Hardened steel is a tough and durable material. For you to put holes into it, you need something strong. When you need to put holes in hardened steel, the best bet is a cobalt drill bit. Cobalt drill bits come in different sets that allow you to customize and bring precision to your projects. They can cut through aluminum, cast iron, steel, plastic, hardened carbon, and many more materials.

The market offers multiple cobalt drill bits for hardened steel, which can confuse you on deciding which one to purchase. You can find a single drill bit, but most come in sets to make your work fast and easy. In this guide, we will take you through the best cobalt drill bits for hardened steel.

What are Cobalt Drill Bits?

A drill bit is a tool built for drilling holes in different materials. It can be used to drill holes in various types of wood, metal, plastic, ceramic tile, concrete, porcelain, sheet metal, cast iron, fiberglass, carbon, aluminum, etc. Most drill bits are constructed from carbide, high-speed cobalt, and steel. Cobalt is the most preferred because it is heat and abrasion-resistant.

The heat resistance ability makes it ideal for drilling through a wide range of materials without melting. Our guide below lists the best cobalt drill bits for stainless steel and hardened steel.

The Top 7 Best Cobalt Drill Bits for Hardened Steel

Knowing the best drill bit that will suit your needs can be tricky. If you are new to drilling bits, you will need to research to buy a quality product. To make your work easy, check our list below.

1. Amoolo 3 4 Cobalt Drill Bit For Hardened Steel
2. BOSCH 2135 Cobalt Drill Bits For Stainless Steel
3. Bosch M42 Cobalt Drill Bits 14 Pc. Set
4. Irwin Cobalt Steel Drill Bits 29-Piece
5. Metric M42 Cobalt Drill Bits For Hardened Steel
6. COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bits For Hardened Steel
7. Dewalt Cobalt Drill Bit Stainless Steel

1.  Amoolo 3 4 Cobalt Drill Bit For Hardened Steel

Lastly, we have this 3 4 cobalt drill bit for hardened steel set from amoolo, suited for different types of materials, such as cast iron, aluminum, plastic, sheet metal, softer materials, stainless steel, carbon, and many more. It has a 5% cobalt concentration and a high grade of M35. The set has a high heat resistance capacity, and it will not get damaged even when you are working on tough projects.

Furthermore, 3/4 cobalt drill bit for hardened steel has a ground spiral groove design that clears particles fast, reduces friction and heat for a quick drilling performance. The 135-degrees split point with a shank prevents walking to make drilling more precise and faster. It is a complete combo set of 13 jobber length drill bits for metal drilling. The bits fit well with a majority of power drills on the market.

All the bits contain a 5% cobalt material that increases wear resistance, heat resistance, and durability. The steel drill bits can penetrate a 5mm thick 304 stainless steel plate within 5 seconds.

Pros

Suitable for hardened materials and softer materials

The case makes it portable and simple to store

Cons

The smaller bits are not strong enough for tough applications.

2. BOSCH 2135 Cobalt Drill Bits For Stainless Steel

BOSCH 2135 cobalt drill bit is a great tool designed to drill tougher materials and is built for durability. The drill bit has a heavy-duty construction that can withstand high-temperature applications of up to 1, 100 degrees F for longer periods. It doesn’t come with a carrying case, which is expectable with a single-bit drill, so you will have to create room for it in your collection. It is available in a jobber length, full shank.

With its thick web design, you will have excellent grip, and it will not come off any surface once it goes in, even when working in tight spaces. The surface has a heavy-duty coating that prevents abrasion, corrosion and enables it to resist heat. In addition, the tip is sharp and well hardened so that it can penetrate through most metals with ease without melting.

Pros

It withstands high temperature, and it is 4x durable than standard metal drill bits

It is coated for better performance and durability

Works well with a variety of hardened metals

Cons

It is a bit pricey for one drill bit

Doesn’t come with a storage case.

3. Bosch M42 Cobalt Drill Bits 14 Pc. Set

Bosch is a known brand that provides its customers with the best tools that make your work easy and accurate. This time, BOSCH has designed this drill bit set made of premium M42 alloy and high 8% cobalt concentration. With this heavy-duty construction, efficiency and durability are increased up to 10%.

