Have you ever tried to drill through steel with a regular drill bit? Or have you wondered what might happen if you try?

There are several possibilities. The bit can either slip away due to the smoothness and hardness of the steel or it can create friction or snap during the process.

Drilling through steel is a challenging task, you need to select the right drill bit to get precise and clean holes. There are several types of drill bits available in the market, but not all of them are suitable for drilling through metal, especially steel.

In this article, you will get top 5 drill bits for steel that are designed to make your drilling process more efficient and accurate.

After tons of research and user reviews, we have selected these 5 drill bits for steel including hardened and stainless.

1. DEWALT DW1361 Titanium Pilot Point Drill Bit Set
2. Hilti TE-CX Masonry Drill Bit Set
3. IRWIN Tools Cobalt M-35 Metal Index Drill Bit Set
4. Bosch CO2139 9/64 In. x 3-1/4 In. Cobalt Drill Bit
5. Milwaukee Shockwave Titanium Drill Bit Set

Now, let’s discuss each of these drill bits in detail and why they are the best for drilling through steel.

Dewalt Dw1361 Titanium Pilot Point Drill Bit Set

This set includes 21 drill bits made from titanium and high-speed steel. The pilot point design ensures accurate and clean holes, and the titanium coating provides longer life and durability. These drill bits can drill through steel, wood, and plastic and come in various sizes, ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch.

Features:

• Titanium and high-speed steel construction
• Pilot point design for accurate drilling
• ‎Titanium nitride for durability
• 21 drill bits in various sizes

Performance

The DEWALT DW1361 set offers excellent performance on steel, wood, and plastic. The pilot point design ensures precise and clean holes, and the titanium coating increases the life and durability of the drill bits.

Pros:

• Pilot point design for accurate drilling
• Titanium coating for longer life and durability
• Suitable for drilling through multiple materials
• Various sizes for versatile use

Cons:

• Not so durable

The Comoware Step Drill Bit Set

It is a top-performing option for those seeking precision and versatility in their drill bits for steel. This product boasts a range of features and benefits that make it stand out from other drill bit sets on the market.

Features:

• Made from high-speed steel for durability and strength
• Titanium coating reduces heat and friction during use
• Step design allows for drilling multiple hole sizes with one bit
• Two-flute design for faster and smoother cutting
• Comes with a compact storage case for easy organization and access

Performance

The performance of the COMOWARE Step Drill Bit Set is highly impressive, with fast and efficient drilling in a range of steel materials. The high-speed steel construction and titanium coating contribute to the bits’ ability to withstand the heat and friction generated during use, resulting in a longer lifespan and consistent performance.

Pros:

• Made from high-speed steel for durability and strength
• Titanium coating reduces heat and friction during use
• Step design allows for drilling multiple hole sizes with one bit
• Two-flute design for faster and smoother cutting
• Compact storage case included for easy organization and access

Cons:

• The bits may dull more quickly than expected

Irwin Tools Cobalt M-35 Metal Index Drill Bit Set

This set includes 29 drill bits made from cobalt M-35 high-speed steel. The 135-degree split point design provides better accuracy and prevents walking, while the cobalt construction ensures durability and heat resistance. The set also comes with a convenient storage case for easy organization and access.

Features

• Cobalt M-35 high-speed steel construction
• 135-degree split point design for accuracy
• Suitable for drilling through metals
• Comes with a storage case

Performance

The IRWIN Tools Cobalt M-35 set offers excellent performance on metals like steel, stainless steel, and cast iron. The cobalt construction provides durability and heat resistance, while the 135-degree split point design ensures accurate drilling and prevents walking.

Pros:

• Made from high-quality materials for durability and heat resistance
• Comes with a range of sizes to handle a variety of drilling tasks
• Split point design reduces slipping and walking
• Heavy-duty construction reduces the risk of breakage
• Convenient storage case included for organization and access

Cons:

• Bit Expensive

Bosch Co14b 14 Pc. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit Set

The BOSCH CO14B 14 Pc. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit Set is an outstanding set that is perfect for steel drilling tasks. The set comprises 14 high-quality M42 cobalt drill bits that offer enhanced durability and long-lasting performance. The cobalt construction also makes the bits resistant to heat and abrasion, ensuring that they maintain their sharpness and cutting ability even when used on tough steel materials.

Features

• Made from high-quality M42 cobalt for enhanced durability and long-lasting performance
• Cobalt construction makes the bits resistant to heat and abrasion
• 135-degree split-point design ensures easy starting and fast penetration
• Designed to reduce vibration during use, which helps to improve accuracy and prevent fatigue
• Suitable for use with a range of drill types and can easily handle tasks such as drilling through hardened steel, cast iron, and stainless steel

Performance

The BOSCH CO14B 14 Pc. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit Set delivers exceptional performance in steel drilling tasks. The 135-degree split-point design of the bits ensures easy starting and fast penetration, making them suitable for use with a range of steel materials. This design also contributes to the overall performance of the bits, allowing for precise and accurate drilling without wandering or slipping.

