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Best 1 8 Drill Bit

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

6 min read

Looking for the best 1 8 drill bit in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like RCINDUS, Bosch, Drill, Narwhal, amoolo, 1/8, 1/8-Inch, DEWALT and compared them on the things that matter most: build quality, comfort, ease of use, durability, and overall value. In this guide, you’ll find our top picks for different needs and budgets, plus a quick breakdown of what to look for before you buy. If you want a 1 8 drill bit that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8" Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

★★★★★★4.8

Material Grade:M35 cobalt

Coating Type:Uncoated

Shank Design:Straight shank

Tip Angle:135° tip

Flute/Point Type:Split point

Length (Overall/Flute):2.5 in overall

20‑piece RCINDUS 1/8" cobalt set drills steel, stainless, and cast iron with heat‑resistant M35 durability.

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Best Value

Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

★★★★★★4.7

Material Grade:M42 cobalt

Coating Type:Uncoated

Shank Design:Straight shank

Tip Angle:135° tip

Flute/Point Type:Standard point

Length (Overall/Flute):2.75 in overall

Bosch CO2135B M42 cobalt bit delivers ten‑times HSS life, excelling in stainless, cast iron, and titanium.

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Best Premium

Drill America - KFD1/8P12 1/8" High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

★★★★★★4.8

Material Grade:HSS

Coating Type:Black oxide

Shank Design:Straight shank

Tip Angle:135° tip

Flute/Point Type:Split point

Length (Overall/Flute):2.5 in overall

Drill America KFD 1/8" HSS split‑point bit offers wood and metal versatility with black‑oxide protection.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For 1 8 Drill Bit

Material Grade

Determines hardness and wear resistance; cobalt (M35) or high‑speed steel (HSS) bits last longer on tough metals.

Coating Type

Surface treatments like TiN or black oxide reduce friction, lower heat, and extend bit life, especially in stainless steel.

Shank Design

Straight, hex, or SDS shanks affect chuck compatibility and torque transmission; a robust shank minimizes wobble.

Tip Angle

Common 118° or 135° angles influence start‑up pressure and chip evacuation; larger angles excel in harder materials.

Flute/Point Type

Split‑point, spiral, or carbide‑tipped flutes control chip removal and reduce walking on wood or plastic.

Length (Overall/Flute)

Longer bits reach deeper holes but may flex; buyers match length to material thickness and required penetration depth.

by RCINDUS

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8" Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

BEST OVERALL

The RCINDUS 1/8 inch cobalt set offers solid performance on steel, stainless and cast iron. M35 material provides good hardness while the split-point tip prevents walking. The 20-piece bulk pack is convenient for repeated jobs. Lack of coating may reduce lifespan on abrasive alloys, and the short overall length limits deep drilling for professional use.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 cobalt

Coating Type

✓Uncoated

Shank Design

✓Straight shank

Tip Angle

✓135° tip

Flute/Point Type

✓Split point

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.5 in overall

Reasons to Buy

✓Durable in steel
✓Handles stainless
✓Resists heat
✓Bulk 20 pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No coating
✗Limited length

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by Bosch

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

BEST VALUE

Bosch CO2135B delivers an M42 cobalt bit that excels in drilling stainless steel, cast iron and titanium. The 8% cobalt alloy promises ten times the life of HSS. Its straight shank fits most drills and the 2‑3/4 inch length provides reach. Absence of coating may cause faster wear on abrasive materials, and the price is steeper than basic sets overall.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M42 cobalt

Coating Type

✓Uncoated

Shank Design

✓Straight shank

Tip Angle

✓135° tip

Flute/Point Type

✓Standard point

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.75 in overall

Reasons to Buy

✓High heat resistance
✓10x life vs standard
✓Excellent for stainless
✓Jobber length versatility

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Higher cost than HSS

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by Drill

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Drill America - KFD1/8P12 1/8" High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

BEST PREMIUM

The Drill America KFD 1/8 inch HSS bit works well in wood, metal and stainless tasks. Black oxide coating gives basic corrosion resistance and the 135° split‑point tip stops walking. Straight shank fits standard drills and the 2.5 inch length handles typical shallow holes. Absence of cobalt lowers performance on very hard alloys, and the short length limits deep drilling.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓HSS

Coating Type

✓Black oxide

Shank Design

✓Straight shank

Tip Angle

✓135° tip

Flute/Point Type

✓Split point

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.5 in overall

Reasons to Buy

✓Good for wood and metal
✓Durable hardness
✓Prevents walking
✓Affordable 12-pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No cobalt for hard steel
✗Short length limits depth

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Narwhal 1/8 Inch Cobalt Drill Bits (13 Pack - Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt) 2.55" Length & 135 Degree Split Point for Drilling Into Metal, Hardened & Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, & More!

by Narwhal

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Narwhal 1/8 Inch Cobalt Drill Bits (13 Pack - Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt) 2.55" Length & 135 Degree Split Point for Drilling Into Metal, Hardened & Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, & More!

