7 best drill bits for metal
Drill bits for metal are essential tools used in metalworking and various industrial applications. They are specifically designed to drill holes into metal surfaces efficiently and accurately. Here's what you should know about drill bits for metal:
Types of Metal Drill Bits:
Jobber Drill Bits: Jobber drill bits are the most common type of drill bit for general-purpose metal drilling. They have a medium-length flute and are suitable for drilling into various metals, including steel, aluminum, and copper. Jobber bits come in a range of sizes to accommodate different hole diameters.
Twist Drill Bits: Twist drill bits are characterized by their helical flute design, which helps in cutting through metal materials. They are versatile and can be used for drilling into both soft and hard metals. Twist drill bits are available in various lengths and diameters.
Material and Coatings:
Metal drill bits are typically made from high-speed steel (HSS) or cobalt steel. Cobalt drill bits are more durable and can withstand higher temperatures, making them suitable for drilling harder metals.
Many metal drill bits are coated with materials like titanium nitride (TiN) or black oxide to increase their durability, reduce friction, and improve heat resistance.
Point Angle:
- The point angle of a metal drill bit is crucial for its performance. Common point angles for metal drill bits are 118 degrees and 135 degrees.A 118-degree point angle is suitable for general-purpose drilling in metals, while a 135-degree angle is often preferred for drilling harder materials.
Coolant or Lubrication:
- When drilling metals, especially harder ones, it's essential to use a coolant or cutting oil to reduce friction and heat. This prolongs the life of the drill bit and ensures cleaner, more precise holes.
Safety Precautions:
Safety gear, such as safety glasses and hearing protection, should be worn when using metal drill bits, as metalworking can produce flying metal chips and loud noise.
Ensure that the workpiece is securely clamped to prevent movement while drilling, which can lead to accidents or imprecise holes.
Proper Technique:
When using metal drill bits, start with a center punch to create a small indentation where you want to drill. This helps the drill bit stay centered.
Use a slow and steady drilling speed, and avoid excessive pressure. Let the drill bit do the cutting to prevent overheating.
Maintenance:
- Keep your metal drill bits sharp by periodically sharpening them using a dedicated drill bit sharpener or a bench grinder.
Drill bits for metal are essential tools for metalworkers, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals alike. By selecting the appropriate type of drill bit, considering the material and coatings, and following proper drilling techniques, you can achieve accurate and clean holes in metal surfaces while prolonging the life of your drill bits.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best drill bits for metal on the market
IRWIN Countersink Drill Bit Set for Metal, 5-Piece (1877793)
Irwin Tools
Product description
The IRWIN Metal Countersink Drill Bit Set features precision ground 82° tips for countersinking most machinable metals, wood, and plastic. Made from industrial grade high-speed steel for increased durability, each countersink has a black oxide coating to resist corrosion and a five-flute design that reduces vibration for smoother drilling and an extended life. Set includes 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", and 3/4" countersinks, and a drawer Case
From the Manufacturer
IRWIN High Speed Steel Countersinks feature a precision-ground 82-degree tip that makes them ideal for countersinking into most machinable metals. They're made from industrial grade high speed steel for increased durability, and they include a black oxide finish for added corrosion resistance. The five flute design reduces vibration for smoother drilling and extended life. Plus, the 1/4" round shank fits all handheld and stationary drills.
- Precision ground 82° tip for countersinking most machinable metals, wood, and plastic
- Made from industrial grade high speed steel for increased durability
- Includes a black oxide finish for added corrosion resistance
- Five-flute design reduces vibration for smoother drilling and extended life
- 1/4" round shank fits all handheld and stationary drills
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the difference between this set, set 1882076 sold at Lowes, and set |
| Answer: | I use them in my 1/4" dewalt impact drill from time to time , especially in tight spots like small 9" or 12" cabinets. No problems so far. |
| Question: | Is this a two step process compared to something like the snappy quick-change 5-pc set which is an all-one process |
| Answer: | All 3 WILL provide more than enough countsink for ALL of your drywall screws to sit below the top of surface. Regardless of whether or not drywall screws are designed for use in wood, anyone who says they haven't is lying. |
| Question: | How do these handle stainless steel? Will they old up or am I better off just buying disposable Harbor freight |
| Answer: | You will need a 3/8-inch plug cutter. |
| Question: | Anybody having issues with slipping? I am just wondering why the round shank and not hex or at least no-slip |
| Answer: | Its made in China. |
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set- 21Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Length for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Metal Indexed Storage Case, 1/16"-3/8"
- 21 PIECES INCLUDED: 1/16", 5/64", 3/32", 7/64", 1/8", 9/64", 5/32", 11/64", 3/16", 13/64", 7/32", 15/64", 1/4", 17/64", 9/32", 19/64", 5/16", 21/64", 11/32", 23/64", 3/8".