Pros:

• Made from high-quality M42 cobalt for enhanced durability and long-lasting performance
• Cobalt construction makes the bits resistant to heat and abrasion
• 135-degree split-point design ensures easy starting and fast penetration
• Designed to reduce vibration during use, which helps to improve accuracy and prevent fatigue
• Suitable for use with a range of drill types and can easily handle tasks such as drilling through hardened steel, cast iron, and stainless steel

Cons:

• Smaller bits are not so durable

Milwaukee Shockwave Titanium Drill Bit Set

This set includes 23 drill bits made from titanium-coated high-speed steel. The shockwave design provides better strength and durability, and the titanium coating ensures longer life and faster drilling. The bits are suitable for drilling through metals, wood, and plastic and come in various sizes.

Features

• Titanium-coated high-speed steel construction
• Shockwave design for strength and durability
• Suitable for drilling through multiple materials
• 23 drill bits in various sizes

Performance

The Milwaukee Shockwave Titanium set offers excellent performance on steel, wood, and plastic. The shockwave design provides better strength and durability, while the titanium coating ensures longer life and faster drilling.

Pros:

• Suitable for drilling through multiple materials
• Shockwave design for strength and durability
• Titanium coating for longer life and faster drilling
• Various sizes for versatile use

Cons:

• Shortage of 1/2” drill bit

Drill Hog USA Cobalt Drill Bit Set

The “Drill Hog USA Cobalt Drill Bit Set” is a popular option for those in need of high-quality drill bits. With its cobalt construction and a range of sizes, this set promises to provide durability and versatility for various drilling needs. In this review, we will examine the features of this set, its performance, as well as the pros and cons.

Features:

• Cobalt M42 steel
• 29-piece set includes a range of various sized bit
• 135-degree split point design
• Tri-flat shank design
• Backed by a lifetime warranty.

Performance: The Drill Hog USA Cobalt Drill Bit Set has a reputation for excellent performance in a range of materials, including stainless steel, cast iron, and hard plastics. The bits are designed to last up to ten times longer than regular high-speed steel bits and can withstand high temperatures without losing their hardness. The 135-degree split point design allows for easy penetration and accurate drilling, making it a reliable option for both professional and DIY projects.

Pros:

• Made of durable M42 steel with a high cobalt content
• Includes 29 different sizes ranging from 1/16″ to 1/2″.
• Comes with a durable case for easy storage and organization.
• The 135-degree split point design prevents slipping and walking during drilling.
• Suitable for a wide range of materials, including stainless steel, cast iron, and hard plastics.

Cons:

• The price of the set is relatively higher.

COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set: Best for professional use

COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a high-quality drilling set that is designed to make drilling tasks much more manageable. This set is made of high-speed steel M35 and 5% cobalt, which provides extended tool life compared to ordinary drill bits. This set is ideal for drilling hardened metals, cast iron, stainless steel, and wood plastic. In this response, we will discuss the features and performance of COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set and list its pros and cons.

Features:

• M35 high-speed steel and 5% cobalt
• 135-degree tips for cast iron and heat-treated steel
• Available in different sizes, including 115pcs, 29pcs, and 13pcs.
• Jobber length drill bits that range from 1/16″ to 1/2″
• Up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit hardness

Performance: The COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set is designed to deliver high performance when drilling through metal. The bits are made from premium M35 cobalt steel, which is known for its strength, durability, and heat resistance.

The 135-degree split point design helps to reduce walking and improve accuracy during drilling, which is particularly important when working with metal. The bits are also coated with gold oxide to increase their hardness and reduce friction, allowing for faster and more efficient drilling.

• Pros:
  Made of high-speed steel M35 and 5% cobalt, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
• Can retain their hardness up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, making them ideal for drilling hard materials.
• Indexed metal storage case that makes it easy to transport the drill bits to different worksites.
• Twist design of the drill bits enhances their performance and makes them more efficient.
• Extended tool life compared to ordinary drill bits.

Cons:

• The price of COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set is higher than that of ordinary drill bit sets.
• The drill bits may not be suitable for drilling through soft materials as they can be too aggressive.

Milwaukee Red Helix Cobalt Drill Bits: Best for carbon metals

Drilling through carbon steel can be a challenging task, especially if you don’t have the right drill bits. That’s why Milwaukee Red Helix Cobalt Drill Bits are worth considering. They are designed to make drilling through carbon steel a breeze, and they come with some impressive features that make them stand out in the market.

Features:

• 135-degree split point design for precision starts and reduced walking
• Red Helix design for rapid chip removal and reduced heat buildup
• Cobalt construction for longer life and durability
• Made in the USA

Performance:

Milwaukee Red Helix Cobalt Drill Bits are specifically designed to work well on carbon steel. They feature a 135-degree split point design that ensures precision starts and reduced walking, making them ideal for drilling through tough materials like carbon steel. Additionally, their Red Helix design provides rapid chip removal, reducing heat buildup that can damage your bits and the material being drilled.