BEST RUNNER UP

Narwhal 1/8 inch M35 cobalt bits give strength for drilling hardened steel, stainless, cast iron and tough plastics. The ground 135° split‑point ensures entry and reduces walk. Straight shank fits drill chucks and the 2.55 inch length provides reach. Case keeps bits organized. Lack of coating may shorten life under abrasive conditions, and each bit costs more than HSS options.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 cobalt

Coating Type

✓Uncoated

Shank Design

✓Straight shank

Tip Angle

✓135° tip

Flute/Point Type

✓Split point

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.55 in overall

Reasons to Buy

✓Industrial grade durability
✓Precise 135° point
✓Comes with storage case
✓Good for hardened steel

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Higher price per bit

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amoolo 1/8 Hex Shank Drill Bits, 10Pcs Titanium HSS Twist Impact Drill Bit Set for Metal, Steel, Wood, Plastic, Quick Change Design

by amoolo

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

amoolo 1/8 Hex Shank Drill Bits, 10Pcs Titanium HSS Twist Impact Drill Bit Set for Metal, Steel, Wood, Plastic, Quick Change Design

BEST BUDGET

The amoolo 1/8 hex shank set offers reliable performance on metal, wood and plastic. The titanium nitride coating extends life while the integrated pin connection prevents breakage. Straight flutes and a 135° split point reduce chatter and walking. Ten bits fit most 1/4" hex tools, making bit swaps fast. Ideal for hobbyists seeking durability and reliable results on duty tasks.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓Titanium HSS

Coating Type

✓Titanium Nitride

Shank Design

✓1/4" Hex Shank

Tip Angle

✓135° Split Point

Flute/Point Type

✓Straight Flutes

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.5" Overall 1" Flute

Reasons to Buy

✓Quick change design
✓Reduced wobble and chatter
✓Impact driver compatible
✓Durable titanium coating

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited bit length
✗No storage case

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1/8 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite - 1/8" Diameter & Total Length of 2-3/4" with Working Length of 1-1/4" Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum

by 1/8

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

1/8 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite - 1/8" Diameter & Total Length of 2-3/4" with Working Length of 1-1/4" Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The 1/8 inch M35 cobalt set excels in drilling hardened steel and stainless applications. A titanium aluminum nitride coating adds oxidation resistance while the 135° split point prevents walking. Rounded 1/2" shank fits most drills and the straight flutes evacuate chips efficiently. Three bits with a plastic case offer a compact solution for precision work in demanding workshop environments daily.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt

Coating Type

✓Titanium Aluminum Nitride

Shank Design

✓1/2" Rounded Shank

Tip Angle

✓135° Split Point

Flute/Point Type

✓Straight Flutes

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.75" Overall 1.25" Flute

Reasons to Buy

✓Excellent for hardened steel
✓Oxidation resistant coating
✓Precise 135° point
✓Includes plastic storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Short flute for deep holes
✗Higher price per set
✗Only three bits included

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1/8-Inch Cobalt Steel M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Pack of 12

by 1/8-Inch

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

1/8-Inch Cobalt Steel M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Pack of 12

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The 1/8" M35 cobalt jobber bits provide superior heat resistance for drilling hard metals and stainless steel. Their uncoated steel retains full hardness, allowing repeated sharpening without loss of edge. A 135° split point reduces walking, while straight flutes clear chips efficiently. The 2.75" overall length and 12‑piece pack suit professional workshops demanding durability in daily production and repair tasks.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt

Coating Type

✓Uncoated

Shank Design

✓Straight Shank

Tip Angle

✓135° Split Point

Flute/Point Type

✓Straight Flutes

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.75" Overall 1.625" Flute

Reasons to Buy

✓High heat resistance
✓Re‑sharpenable repeatedly
✓Jobber length versatility
✓Pack of twelve bits