- HSS WITH 5% COBALT: Durable, Higher Heat & Abrasion Resistance.
- PRECISE 135°SPLIT POINT & TWIST DESIGN: Prevent walking, clear chips and particles faster.
- PROFESSIONAL & WIDELY USE: M35 Cobalt HSS is more suitable for hardened material. Particularly successful in cutting through hard metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, high temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics and woods, and also can be used for softer materials.
- ORGANIZED HOLDER: Set includes the drill bit holder with size index for easy storage and organizing.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it work for stripped hex screws |
| Answer: | not polypropylene but close (see ASIN # B0032AM0LW) used a set of similar low end router bits, to round over edges, and to cut a dado - no problems with gumming, used a medium feed rate. The "chips" were micro thin slices of the plastic, no sign of burning. |
| Question: | if these are not really meant for, let's say hanging blinds on a steel/metal door, what should I use |
| Answer: | 17702q is 1/4" shank which is 6.35mm. The 17702 is 1/2" shank which is 12.7mm. |
| Question: | What is the warranty on this Comoware cobalt 15pc drillbit set |
| Answer: | You can purchase a bit extension for 1/2 bits either here or at woodworking suppliers like Woodcraft and others. I have been using one for over 10 years with out a problem. DO NOT BUY A CHEAP ONE! It is important to install the extension in the router collar with care. Be sure there is no wobble due to a bent extension or router wear. |
| Question: | How well do these cut through stainless steel. More specifically 3/8 inch thick stainless steel support beams |
| Answer: | I can’t tell you the temperature, but I can tell you that’s plenty warm on the first setting for me, and the battery lasts longer than I need for one treatment. I have a herniated disc that gets sore after skiing. I love the fact that I can walk around wearing it. |
Product features
COMOWARE Cobalt Twist Drill Bit Set-21 Pcs
Specifications:
Material: HSS M35 Cobalt 5%
Angle Point: 135 Degree
Flute Type: Spiral
Shank Type: Straight Shank
Size Included:
1/16", 5/64", 3/32", 7/64", 1/8", 9/64", 5/32", 11/64", 3/16", 13/64", 7/32", 15/64", 1/4", 17/64", 9/32", 19/64", 5/16", 21/64", 11/32", 23/64", 3/8".
M35 Cobalt HSS:
It is more suitable for hardened material,such as stainless steel, cast iron, high temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics.
15 Pieces Cobalt Drill Bit Set M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal Stainless Steel Cast Iron Woodwork Plastic (1/8 Inch)
Product description
15 Pieces cobalt drill bit set M35 high speed steel twist drill bit set for hardened metal stainless steel cast iron woodwork plastic
Great working performance:
This cobalt drill bit set is stable and not easy to break, resistant to higher heat and abrasion, and convenient as working tool. It has 135° split point tip and torsional design, which aims to improve cutting speed and get self-centering ability.
Wide application:
M35 steel twist drills are proper for lithium electric drill, hand electric drill, impact electric drill, for cutting through hard metals, like stainless steel, cast iron, high temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics and woods, also can be applied for soft materials.
Specifications:
Material: M35 high speed steel
Size: as the picture shows
Color: as the picture shows
Package includes:
15 x Cobalt drill bits
Warm notes:
Small parts are included, please keep away from children under 3 years old.
Please allow slight dimension error due to manual measurement.
Please allow slight color difference due to different monitor.
- Quality material: the cobalt drill bit set uses cobalt M35 high speed steel as material, this material is durable, strong and practical, with a long service life, heat and abrasion resistance; The cutting edge of drill bit is hardened and honed, with accurate cutting without shaking
- Creative twist design: metal cobalt drills for hardened steel has 135° split point tip and torsional design to improve cutting speed with self-centering ability; They can avoid walking during work process, while clearing chips and particles more quickly and easily
- Nice features: the 1/8 inch twist drill bits have precise diameter; M35 cobalt drill bits for hardened metal are not easy to break or wear out, so suitable for lithium electric drill, hand electric drill, impact electric drill, etc.
