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Best Drill Bit To Drill Through Stainless Steel

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

6 min read

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

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

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

★★★★★★4.8

Bit Material:Cobalt alloy steel

Diameter Range:1/16"-1/4"

Tip Geometry:Pilot point tip

Coating Type:Titanium nitride coating

Shank Style:Straight shank

Flute Design:Spiral flutes

Pilot-point design and TiN coating give precise, heat‑resistant drilling of stainless steel, with organized storage for pros.

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Best Value

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"

★★★★★★4.7

Bit Material:M35 cobalt steel

Diameter Range:1/16"-1/4"

Tip Geometry:135° split point

Coating Type:Titanium coating

Shank Style:Straight shank

Flute Design:Twist flutes

135° split‑point starts holes cleanly, titanium coating controls heat, and the case keeps 13 bits tidy.

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Best Premium

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

★★★★★★4.9

Bit Material:M42 cobalt alloy

Diameter Range:1/16"-1/4"

Tip Geometry:Three‑flat tip

Coating Type:TiN coating

Shank Style:Three‑flat shank

Flute Design:Spiral flutes

M42 cobalt bits with three‑flat shank resist wobble, dissipate heat, and dominate toughest alloys in any industrial setting.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit To Drill Through Stainless Steel

Bit Material

Determines hardness and heat resistance; cobalt‑alloy or carbide bits stay sharp longer and withstand the high temperatures generated when drilling stainless steel.

Diameter Range

Specifies the smallest to largest hole size the set can produce; buyers need the range that matches their project’s precise drilling dimensions.

Tip Geometry

Pilot‑point or split‑point designs start holes accurately and reduce wandering, while the 135° angle optimizes cutting action in tough stainless steel.

Coating Type

Surface treatments such as TiN, TiAlN, or black oxide lower friction, extend bit life, and improve chip evacuation when machining corrosive stainless alloys.

Shank Style

Hex, round, or SDS shanks affect tool‑holder compatibility, torque transmission, and wobble reduction, influencing both safety and drilling efficiency.

Flute Design

Number of flutes and helix angle control chip removal and cutting speed; deeper flutes and optimized helix improve performance in dense stainless steel.

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 OVERALL

The DEWALT 14‑piece cobalt set delivers reliable performance when drilling stainless steel. Pilot point tips start holes precisely, while the titanium nitride coating reduces heat and extends life. The straight shank fits most keyless chucks, and the spiral flutes evacuate chips efficiently. Storage case keeps bits organized, making it a solid choice for professional workshops and reliable long‑term service everyday.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓Cobalt alloy steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-1/4"

Tip Geometry

✓Pilot point tip

Coating Type

✓Titanium nitride coating

Shank Style

✓Straight shank

Flute Design

✓Spiral flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Robust pilot point
✓Easy bit removal
✓Clear storage lid
✓Consistent cutting performance

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗Limited bit length options

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by MACXCOIP

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 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 VALUE

The MACXCOIP 13‑piece M35 set offers excellent value for drilling stainless steel and other metals. Its 135° split‑point tip starts holes without wandering, while the titanium coating helps manage heat. Straight shanks fit standard chucks, and twist flutes clear chips quickly. The included case keeps bits tidy, making it a practical choice for hobbyists and light‑duty professionals in everyday projects.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 cobalt steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-1/4"

Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Coating Type

✓Titanium coating

Shank Style

✓Straight shank

Flute Design

✓Twist flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size variety
✓Sharp 135° tip
✓Self‑centering design
✓Comes with storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited length for larger holes
✗Packaging flimsy

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by BOSCH

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.9 / 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 PREMIUM

The BOSCH CO14B set features M42 cobalt alloy bits designed for the toughest stainless steel, cast iron and titanium tasks. Three‑flat tips and shanks provide stability and reduce walk‑off, while TiN coating dissipates heat for long life. Spiral flutes evacuate chips efficiently. Packaged in a sturdy case, this premium collection suits demanding industrial and aerospace applications with confidence daily use.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M42 cobalt alloy

