you can reach. Drill bits come in various diameters, typically measured in millimeters or inches. Smaller diameters are suitable for precision work and smaller holes, while larger diameters are used for bigger holes. The length of the bit affects how deep you can drill. Choose the size based on the specific requirements of your project, ensuring the diameter matches the hole size you need and the length is sufficient for the depth you want to achieve.
Point AngleThe point angle of a drill bit affects how it cuts into the metal. Common point angles are 118 degrees and 135 degrees. A 118-degree point angle is standard and works well for softer metals, providing a good balance between cutting speed and control. A 135-degree point angle is flatter and more suitable for harder metals, offering better precision and reducing the risk of the bit wandering. For general-purpose drilling, a 118-degree angle is usually sufficient. For harder metals or more precise work, opt for a 135-degree angle.
Flute DesignThe flute design of a drill bit refers to the grooves that spiral up the bit, helping to remove chips and debris from the hole. Standard flutes are suitable for most drilling tasks, providing a good balance of chip removal and strength. Parabolic flutes are deeper and more efficient at removing chips, making them ideal for deeper holes and softer metals. For general use, standard flutes are adequate. If you are drilling deeper holes or working with softer metals, consider bits with parabolic flutes for better performance.

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