The construction has high heat resistance, abrasion resistance, and it can cut through even the hardest materials without compromising precision. Whether it is titanium, aluminum, or cast iron, the BOSCH drill bit set will do the trick. Furthermore, it has a no-skate tip that makes your projects fast and accurate. It won’t skid on surfaces you are working on making unwanted dents.

Other than good performance, it has an excellent design. It has a thick web helix design that guarantees perfect grip and stability. It does not come off easily once it goes into the surface, and it is stable even during tricky applications in tight spaces.

Pros

Penetrates hard surfaces without melting or bending

All the bits are heat and abrasion-resistant

Cons

The customer care service needs to be improved

It is an expensive drill bit set.

4. Irwin Cobalt Steel Drill Bits 29-Piece

If you are looking for a heavy-duty drill bit set suitable for drilling through hardened metals, the IRWIN drill bit set will do the trick. As one of the most trusted power tools by professionals, you will have the peace of mind that you are buying easy-to-use and durable bits. It is a 29-piece cobalt drill bit set, where the sizes start at 0.062 inches and scale up to 0.50 inches.

Each IRWIN bit features a split point 135-degree tip to increase accuracy and reduce waking across the surface of the metal. The cobalt construction allows the pieces to resist high heat and abrasion, and all the 29 pieces are designed to almost any size hole for your project.

It has a compact size that fits well in any pocket, and the rubber-molded case protects the kit and user from burns after use. Other than protection, the compact case provides all the bits with secure storage, simple carrying, and the case can be stored anywhere.

Pros

The drill bits do not heat up or melt when in operation

Included rubber-molded case makes it convenient to carry and store

 Cons

This set is costly for anyone on a budget.

5. Metric M42 Cobalt Drill Bits For Hardened Steel

Metric M42drill bits set is the best set to purchase if you want something that will offer you the best chip resistance, wear resistance, and durability. It has a 3 steps design tip drills with less force and eliminates walking across your work surface. This makes it suitable for cutting through stainless steel, hardwood, rigid metal, aluminum, plastic, and copper.

The cobalt-containing design allows it to perform better in hardwood drilling. Metric M42 has a sharp bit edge that cuts metal material into long strips of iron chips. The drill bits set is made of premium cobalt that enhances durability, and the 60-70 HRC means it has 3X cutting power and 2x durability. This drill bits set stands out because it maintains high hardness at higher temperatures and helps hardened steel maintain hardness approximately at 860-880-degrees.

Pros

Great set that drills with less force and more accuracy

It has good resistance to wear and heat

Great for drilling hardwood, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, steel, plastic, and hard metals

Cons

They break off when not well lubricated

6. COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bits For Hardened Steel

This is another quality drill bit set liked by many professionals and enthusiasts because of the multi-functional advantages it offers a user. The best thing about this set is the unique twist design with a 135-degrees split point.

When it comes to durability, this drill bit set is remarkable. It has a 5% cobalt concentration that makes it durable, resist high heat, and wear. The sturdy construction makes the drill bit set great for drilling high hardened metal, including steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloy, and titanium.

The set includes a drill bit holder with a size index to make transport and storage hassle-free, and the set fits most brands on the market. All the bits are clearly labeled by size to offer you easy access and make indexing easy.

Pros

This is a well-designed and durable drill bit set

Perfect for cutting both soft and hardened materials

It cuts everything faster and with more precision

Cons

The case does not offer much color variation, only comes in blue

All the bits do not hold the sharpness for long.

7. Dewalt Cobalt Drill Bit Stainless Steel

The DEWALT cobalt drill set is the best tool for artisans who always want to make precise and fast drills. With the heavy-duty material making up the bits, you can do some heavy-duty drilling without the fear of stuttering or melting. The bits can cut through high-strength stainless steel without compromising the speed of the drill machine.