Diameter Range

✓1/16"-1/4"

Tip Geometry

✓Three‑flat tip

Coating Type

✓TiN coating

Shank Style

✓Three‑flat shank

Flute Design

✓Spiral flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Exceptional heat resistance
✓Extended bit life
✓Three‑flat shank reduces wobble
✓Ideal for hard alloys

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher cost
✗Limited to medium lengths

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Metric Cobalt Drill Bits Set 1.5-6.5mm 13PCS, M35 high Speed Steel, high Hardness Straight Shank Drill, Mechanical or Hand Drill for Drilling, Suitable for Stainless Steel, Iron, Copper and Aluminum.

by Metric

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

Metric Cobalt Drill Bits Set 1.5-6.5mm 13PCS, M35 high Speed Steel, high Hardness Straight Shank Drill, Mechanical or Hand Drill for Drilling, Suitable for Stainless Steel, Iron, Copper and Aluminum.

BEST RUNNER UP

The Metric 13‑piece set provides a convenient 1.5‑to‑6.5 mm range for precise drilling in stainless steel, copper and aluminum. Made from M35 cobalt HSS, the bits resist wear and maintain sharpness. Straight shanks fit most drills, while spiral flutes clear debris smoothly. Though uncoated, the set offers solid performance at a budget‑friendly cost for detailed work in everyday machining projects today.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 cobalt HSS

Diameter Range

✓1.5‑6.5 mm

Tip Geometry

✓Standard point

Coating Type

✓None

Shank Style

✓Straight shank

Flute Design

✓Spiral flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Compact metric range
✓High hardness
✓Versatile material use
✓Affordable price

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No surface coating
✗Limited to small diameters

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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.

★★★★★

4.4 / 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 OVERALL

These M35 cobalt bits deliver exceptional durability when drilling stainless steel. The 135° split point starts holes without walking, while the titanium nitride surface reduces friction and heat. The 3‑flat jobber shank fits most drills securely. Precision ground flutes evacuate chips efficiently, extending tool life. Ideal for professional workshops that demand speed and consistent performance and reliable results on each.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16"–1/2"

Tip Geometry

✓135° Split Point

Coating Type

✓Titanium Nitride

Shank Style

✓3‑Flat Jobber Shank

Flute Design

✓Precision Ground Flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Exceptional durability
✓Fast chip evacuation
✓Reduced heat buildup
✓Secure 3‑flat shank

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗No coating for extreme wear

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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.

★★★★★

4.3 / 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 BUDGET

The 99‑piece M35 cobalt set offers a broad size range for stainless steel and hardened alloys. Each bit features a 135° split point that reduces thrust and prevents wandering. Full‑ground flutes enhance chip removal, while the plain shank provides universal compatibility. Robust construction yields up to twelve times longer life than standard HSS, making it a cost‑effective choice for users.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16"–3/8"

Tip Geometry

✓135° Split Point

Coating Type

✓Uncoated

Shank Style

✓Jobber Shank

Flute Design

✓Full‑Ground Flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Broad size range
✓Long tool life
✓Cost‑effective
✓Universal shank

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Storage case bulky

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MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Bits for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics, with Metal Index Storage Box, 1/16"-1/2"

by MACXCOIP

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Bits for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics, with Metal Index Storage Box, 1/16"-1/2"

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

MACXCOIP 29‑piece M35 cobalt collection covers nearly every common diameter for stainless steel drilling. The 135° point tip initiates holes quickly, and the twist design guides the bit straight. Jobber shank fits standard chucks, while the precision ground flutes clear debris efficiently. Versatile performance across metals and plastics makes it suitable for both hobbyists and light industrial tasks in workshops.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16"–1/2"