- Various fitness: M35 high speed steel cobalt drill set is greatly suitable for hardened material and hard metals, such as cast iron, high temperature alloy, hard plastics, stainless steel, titanium alloy, woods, etc., also for soft materials
- What you will get: the package contains 15 pieces 1/8 inch cobalt drill bits, sufficient quantity to meet your various needs; Please pay attention to speed, pressure and heat control during drilling
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the length of this drill bit |
| Answer: | The chart on the outside of the box is the best. I was able with a straight edge to cut out the individual bit details and peel the surface off the bulk of the cardboard. I made a new router bit box, and pasted each one of the cut-outs under the appropriate bit.Be careful to keep the bits organised so you know which cut-out one goes with each bit.You may be able to peel off the whole outside layer of the cardboard, and cut it down to printable sizes.A little tear here and there can be fixed with scotch tape, which won't show when printed. |
CO-Z HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers
CO-Z
User questions & answers
| Question: | What are the shank sizes i see 2 different sizes i do not have a 1/2 " drill just |
| Answer: | I guess around 2” or so long |
| Question: | what are the dimensions of the bits? length-wise |
| Answer: | I don't know the answer to that but I would try it. Go slow and use drilling oil. |
| Question: | Can it drill thru 3/16 thick cast alimum |
| Answer: | It should. I'm a mechanic and I've used these to drill out broken exhaust hardware and lug nuts. Key to making it easy and make them last long is not to drill too fast and use a lubricant such as a penetrating lubricant. |
| Question: | Will this drill thru a typical metal bed frame |
| Answer: | We're afraid that we don't have the larger size ones. Thank you. |
Product features
Features of CO-Z Titanium Step Bits
Convenient & Accurate
- Laser-engraved reference marks on each bit offer superb convenience and accuracy, ideal for drilling large and small-diameter holes in metal and plastic. For high-efficient drilling, thickness of sheet metal shall be less than that of each step.
Universal Compatibility
- Compatible with 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 electric drills or bench drills, but only work for sheet metal, aluminum or plastic.
Sleek & Accurate Drilling
- X-type openings design to facilitate the removal of cutting waste when drilling, preventing iron chips or sawdust from scattering and ensuring sleek & accurate drilling.
Lichamp 1/8" HSS Cobalt Drill Bits 10PCS with Three Flute for Hard Metal, Hardened Stainless Steel and Cast Iron
Lichamp
- UNIQUE 3X FLUTE DESIGN - Lichamp three flute patent design drill bit clears chips and particles faster, provide you with more efficient drilling experience.
- 4X LIFESPAN MATERIAL - Made from industrial grade M35 high-speed steel with 5% cobalt provides hardness for wear resistance, withstands max 1100 degreeF.
- MULTIPLE APPLICATION - Ideal for drilling in heavy-duty tough metal, including hard abrasive alloy metal, hardened stainless steel or cast iron.
- SMOOTHLY DRILLING - 135-degree split point tip & twist design increases cutting speed with self-centering and prevents skating starts or walking.
- 1/8" COBALT DRILL BIT - Round straight shanks, include 10 pack 1/8-inch diameter hss drill bit with well organized clear ps case.
Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal (1mm-10mm/19pcs)
STROTON
Product description
Product Advantages:
3 Steps desigh tip starts drilling immediately with less force and eliminates "walking" across the work surface.
Holds up better than generic high-speed steel,Cobalt gives high-speed steel more heat and wear resistance.
This drill bits set is made of Premium Cobalt (80,000 dollars per ton).
The M42 metric cobalt drill bits can cut through Stainless steel and Hard metal,Hard wood, although they can be used for softer materials such as Aluminum,Plastic.
Some Important Tips about drilling stainless steel and hard metal:
Controling the drill speed from 200 to 1000 RPM would make it easier for you to drill holes on stainless steel.
________________________________
Stainless Steel
____________________________
Drill diameter RPM
____________________________
≤5mm 1000~700
____________________________
5-10mm 700~350
____________________________
10-15mm 350~200
________________________________
Add stainless steel tapping oil or engine oil to prevent the stainless steel from overheating and forming a very hard oxide layer.It also works adding some vinegar,soy sauce or water if you don't have engine oil.
- Premium M42 8% Cobalt Steel ,68-70 HRC (Rockwell Hardness Scale) ,Usually Give the Best Heat,Wear and Chip Resistance and Long Tool Life.
- 3 Steps Desigh for Cutting through Stainless Steel,Hard Metals,Aluminum,Plastic.
- This Cobalt Drill Bit is Typically Capable of Running Three to Five Times Faster.Despite the Higher Price,the Cost Per Hole When Using Cobalt Drill Bit Will be the Lowest,Since It Can Produce So Many More Holes.