Moreover, it has a compact and small storage size that perfectly fits inside a small case and is suitable for organizing loose bits. If you want to see what you got in your case efficiently, you won’t struggle anymore. DEWALT Cobalt set features a clear lid that enables you to see contents in the case to give. The set comes with 14 drill bits packed in a sturdy carrying case, where the case provides transportation and storage.

The bits come in a quality storage case made from quality ABS material that ensures the bits are well packed all the time. Inside the case, you will find a lot for all the 14 drill pits, helping you easily identify and pick different bit sizes on the move.

Pros

It has a patented bit-bar design for simple removal of drill bits

The included case makes it convenient to store and carry anywhere

All the sets are heavy-duty, and they don’t break easily

Cons

The tips get rigid, making it a bit hard to sharpen them when they wear off

Factors to Consider when Purchasing a best drill bits for hardened steel: Buyer’s Guide

Cobalt drill bit for hardened steel are a great choice for drilling hardened steel due to their exceptional heat resistance and durability. These bits are made from a high-speed steel alloy that contains cobalt, which makes them harder and more resistant to wear than traditional high-speed steel bits.

Additionally, cobalt drill bits maintain their sharpness for longer periods of time, making them ideal for drilling through tough materials like hardened steel.

They also have a higher melting point than regular HSS bits, this means they can withstand the high drilling temperatures generated when drilling hard materials. They can also be used for drilling stainless steel, cast iron and other hard materials.

They are designed with a 135-degree split point, which allows for easy starting and reduced slipping, and a multi-flute design for a smoother and faster drilling experience. They are also typically more expensive than other types of drill bits, but their improved performance and longer lifespan make them well worth the investment.

When selecting cobalt drill bits for hardened steel at Lowe’s, consider size, coating, and brand. Opt for cobalt high-speed steel bits as they’re best suited for hard materials. Look for bits with a titanium or black oxide coating for increased durability and heat resistance. Popular brands like DeWalt and Irwin offer reliable options. Additionally, check customer reviews for real-world performance feedback. Don’t forget safety gear like goggles and gloves for safe drilling.

Coating

 A good drill bit should have a coating that will help reduce friction in the cut, reduce heat build-up, and improve material flow out of the drilling point. Still, the coating protects against rust, water damage, and corrosion. The most used coating is titanium, and it is most preferred because it increases durability.

Material

Drill bits are made from different materials that enhance good abrasion resistance, toughness, and durability. They are made from high-speed steel, carbon steel, titanium, cobalt, carbide-tipped, and diamond. In our guide, we have concentrated on those drill bits that are made from cobalt. Cobalt is tough, and it is used to cut through most materials while retaining its hardness. Besides, cobalt has good resistance to abrasion and rust.

Drill Bit Size

Drill bits have pilot hole charts that help you identify the best bit for your task. The charts are only meant to be used as guidelines. If you are working on softwoods, use a bit 1/64″ smaller than the target hole. You can use the same size as the whole when working on different materials. If not sure which to get, get a drill bit 1/64″ larger than the hole you want to create.

Furthermore, you have to know the materials you will be working on to get a perfect size.

Working Frequency

Metal drilling creates a lot of friction and heat. The stress placed on the drill bits tends to wear them fast. If you intend to drill hardened steel, buy a drill bit designed with durability in mind. Also, ensure the drill bit can be sharpened so that it can maintain its working efficiency. The good thing about drill bits infused with cobalt is that they can keep their edge for long.

Chuck

A chuck is a clump designed to hold drill bits while the drill is rotating them securely. Always keep in mind that the larger the chuck, the bigger the bit you can use. The size of the chuck needed will depend on the task you want it for. Moreover, a 1/4″ chuck is enough for a simple drill driver. A 3/8″ drill works well with many bits.

Angle

The best cobalt drill bits for hardened steel have a 135-degrees split point and twist design that helps increase the cutting speed, ensuring self-centering and preventing walking. With the shallow angle, the drill bit can cut into material with dulling fast. The 188-degree angle is excellent for drilling into soft materials like aluminum and wood. For a 135-degrees angle, it is excellent for drilling into hard materials such as hardened steel.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cobalt Drill Bit for Hardened Steel

Q: How long can a drilling bit last?

