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When it comes to tackling metalwork projects, the quality of your tools is paramount. A twist drill is an essential component of any metal drilling job, offering precision and efficiency. Choosing the right drill bit can make a significant difference in the outcome of your work, whether you’re drilling through soft aluminum or hardened steel. In this guide, you’ll discover the best drill bits for metal that ensure high-precision drilling every time.
6 Best-Selling Drill Bits of Metal in 2024
The metal drill bits that are topping sales charts in 2024 combine durability with cutting-edge technology. Trusted retailers are showcasing collections that cater to both professional tradespeople and weekend warriors, ensuring that everyone has access to the best tools for their projects.
1. Drill America D/A29J-CO-PC: Superior Cobalt Set for Hardened Steel
Drill America’s D/A29J-CO-PC set stands out as one of the best drill bits for hardened steel. This set includes 29 bits, each crafted from M42 cobalt, known for its robustness and ability to drill at higher speeds. These jobber length bits conform to the national aerospace standard 907, promising reliable performance.
With their high-speed steel bits core and cobalt blend, these bits are ideal for drilling into materials like stainless steel, maintaining a sharp edge for longer periods. They are also well-suited for both stationary presses and cordless drills, offering versatility across various drilling speeds and applications.
- Boasts exceptional durability and heat resistance
- Designed for different drilling speeds based on material
- Premium quality comes with a higher price tag
- Smaller diameter bits may be prone to snapping
2. IRWIN Drill Bit Set, M35 Cobalt Alloy Steel Steel, 29-Piece
Irwin’s 29-Piece Cobalt M-35 Set is renowned for being the best metal drill option for those who require resilience and the ability to drill at higher speeds. The bits are engineered from M35 steel, with a 5% cobalt blend, optimizing them for tough applications.
The M35 cobalt series, which is slightly less hard than M42, offers a balanced toughness for regular use. This set’s aggressive point geometry allows for efficient cutting and extended life, making it a solid investment for metal drilling tasks.
- Excellent for drilling through hardened materials
- Effective for removing broken bolts and studs
- Razor sharp and well-manufactured bits
- It’s high-quality construction might be more than what’s necessary for basic home repairs
3. Milwaukee Red Helix: Optimal for Non-Hardened Carbon Steels
The Milwaukee Red Helix bits are designed with a unique flute design that makes them optimal for cutting through non-hardened carbon steels. Their Quad Edge tip decreases the heat build-up and allows for faster removal of chips, reducing friction and increasing drilling efficiency.
Perfect for construction and fabrication jobs, these bits bring speed and longevity to your metal drilling tasks.
- Offers excellent durability
- Excellent speed for frequent users
- Good quality and highly effective on stainless steel
- Its specialized design means they may not be the best fit for working with harder metals or other materials
4. Diablo Rebar Demon Bits: Precision Drilling in Rebar Applications
Diablo Rebar Demon Bits are engineered for precision drilling in rebar applications, where typical bits fall short. These bits are optimized for use with a rotary hammer, providing the necessary impact and rotational force to bore through tough rebar with ease.
They feature a carbide tip designed to withstand the rigors of high-force drilling and offer a long service life.
- Excels in specialized applications
- Offers unmatched drilling in challenging materials
- May not be required for general metal drilling, limiting their versatility
5. DeWalt DWA1240: Cost-Effective Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Everyday Use
The DeWalt DWA1240 cobalt drill bit set provides a cost-effective solution for basic metal drilling needs. This set of bits is perfect for DIY enthusiasts or professionals seeking a reliable set for frequent use.
Made of cobalt-infused steel, these bits maintain sharpness and provide a longer lifespan than standard bits, making them a smart choice for those on a budget.
- Praised for its affordability
- Sharp and durable, providing clean holes with minimal wear
- Comes with a variety of sizes for versatility
- Offers great value for money
- May not hold up as well as higher-end bits in more demanding applications
6. Irwin Unibit Cobalt Step Bits: Versatile Step Bits for Metal
The Irwin Unibit Cobalt Step Bits stand out as the best step bits for various drilling applications, especially in thin metal drilling. The 3-piece kit includes bits with a SpeedPoint tip, designed to minimize heat build-up and ensure a clean, accurate hole.