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Uncoated may wear faster on soft material
✗No protective case provided

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DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1/8", 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T)

by DEWALT

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1/8", 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T)

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The DEWALT 1/8" set delivers consistent starts thanks to its pilot point design, eliminating walk on the workpiece. Titanium nitride coating on high speed steel ensures long life, while the tapered core adds strength. Optimized flutes provide rapid chip removal. Two bits cover common sizes, making this a reliable choice for precision drilling tasks in both home and professional settings.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓High Speed Steel

Coating Type

✓Titanium Nitride

Shank Design

✓Tapered Core

Tip Angle

✓118° Pilot Point

Flute/Point Type

✓Optimized Flutes

Length (Overall/Flute)

✓2.5" Overall 1" Flute

Reasons to Buy

✓No walk start
✓Durable titanium nitride coating
✓Quick chip extraction
✓Compact two‑piece set

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to two sizes
✗Price higher than basic sets

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a 1/8‑inch drill bit, the material and coating are paramount. High‑speed steel (HSS) is adequate for wood and soft metals, while cobalt‑alloy or carbide tips excel in stainless steel and hardened alloys. A titanium nitride (TiN) or black oxide coating reduces friction and extends life. Pay attention to the shank type—hex, round, or SDS—ensuring compatibility with your chuck, and choose a length that provides sufficient reach without sacrificing rigidity. A 118° split‑point tip offers smoother entry and reduces walking, while tight tolerances guarantee concentric holes.

Budget Recommendations

For hobbyists, reputable budget options under $10 (e.g., DEWALT or Irwin HSS bits) deliver reliable performance on wood and light metal work. Mid‑range selections between $10 and $20, such as Bosch cobalt‑alloy or Makita TiN‑coated bits, balance durability and cost for occasional metal drilling. Professional‑grade choices above $20—like Milwaukee carbide‑tipped or specialized carbide‑core bits—provide maximum wear resistance and precision for frequent, heavy‑duty applications.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid mismatching the shank size with your chuck; a loose fit leads to wobble and inaccurate holes. Selecting an HSS bit for hardened steel often results in rapid dulling or breakage—opt for cobalt or carbide instead. Skipping proper lubrication when drilling metal generates excess heat, shortening bit life. Lastly, purchasing ultra‑cheap, unbranded bits may save money upfront but frequently suffer from poor straightness and low tensile strength, causing costly downtime.

How We Test Best 1 8 Drill Bit

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating 1 8 drill bit across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with 1 8 drill bit and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

DIY home renovators

A 1/8" drill bit is perfect for creating precise pilot holes in trim, cabinetry, and small hardware installations.

Electronics hobbyists

It allows clean, accurate holes for mounting circuit boards, switches, and connectors without damaging delicate components.

Model builders and hobbyists

The small diameter is ideal for drilling fine detail work in plastic, wood, or metal model parts.

Automotive technicians (quick repairs)

Useful for tapping tiny fasteners, sensor mounts, or creating pilot holes in tight engine bay spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What material should I look for in the best 1/8" drill bit?

High‑speed steel (HSS) is the most common and versatile choice for a 1/8" bit, but for tougher materials consider cobalt‑alloy or carbide‑tipped bits. Titanium or black oxide coatings can also extend life by reducing friction.

Which brands are consistently rated as the best for 1/8" drill bits?

The top‑rated brands include DEWALT, Irwin (Speed Tip), Bosch, Makita, and Milwaukee. These manufacturers offer precise tolerances, durable coatings, and reliable performance across wood, metal, and plastic.

Can I use a 1/8" drill bit for both wood and metal?

Yes, a high‑speed steel 1/8" bit works well in wood, plastic, and most metals (including steel, aluminum, and brass) at appropriate speeds. For hard metals, reduce RPM and consider a cobalt‑alloy or carbide‑tipped variant for longer life.

What RPM (speed) should I set on my drill when using a 1/8" bit?

For wood and plastics, 2,500–3,000 RPM is typical. For metal, lower the speed to 500–1,500 RPM depending on the material hardness. Always start slower and increase only if the bit cuts cleanly without excessive heat.

How do I maintain and extend the life of a 1/8" drill bit?

Keep the bit sharp by regularly deburring and using a bit sharpener when edge wear appears. Apply cutting oil or lubricant for metal work, avoid excessive pressure, and store bits in a dry case to prevent rust.