Choosing the best drill bits for steel can improve your work quality and tool life. Steel is tough, so using the right drill bit matters a lot.
Drilling into steel requires strong, durable bits that resist heat and wear. Many drill bits claim to work well on metal, but only a few handle steel effectively. Titanium-coated, cobalt, and high-speed steel bits often perform best. These bits cut through steel smoothly and last longer than standard bits.
This guide covers top drill bit sets designed for steel, including options from DEWALT, BOSCH, and more. Whether you need bits for stainless steel, cast iron, or hardened metals, this list helps you find reliable tools. Using the right drill bit saves time, reduces damage, and makes your drilling projects easier and safer.
Dewalt Drill Bit Set

The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece (DW1361) is ideal for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts who require a reliable and durable drill bit set for various drilling tasks. If you need precision, long-lasting performance, and versatility in drilling through metal, wood, and plastic, this set is designed for you.
Pros:
- Titanium Nitride Coating enhances durability and extends bit life.
- Pilot Point Design ensures clean, accurate starts and reduces bit walking.
- Includes 21 pieces covering a wide range of sizes for versatile applications.
- Lightweight and compact for easy handling and storage.
- Suitable for use with most handheld drills and drill presses.
Cons:
- Titanium coating may wear off with heavy use on hard materials.
- Not designed for drilling into masonry or concrete.
- The case may not be as robust for heavy-duty transport.
The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set offers a combination of strength and precision thanks to its titanium nitride coating, which significantly reduces wear and increases the lifespan of each drill bit. This coating also reduces friction, allowing for faster drilling and less heat buildup. The pilot point design is especially beneficial as it helps to start holes accurately without slipping, making it easier to achieve clean, precise holes every time.
With 21 different sizes included, users can handle a variety of projects without needing multiple sets. The lightweight and compact design of the set enhances portability, making it a convenient choice for professionals working on-site or hobbyists working in smaller spaces. Whether drilling into wood, metal, or plastic, this set delivers consistent performance and reliability, making it a valuable addition to any toolbox.
Bosch Co14b 14-piece Assorted Set

The BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set is ideal for professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts who require high-performance drill bits for tough materials. If you frequently work with stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, or light-gauge metals, this set offers precision and durability to meet your demanding drilling needs. Buyers looking for a reliable, versatile, and well-organized drill bit set will find this product especially useful.
Pros:
- Includes 14 assorted cobalt M42 metal drill bits designed for superior strength and heat resistance.
- Three-flat shank design ensures secure grip and prevents slipping in the drill chuck.
- Comes with a convenient storage case for easy organization and portability.
- Durable construction suitable for drilling in stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and other metals.
- Lightweight set (1.0 pounds) enhances ease of handling and transport.
Cons:
- Dimensions of the bits are not specified, which may require additional checking for specific drill size needs.
- Solid black color may show wear and scratches more visibly over time.
The BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set features cobalt M42 metal drill bits that excel in durability and heat resistance, making them perfect for challenging drilling applications. Their ability to cut through hard metals like stainless steel and titanium means users experience less bit wear and longer tool life, reducing the frequency of replacements. The three-flat shank design provides a secure fit in the drill chuck, minimizing slippage and enhancing precision during use.
Additionally, the included case keeps the bits organized and protected, allowing users to quickly find the right size and maintain their tools in optimal condition. The set’s lightweight nature ensures that professionals and hobbyists alike can carry and use the drill bits comfortably, whether on a job site or in a home workshop. Overall, this Bosch drill bit set combines robust construction with thoughtful design elements to deliver reliable performance for metal drilling tasks.
Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set

The Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set is ideal for professionals and DIY enthusiasts who frequently work with hardened metal and stainless steel. If you need a reliable, durable, and comprehensive drill bit collection for precision drilling in tough materials, this set is perfect for you.
Pros:
- Includes 99 high-speed steel (M35) twist jobber bits ranging from 1/16″ to 3/8″ for versatile drilling needs.
- Crafted from cobalt steel, ensuring excellent durability and heat resistance for prolonged use on hardened metals.
- Comes with a plastic index storage case for easy organization and transport.
- Compact dimensions (1.4″ H x 7.7″ W x 7.9″ L) make it convenient to store and carry.
Cons:
- The set may be overwhelming for casual users due to the large number of bits included.
- Plastic storage case, while handy, may not be as rugged as metal cases in heavy-duty environments.
The Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set is engineered with high-speed steel enhanced with cobalt, which significantly improves the bits’ hardness and wear resistance. This makes the set particularly effective for drilling through tough materials like hardened metal and stainless steel without frequent dulling. The broad range of sizes ensures users can tackle various projects without needing additional drill bits, saving time and money.
Additionally, the included plastic index storage case keeps all 99 pieces neatly organized and easily accessible, reducing the risk of losing individual bits. This thoughtful design benefits both professionals who require quick bit changes on job sites and hobbyists seeking a tidy workspace. Overall, this set delivers excellent performance, durability, and convenience for anyone working with challenging metal materials.
Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set

The Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set is ideal for professionals and DIY enthusiasts who frequently work with hardened metal and stainless steel. If you need a reliable, durable, and efficient drill bit set to handle tough materials without frequent replacements, this set is designed for you. Whether you’re in construction, metalworking, or automotive repair, these bits will enhance your drilling performance.
Pros:
- Includes 21 pieces ranging from 1/16″ to 1/2″ sizes for versatility
- Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coating increases heat resistance and durability
- Three-flute design ensures faster chip removal and smoother drilling
- Made with M35 cobalt steel for enhanced strength and wear resistance
- Suitable for drilling hardened metal and stainless steel
Cons:
- Black coating may wear off after extensive heavy use
- Not ideal for softer materials as it may cause over-drilling
The Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set features a robust construction with high-grade cobalt steel, making it perfect for demanding drilling tasks. The TiAlN coating significantly reduces heat buildup during operation, which extends the bit’s lifespan and maintains sharpness. Additionally, the three-flute design allows for efficient chip evacuation, reducing clogging and improving drilling speed and precision.
With a wide range of sizes from 1/16″ to 1/2″, this set offers flexibility to tackle various hole diameters with ease. The black finish not only provides a sleek appearance but also adds a layer of corrosion resistance. Overall, this drill bit set is a valuable investment for anyone needing reliable performance on tough metals, ensuring both durability and efficiency in their projects.
Cobalt Drill Bit Set

The Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20 Piece (1/16″-1/2″) is ideal for professional tradespeople, metalworkers, and serious DIY enthusiasts who require reliable and durable drill bits for tough materials. If you often work with steel, hardened metal, cast iron, or alloys, this set is designed to meet your needs with precision and efficiency.
Pros:
- Includes 20 high-quality M35 cobalt metal drill bits with sizes ranging from 1/16″ to 1/2″
- TiN coating ensures longer bit life and reduced heat buildup during drilling
- 125° split point design offers accurate, easy starts and reduces bit walking
- 3-flute design enhances chip removal and drilling speed
- 3-flat shank provides better grip and prevents slipping in the drill chuck
- Comes with a sturdy indexed storage case for organized and secure bit storage
Cons:
- May be overkill for casual users drilling only soft materials like wood or plastic
- The set focuses on metal drilling and might not include bits for other materials like masonry
The Cobalt Drill Bit Set stands out due to its robust construction using M35 cobalt steel, which offers exceptional hardness and heat resistance. This makes the bits well-suited for drilling into tough metals without dulling quickly, saving time and money on replacements. The TiN coating further enhances durability by reducing friction and heat buildup, allowing for smoother drilling performance over extended use.
Additionally, the 125° split point design improves precision by minimizing bit walking at the start, resulting in cleaner holes and less effort. The 3-flute geometry efficiently clears metal chips from the hole, increasing drilling speed and preventing clogging. Lastly, the included indexed storage case keeps your drill bits organized and easily accessible, making it a convenient choice for both job sites and workshops.
Dewalt Drill Bit Set

The DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank, 14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, professional contractors, and hobbyists who require a reliable and versatile drill bit set for working with plastic, wood, and metal. If you are looking for a durable and efficient drill bit set that can handle various materials with precision, this set is designed to meet your needs.
Pros:
- Includes 14 pieces with a variety of sizes for multiple applications
- 135 degree split point design reduces walking and ensures accurate starts
- 3-Flats shank provides better grip and prevents slipping in the chuck
- Suitable for drilling into plastic, wood, and metal
- Durable build quality from the trusted DEWALT brand
Cons:
- Set may not include very large or specialty drill bits
- Some users may require additional sizes for specific tasks
The DEWALT Drill Bit Set features a 3-flats shank design which enhances grip stability in the drill chuck, preventing slipping during use. This design improves drilling precision and safety, making it easier for users to control the drill bit when working on different materials. The 135-degree split point tip is engineered to reduce walking on surfaces, allowing for more accurate drilling starts and cleaner holes. This feature is especially beneficial when working on delicate materials like plastic or hardwoods.
With its 14-piece assortment, this set provides a wide range of sizes suitable for various drilling needs. Whether you are installing fixtures, assembling furniture, or conducting metalwork, the set is versatile enough to handle these tasks efficiently. The high-quality construction from DEWALT ensures long-lasting performance, making this drill bit set a valuable addition to any toolkit for both professionals and DIY users alike.
Macxcoip Cobalt Drill Bit Set

The MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set is ideal for professional tradespeople, DIY enthusiasts, and metalworkers who require a durable and versatile drilling solution. If you often work with hardened metals, stainless steel, cast iron, or even wooden plastics, this set offers the precision and strength needed to get the job done efficiently.
Pros:
- Includes 29 high-speed steel bits made from M35 cobalt for enhanced durability and heat resistance.
- Wide size range from 1/16″ to 1/2″ to accommodate various drilling needs.
- Comes with a sturdy metal index storage box for easy organization and portability.
- Designed specifically for use on hardened metals, stainless steel, cast iron, and wooden plastics, providing versatility.
- Compact dimensions (4.33″ height, 6.3″ width, 15.35″ length) make it easy to store and carry.
Cons:
- May require frequent sharpening with heavy use on extremely hard materials.
- Not suitable for drilling glass or ceramic materials.
The MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set stands out due to its high-quality M35 cobalt steel construction, which offers superior resistance to heat and wear. This means users can drill through tough metals without worrying about bit degradation or breakage, ensuring longer-lasting performance. The comprehensive size range allows for flexibility in various projects, from small precision holes to larger diameter drilling tasks.
Another key benefit is the inclusion of a robust metal index storage box, which keeps all 29 pieces well organized and readily accessible. This thoughtful design feature enhances convenience, especially for professionals who need to transport their tools between job sites. Overall, this drill bit set combines durability, versatility, and practical storage to meet the demands of both industrial and home workshop environments.
Drill America Kfd29j-pc 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set

The Drill America KFD29J-PC 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, professional contractors, and hobbyists who require a versatile and durable drill bit collection for various drilling tasks. Those looking for a reliable set that covers a wide range of sizes from 1/16″ to 1/2″ in 64ths will find this kit especially useful. Its robust design and handy round case make it suitable for both home and workshop use.
Pros:
- Includes 29 high speed steel drill bits for a variety of drilling needs
- Durable black and gold finish enhances bit longevity and corrosion resistance
- Compact and organized round case for easy storage and portability
- Wide size range from 1/16″ to 1/2″ in 64ths, offering great versatility
- Heavy duty construction suitable for metal, wood, and plastic drilling
Cons:
- Does not include drill bits larger than 1/2″
- Case may be too small for users who prefer more extensive bit storage
- Some users may find high speed steel less suitable for extremely hard materials compared to carbide bits
The KFD29J-PC Drill Bit Set stands out due to its comprehensive range of sizes and the use of high speed steel (HSS), which ensures excellent cutting performance and durability. The black and gold finish not only adds a professional look but also provides enhanced resistance against wear and corrosion, extending the lifespan of each bit. This makes it a dependable choice for frequent use in various materials including wood, metal, and plastic.
Its compact round case ensures that all 29 pieces are securely held and easily accessible, making it convenient to carry the set to job sites or store it neatly in a workshop. The precision-ground bits offer smooth drilling with minimal effort, allowing users to achieve clean, accurate holes. Overall, this set balances versatility, durability, and portability, making it a valuable addition to any tool collection.
Toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set For Metal And Steel

The toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro) is ideal for professional tradesmen, metalworkers, and DIY enthusiasts who require durable and high-performance drill bits for tough materials like hardened metal and stainless steel. If you frequently work with metals and need a reliable set that offers precision and long-lasting sharpness, this drill bit set is designed for you.
Pros:
- 21-piece set covering sizes from 1/16″ to 1/2″ for versatile drilling needs
- Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coating enhances durability and heat resistance
- Bullet point tip ensures easy and accurate starts on hard materials
- Designed specifically for hardened metal and stainless steel
- Dark blue color for easy identification
Cons:
- May be more expensive compared to standard drill bit sets
- Not ideal for drilling softer materials like wood or plastic
The toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set features a robust TiAlN coating that significantly improves wear resistance and extends the life of each bit, making it perfect for heavy-duty use. The bullet point tip design offers precision drilling by minimizing bit walking, which is especially beneficial when working on challenging surfaces like stainless steel or other hardened metals. This ensures clean, accurate holes with minimal effort.
Moreover, the wide range of sizes included in the 21-piece set allows users to tackle various projects without needing additional bits. The dark blue finish not only looks professional but also helps users quickly identify the bits in their toolbox. Overall, this drill bit set combines durability, precision, and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any metalworking toolkit.
Ironant Step Drill Bits

The IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, professional metalworkers, and anyone needing precise drilling in various metal materials. If you frequently work with metals like aluminum, steel, or other alloys and require a versatile, durable drilling solution, this set is designed for you. It offers a wide range of sizes, making it perfect for projects that demand accuracy and efficiency.
Pros:
- Made from high-speed steel (HSS) with a titanium coating for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance.
- Includes 50 sizes in 5 step bits, offering versatility for different hole diameters.
- Comes with a sturdy aluminum case for organized storage and easy portability.
- Designed to drill through various metals including aluminum, stainless steel, and other alloys efficiently.
- Lightweight design (1.0 pounds) making it easy to handle and maneuver during use.
Cons:
- May require a power drill with sufficient torque for optimal performance on harder metals.
- Step drill bits can sometimes produce rougher edges compared to standard drill bits, requiring deburring.
The IRONANT Step Drill Bit Set features high-speed steel construction with a titanium coating that significantly extends the life of each bit by reducing wear and tear. This makes it an excellent investment for those who want a reliable tool that withstands frequent use. The multiple step sizes incorporated into each bit provide the convenience of drilling various hole diameters without switching bits, saving time and increasing productivity.
Additionally, the included aluminum case ensures that the bits are protected and easily accessible, which is particularly beneficial for professionals who transport their tools to different job sites. The lightweight yet robust design allows for comfortable handling, reducing user fatigue during extended drilling tasks. Overall, this set combines durability, versatility, and convenience, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit focused on metalworking projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Drill Bits Work Best For Steel Drilling?
Cobalt and titanium nitride coated drill bits work best for steel. They offer durability and heat resistance for smooth drilling.
How To Choose Drill Bits For Hardened Steel?
Select M35 cobalt or titanium aluminum nitride coated bits. These resist heat and stay sharp on hardened steel surfaces.
Are Split Point Drill Bits Good For Steel?
Yes, 125° or 135° split point bits reduce walking. They provide precise and clean holes in steel materials.
What Sizes Are Ideal For Steel Drill Bit Sets?
Sets ranging from 1/16″ to 1/2″ cover most steel drilling needs. This range fits various hole sizes and applications.
Why Use Three-flute Drill Bits On Stainless Steel?
Three-flute design improves chip removal and reduces heat. This ensures efficient drilling and longer bit life in stainless steel.
Can Titanium Coated Bits Drill Hardened Metal?
Titanium nitride coated bits can handle mild hardened metals. For tougher metals, cobalt or titanium aluminum nitride coated bits are better choices.
Conclusion
Choosing the right drill bit for steel is key for smooth and accurate drilling. The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Set offers durability and sharpness for tough jobs. BOSCH’s Cobalt M42 bits handle stainless steel and cast iron with ease. Sinyeenglon and Crosstar provide large sets with high-speed steel and cobalt options, giving versatility for many projects.
MACXCOIP and Drill America sets are great for heavy-duty drilling and long-lasting performance. The step drill bits from IRONANT add convenience for drilling different hole sizes. Each set has unique features to fit your needs. Remember to pick bits that match your steel type and drill speed.
Proper bit choice saves time and prevents damage. Use quality bits to get clean holes and better results. With the right drill bits, your steel projects will be easier and more successful every time.