The unique step design allows for multiple hole sizes with a single bit, making these bits incredibly versatile and a must-have for metalworking projects.
- Ideal for creating precise holes in a range of sizes
- Comes in a convenient set, eliminating the need to search for different bits
- Comes at a higher cost
Not suitable for users who only occasionally need to drill through metal
Comprehensive Review of Metal Drill Bit Materials
Understanding the materials from which drill bits are made is crucial to selecting the right tool for your project. Drill bit materials vary in hardness and durability, with some designed for softer materials like wood, and others like cobalt and carbide intended for tougher metals.
• High-Speed Steel (HSS): The Standard in Drill Bit Construction
High-Speed Steel (HSS) drill bits are a reliable choice, known for their resilience against excessive heat and wear. These bits can handle general drilling tasks with ease, making them a staple in any metalworking toolkit. However, when the temperature rises too high, they may lose their temper, so keeping the heat down with proper techniques and cooling methods is essential for maintaining their sharpness and longevity.
• Titanium Coated Bits (TiN or TiCN): Enhanced Durability and Performance
Titanium Coated Bits, whether it’s TiN or TiCN, take the cake for enhanced durability and performance when drilling through metal. The surface hardness provided by these coatings significantly reduces corrosion and friction, allowing the bits to operate cooler and last longer. Take note, though, as the coating wears off the cutting edges, you’ll see a decrease in performance. Hence, these are ideal for lighter drilling duties where the premium coating can be preserved as long as possible.
• Cobalt Steel Blends (M35 vs M42): Cutting Through Tough Metals
Choosing the best cobalt drill bits comes down to the steel blend. When cobalt is blended into the steel, such as with M35 or M42 variations, you get bits for metal drilling that are particularly effective against hardened steel and stainless. The M35 steel includes a 5% cobalt blend, while M42 steps it up to 8%, enhancing heat resistance. This composition, paired with an oxide coating, can mean a higher price point, but for those tough metals, these expensive bit sets are well worth the investment.
• TiAlN Coated Bits: For High-Heat Drilling Applications
For those projects where you anticipate high temperatures, TiAlN Coated Bits are your ally. The coating excels in boosting surface hardness while minimizing corrosion and friction. They’re engineered to withstand the stresses of drilling through metal. However, once the coating wears off the cutting edges, their superior performance will diminish, so they’re best used in applications where their heat-resistance can be fully utilized.
Drilling Different Types of Metal: How to Choose the Right Bit
Choosing the right drill bit is crucial for precision and efficiency in metalwork. The type of metal you’re working with dictates the bit you need.
• Cobalt Drill Bits for Hardened Steel: Tips for Smooth Drilling
If you’re working with hardened steel and stainless, cobalt drill bits are best. Opt for M35 cobalt when you need to drill at higher speeds with less heat buildup, or M42 steel blend for even tougher jobs. The cobalt is blended into the steel to create a bit that can handle the rigors of drilling in hardened steel. To enhance your results, start with a pilot hole and use a length drill that allows for steady progress and heat dissipation.
• Titanium and HSS for Regular Steel: Matching Bit to Metal
For regular steel, the best metal drill bit choice often falls between Titanium and High-Speed Steel (HSS) options. Titanium bits offer a harder surface and are less prone to wear, making them suitable for repetitive drilling. HSS bits, while not as hardy as their titanium counterparts, provide flexibility and durability for general metal drilling tasks at a more affordable price point.
• Step Bits and Hole Saws: Specialty Bits for Specific Metal Tasks
For specific tasks like creating large holes in metal and wood, step bits and hole saws are the go-to tools. Step bits are perfect for drilling through thin metals, offering a range of sizes in a single bit. Hole saws feature a cylindrical blade ideal for making large diameter cuts and can be used on a variety of materials, making them incredibly versatile.
Brands We Trust for Reliable Metal Drill Bits
When it comes to metal drill bits, there are trusted retailers that stand out for their quality and reliability.