- The Sufficiently Sharp Bit Edge Can Cut the Metal Material into Long Strips of Iron Chips rather than Slowly Grinding Throng the Material with a Blunt Drill Bit.
- 19Pcs 135 Degree Split Point Drill Bits Includes :1mm(length:3.4cm)\1.5mm\2mm\2.5mm\3mm\3.5mm\4mm\4.5mm\5mm(length:8.5cm)\5.5mm\6mm(length:9cm)\6.5mm\7mm\7.5mm\8mm(length:11.5cm)\8.5mm\9mm\9.5mm\10mm(length:13cm) [DIA 0.5mm Increments] .
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does the larger bits have reduced shanks |
| Answer: | no they pretty much correspond to the size of the bit |
| Question: | Can these drill through a car's trunk without any issues |
| Answer: | I don't know which part of the trunk you're talking about. I used them to drill through solid 10mm round rod. They worked well. |
| Question: | What is the length of these bits |
| Answer: | They are average lengths. The 1mm is 3.4cm and length increase proportionally to the 10mm which is 5.4cm. |
| Question: | Do they work on wood |
| Answer: | They would work on wood but are a little "overkill". These are designed for hard metals. |
amoolo Cobalt Drill Bit Set (13 pcs), M35 HSS Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Metal and Cast Iron,1/16"-1/4"
- 【Combo Set of 13 Sizes】13 most commonly-used sizes (1/16",5/64",3/32",7/64",1/8",9/64",5/32",11/64",3/16",13/64",7/32",15/64",1/4") to satisfy all your needs. This drill bits set fits the majority of power drill currently on the market and come with a portable plastic case for easy storage and organization.
- 【M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel】Industry grade 6542 high speed steel drill bit set, harder than 4241 HSS used in other similar drill bits set. These drill bits also contain 5% Cobalt, which increases wear-resistance and durability.
- 【Fully Ground Process & 135° Split Point】Fully ground spiral groove design clears particles quickly, decreases friction and heat for a faster and cooler drilling performance. 135° split point with straight shank prevents walking and makes drilling precise and faster. No center punch is needed.
- 【Multiple Application】Perfectly suitable for cutting Hard Metal such as Stainless Steel, Steel and Cast Iron as well as Wood, Aluminum Alloy and Other Softer Metals. × NOT for Glass or Ceramic Materials. ×NOT for High Carbon Steel and Heat-Treated Steel. √ Pay attention to speed, pressure and heat control during drilling.
- 【90 Days Warranty】If you are not fully satisfied for any reason, please contact us for 100% refund or replacement.
User questions & answers
| Question: | I received my order and the bits are silver the add color is gold normal for metal bits , did I get the wrong thing |
| Answer: | Yes, it does come with the mouse and keyboard. It does NOT come with the little wheel that you set on the display to pop up an on-screen menu. |
| Question: | will these work with my rotary tool dremel? all the bits for my dremel say |
| Answer: | No. |
| Question: | Will these bits drill through stone |
| Answer: | Yes , Try USB to HDMI Adapter, USB 3.0 to HDMI Cable Multi-Display |
| Question: | would these bits drill a hole in stainless steel |
| Answer: | Yes, storage is the only DIY upgrade available. There are two slots--NVMe SSD and a 2.5 Sata Drive. |
Product features
Hard & Durable
This drill bit contains 5% Cobalt (M35 Cobalt HSS), which increases the strength, the tool life and makes it more heat-resistant. Rockwell Hardness >= 67
Precise Performance
135°Split Point with straight shank prevents walking and makes drilling precise
Fast Particles Removing
Fully Ground spiral groove design clears particles quickly, decreases friction and heat for a faster and cooler drilling performance
Portable & Easy To Store
Pocket size twist drill bit set is easy to store in a toolbox or in pocket
Be Vertical
- Keep the drill bits vertical to the object when drilling
- Be sure to make both bit and work piece stable. Tilted bit is prone to break
Control Speed and Pressure
- When using bits with a power drill, it's recommended to use them with low speed and drilling pressure
- The thicker the bits is, the slower speed and pressure should be taken
Stay Cool
- Friction will accumulate heat between bits and work piece.
- Be aware of the heat, add water or coolant if necessary.
Right Drilling Device
- To avoid breaking, 1/16” and smaller bits are suggested to be used with a pin vise
- Thick metals are recommended to be drilled with drill press, which is more stable, and adjustable
- To have the best performance, you shouldn't drill deeper than 1/2 of the drill bits' fluting length
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