Pros:

• Precision starts and reduced walking for accurate drilling.
• Rapid chip removal for reduced heat buildup
• Cobalt construction for longer life and durability
• Made in the USA

Cons:

• These bits can be expensive.

Norseman Super Premium Drill Bit Set

The Norseman Super Premium Drill Bit Set is a top-quality tool that is designed to meet the needs of both professional and amateur DIY enthusiasts. This drill bit set is made of high-speed steel, which ensures durability and longevity, even under heavy use. In this article, we will take a closer look at the features, performance, pros, and cons of the Norseman Super Premium Drill Bit Set.

Features:

• HSS135-degree split point design for fast and accurate drilling
• Titanium nitride coating
• Comes with a 29-piece set
• Self-centering design
• Tri-flat shank design

Performance: The Norseman Super Premium Drill Bit Set is known for its outstanding performance. The drill bits are designed to work with a wide range of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic. They are also suitable for use with a range of power tools, including drills and impact drivers. The Molybdenum High-Speed Steel used to make the drill bits ensures that they remain sharp even after repeated use, resulting in clean and accurate holes.

Pros:

• The Norseman Super Premium Drill Bit Set comes with a range of drill bits that are suitable for use with a variety of materials.
• The Molybdenum High-Speed Steel used to make the drill bits ensures durability and longevity, even under heavy use.
• The compact and sturdy case makes it easy to store and transport the drill bits.
• The drill bits remain sharp even after repeated use, resulting in clean and accurate holes.
• The range of drill bit sizes included in the set makes it suitable for both professional and DIY use.

Cons:

• The Norseman Super Premium Drill Bit Set is relatively expensive compared to other drill bit sets on the market.
• The set does not come with any instructions or guidance on how to use the drill bits, which may be a disadvantage for beginners.

MAXTOOL 29 Pieces HSS M2 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits

MAXTOOL 29 Pieces HSS M2 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits are a high-quality drilling set that is designed to make drilling tasks much more manageable. This set is made of high-speed steel M2, which provides excellent performance in drilling various materials. In this response, we will discuss the features and performance of MAXTOOL 29 Pieces HSS M2 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits and list its pros and cons.

Features:

• A set of 29pcs made of high-speed steel M2.
• Suitable for drilling various metals
• Jobber length design
• 135-degree split point design
• Comes with a metal storage.

Performance: MAXTOOL 29 Pieces HSS M2 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits perform exceptionally well when drilling through various materials such as metal, plastic, and wood. The high-speed steel M2 material used in making the drill bits makes them durable and long-lasting. The 135-degree split point design of the drill bits reduces walking and makes them more precise when drilling through hard materials. The jobber length design of the drill bits makes them suitable for drilling deeper holes, making them ideal for professionals who need to drill through different materials regularly.

Pros:

• Made of high-speed steel M2, which provides excellent performance in drilling various materials
• Jobber length design that makes them suitable for drilling deeper holes
• 135-degree split point design that makes them ideal for drilling through hard materials with less effort
• Metal storage case that makes it easy to transport the drill bits to different worksites
• Durable and long-lasting, thanks to the high-speed steel M2 material.

Cons:

• The set only comes with 29pcs, which may not be sufficient for professionals who require more drill bit sizes
• The drill bits may not be suitable for drilling through extremely hard materials

How We Choose the Right Drill Bits for Steel?  — Buying Guide

Selecting the right drill bit for the right job is not an easy task for novices. If you have experience with drilling job, you already know the facts. We have considered few things and rest of the part comes from our experience and user reviews.

Anyways, you can consider following:

Material: The materials must be high-speed steel or cobalt, as these are durable and can handle the high heat and pressure when drilling through steel.

Coating: Consider drill bits with coatings like titanium, which can increase the life of the bit and improve its performance on steel.

Size: Size matters in this time. Choose drill bits with the appropriate size for the job. Use larger bits for larger hole and smaller for smaller hole. The best is having a set of drill bits with different sizes for versatility.

Point design: Select drill bits with a pilot point or a split point design, as these features can help prevent the bit from slipping or walking when starting to drill.

Shank size: Check the shank size of the drill bit to ensure it is compatible with your drill chuck. Most drill bits come with a 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch shank size.

Brand and warranty: Choose reputable brands with a good reputation for quality and durability. Look for products with a warranty to ensure that you can get a replacement if the product fails.

In order to get the most of your investment, we hope you can choose the best drill bits for steel for your particular requirements.

Wrap Up

Last but not least, experience is priceless. Only tips might not be able to help you without experience. At least you can sort out some of the best drill from out there. We just put the best drill bits for steel considering budget and nature of task from our experiences.

Choose the drill bits matches your specific needs and requirements so that you can effectively drill through steel with ease.