• Best-Selling Metal Drill Bits on Amazon
Amazon’s best-sellers list is a reliable guide for top-performing bits. The DeWalt DW1361 titanium pilot point set, Bosch CO14B 14-piece cobalt set, and the 21pc titanium nitride coated set are praised for their durability and efficiency in metal drilling tasks, making them favorites among both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
• Premium Selections at Acme Tools
For those seeking top-tier options, Acme Tools offers an array of premium bits. The Helix Cobalt Drill delivers precision drilling in tough materials, while the Milwaukee Shockwave set stands out for its impact resistance. The Duty Red Helix Titanium Drill is another high-performer, known for its long-lasting sharpness and drilling speed.
• Metal Drilling Solutions at Lowe’s
Lowe’s is a reliable source for a variety of metal drilling needs. They carry high-speed steel bits perfect for sheet metal work, along with titanium jobber length twist bits. These options are enhanced with an oxide coating for increased durability, making them a solid choice for both professionals and DIYers.
• Home Depot’s Range of High-Quality Drill Bits
Home Depot offers a range of drill bits with unique flute designs that enhance chip removal, reduce heat, and increase drilling speed. This design innovation is a key factor in achieving clean and precise holes in a variety of metals.
• Bosch Metal Drill Bits: Engineered for Precision
Bosch metal drill bits are engineered with precision in mind, providing clean and accurate holes in various metals. Their robust build quality ensures longevity and performance, making them a favorite among professionals.
• Ryobi Metal Drill Bits: Balancing Quality and Value
Ryobi offers metal drill bits that balance quality and value. Their twist drill and oxide drill bits are designed for durability and efficiency, making them a smart choice for those who need reliable bits without breaking the bank.
• Milwaukee Hole Dozer Carbide Hole Saws: Ultimate Hole Cutting
For those tackling both metal and wood, Milwaukee Hole Dozer Carbide Hole Saws stand out for their robust performance. These hole saws slice through materials with ease, thanks to a carbide construction designed to withstand the rigors of tough applications. Whether you’re cutting precise holes for piping or electrical work, the Milwaukee Hole Dozer lineup provides the durability and precision needed for high-quality workmanship.
Maximizing Lifespan of Drill Bits for The Money
Investing in drill bits with an optimized flute design can significantly enhance their lifespan. This design facilitates efficient chip removal, reducing heat and wear, thus ensuring your bits maintain their cutting edge for longer.
• Identifying Signs of Bit Wear and Replacement Timelines
Regular inspection of your drill bits for signs of wear, such as dull edges or damage to the tip, is crucial. A decrease in performance or increased difficulty in cutting are indicators that it’s time to replace your bits. Adhering to a maintenance schedule based on usage frequency can help in determining replacement timelines to ensure optimal performance.
• Drill Bit Coatings and Their Impact on Drilling Efficiency
Coatings on drill bits, like those used on standard HSS bits, are not just for aesthetics. They can significantly extend the life of your bits. For example, titanium coatings on bits are best suited for drilling soft metals, while coatings designed for cast iron and carbon steels reduce friction and increase durability.
• Pro Techniques for Drilling Stainless Steel
When working with hardened steel and stainless steels, using cutting oil is a game-changer. It serves as a lubricant when drilling, reducing heat and wear on your bits. This is a tip often shared by primary retailers and seasoned professionals alike, enhancing the longevity of your drill bits and ensuring cleaner cuts.
• Best Practices for Drilling Through Hardened Steel
Drilling through hardened steel requires a deliberate approach. Choose the right bit, apply steady pressure, and maintain a low drill speed to prevent overheating. Regularly withdrawing the bit and using cutting oil can help preserve the bit’s sharpness and ensure a smooth drilling process.
The Final Verdict on the Best Drill Bits for Metal
When your project demands precision and durability, your choice in drill bits makes all the difference. For the heavy-duty tasks, especially when using drill presses, HSS drill bits stand up to the challenge, but when heat resistance and longevity take priority, titanium bits step up to the plate.
Twist drills offer the precision required for detailed metalwork, and for those everyday tasks, a reliable titanium set proves to be an economical and efficient choice. When you weigh all these factors, the decision may come down to the specific needs of your project. Remember, your tools are an investment, and selecting the right drill bits will ensure your projects are not only successful but also enjoyable.
I’m Shad, a passionate home improvement and DIY enthusiast hailing from Portland, Oregon. On HomeProjectHub, I share my insights, practical tips, and creative tutorials to empower you in transforming your living spaces.