Tip Geometry

✓135° Point Tip

Coating Type

✓Uncoated

Shank Style

✓Jobber Shank

Flute Design

✓Twist Flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Extensive diameter selection
✓Quick start point
✓Precise ground flutes
✓Versatile material use

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Uncoated bits
✗Case heavy

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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 FOR BEGINNERS

The 13‑piece M35 set provides essential sizes from 1/16" to 1/4" for stainless steel and cast iron applications. A 135° split point reduces entry force, while the jobber shank ensures stable grip. Twist flutes promote rapid chip evacuation, extending bit life. Affordable pricing and reliable durability make it an attractive option for DIY enthusiasts and occasional professionals in home projects.

Key Specifications

Bit Material

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16"–1/4"

Tip Geometry

✓135° Split Point

Coating Type

✓Uncoated

Shank Style

✓Jobber Shank

Flute Design

✓Twist Flutes

Reasons to Buy

✓Affordable set
✓Accurate split point
✓Stable jobber shank
✓Efficient chip removal

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited max size
✗No coating

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When drilling stainless steel, prioritize bits made from cobalt‑based alloys (e.g., M35) or titanium‑coated high‑speed steel, as they retain hardness at high temperatures. Look for a 135° split‑point tip to reduce walking and a fluted design that efficiently evacuates chips. Rigid shank construction, preferably SDS‑plus or hex, minimizes wobble and improves torque transfer.

Budget Recommendations

Entry‑level users can expect solid performance from 5‑piece titanium‑coated sets priced between $30‑$50, suitable for occasional hobby work. Mid‑range professionals often choose cobalt M35 bits, which run $70‑$120 for a comparable set and offer superior heat resistance. For high‑volume or aerospace‑grade applications, premium cobalt or carbide bits cost $150‑$250 but deliver the longest tool life.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid using standard HSS bits; they dull quickly and generate excessive heat, leading to work‑hardening of the steel. Never rely on high RPM alone—use low speeds (under 500 RPM for 1/4"‑1/2" diameters) with steady feed pressure. Skipping proper lubrication, such as cutting oil, will cause rapid wear and may seize the bit in the material.

How We Test Best Drill Bit To Drill Through Stainless Steel

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

Metal fabricators

They regularly need to create precise holes in stainless‑steel components for assemblies and structural parts.

Automotive mechanics

Stainless‑steel exhausts, brackets, and fuel lines require durable bits that can penetrate without dulling.

Home‑improvement DIYers

Renovation projects often involve stainless‑steel countertops, fixtures, or hardware that must be drilled accurately.

Jewelry and watchmakers

Fine stainless‑steel alloys used in accessories need clean, small‑diameter holes that only specialty bits can achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of drill bit is best for drilling stainless steel?

Cobalt‑alloy (often labeled M35 or M42) or solid carbide drill bits are the best choices because they retain hardness at high temperatures and resist the work‑hardening properties of stainless steel.

Why shouldn’t I use regular high‑speed steel (HSS) bits on stainless steel?

Standard HSS bits soften quickly when friction heats the metal, causing rapid wear, dulling, and possible breakage. Stainless steel also work‑hardens, making it even harder on a low‑grade bit.

What drill speed (RPM) and feed rate should I use?

Use a low RPM—typically 300–500 RPM for a ¼‑in (6 mm) bit—and apply a steady, moderate feed pressure. Too high a speed generates excess heat, while too slow a feed can cause the bit to bind and blunt.

Do I need lubrication, and what should I use?

Yes. Apply a cutting fluid or light machine oil (e.g., 3‑in‑1 oil or a dedicated stainless‑steel drill lubricant) continuously to reduce heat, improve chip evacuation, and extend bit life.

How can I prolong the life of my drill bits when working with stainless steel?

Select a cobalt or carbide bit, keep it sharp, use proper speed/feed, lubricate throughout the cut, and periodically withdraw the bit to clear chips. Storing bits in a dry, rust‑free environment and avoiding excessive force also help maintain their performance.