Cobalt drilling bits are constructed from heavy-duty and quality materials. If well maintained, they can last a lifetime.

Q: Can you sharpen a cobalt drill bit?

A: Yes, you can re-sharpen a cobalt drill bit. You can re-sharpen it using a drill bit sharpener or a grinding disc if you have the skills.

Q: When should you use a cobalt drilling bit?

A: Cobalt drill bits are designed for drilling metal, such as stainless steel. The addition of cobalt helps the drill bit perform at different temperatures and reduce heat build-up.

Q: What is the material used to make cobalt drill bits?

A: While the name suggests they are made from cobalt, that isn’t the case. Generally, drill bits are made from high-speed steel containing 5% to 8% of cobalt.

What is the Best Drill Bits for Hardened Steel

1. Carbide tipped drill bits are the best for hardened steel due to their durability and resistance to wear.
2. Cobalt drill bits are also a good choice for hardened steel as they are more heat resistant.
3. Look for a high Rockwell hardness rating when selecting a drill bit for hardened steel.
4. A 135-degree split point design allows for easy starting and reduced slipping.
5. Opt for a multi-flute design for a smoother and faster drilling experience.
6. A parabolic flute design can help clear debris more efficiently.
7. A gold surface treatment can enhance the longevity of the drill bit.
8. Consider a tapered web design for increased strength and flexibility.
9. A solid carbide construction can provide an even longer lifespan.
10. It’s always better to purchase a high-quality drill bits from a reputable manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and durability.

Are there Good Drill Bits for Hardened Steel?

When looking for a drill bit, make sure it is specifically designed for cutting through steel and rigid metal. A drill bit with more cobalt in it will have enough power to cut through steel without blurring. Most of them have a blunt tip but not a pointed one. In our review, we have the best cobalt drill bits that are well suited for hardened steel.

What Speed Do You Drill Stainless Steel?

At its initial state, stainless steel is a soft metal. What stainless steel does is harden quickly when heated, which explains the high heat when you drill faster. When it hardens, it becomes hard to drill, and it takes time. Now, this is where cobalt drill bits come to help.

When drilling stainless steel, the speed rate and feed should be reduced up to 50%, mostly when drilling holes deeper than 4 drill diameters. In general, it is advisable to drill metal using a slow speed using a drill designed for hardened steel. Hard metals like stainless steel require even slower speeds.

How to Drill Stainless Steel?

Because stainless steel is a rigid material, you will need some skills to cut into it. Make a sharp drill and keep it turning slowly as you press hard. If you want to know you are exerting the right amount of pressure, a spiral of material will come off the bit as it turns. Spray a lubricant on the tip of the bit to cool the stainless steel and the drill bit. Keep lubricating both the tip and the stainless steel to make your operation smoother.

However, it would be best to take precautions because drill bits can snap when you are working on any material.

Differences Between Cobalt and Titanium Drill Bits

The main difference between cobalt and titanium drill bits is that titanium drills bits work well for softer materials. In contrast, cobalt drill bits work better with rigid materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and many more. Titanium drill bits have moderate heat resistance, while cobalt drill bits have high heat resistance. Furthermore, cobalt drill bits are more durable than titanium drill bits.

Can you Use Cobalt Drill Bits in Wood?

Yes, you can use cobalt drill bits in wood. Although, they are preferred for aluminum, steel, and tough metals because they are hard and dissipate heat fast. However, cobalt drill bits can easily damage your wood. To get the best results, use a drill bit designed for wood or use Titanium drill bits designed for softer materials like wood.

Conclusion

If you have an incoming or an ongoing project that involves drilling hardened steel or any other robust material, you should focus on getting one drill bit set from our guide above. Because they contain cobalt, they can cut through metals, no matter the grade. Besides, they are resistant to abrasion and heat, making them serve you for long without bending or melting.

Before winding up, we would like to give you a glimpse of our favorite sets. The DEWALT Cobalt Drill Bit Set is the best overall because of its amazing features and durability. Metric M42 8% Cobalt Drill Bits Set is the best choice if you are on a budget.