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Best Drill Bits Uk

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bits uk in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like Metric, NewShark, Cobalt, Hex, M35, MACXCOIP 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 bits uk that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

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.

★★★★★★4.8

Material Grade:M35 Cobalt HSS

Size Range:1.5 mm to 6.5 mm

Shank Type:Straight shank

Coating / Finish:No coating

Maximum RPM:Up to 10,000 RPM

Target Materials:Stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminium

M35 cobalt bits deliver unmatched durability and heat resistance, cutting stainless steel and aluminum with precise straight‑shank accuracy.

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Best Value

NewShark M35 HSS,5% Cobalt Metric Drill Bits Set (1mm-10mm/19pcs), Jobber Length Twist Drill Bit Set for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, with Storage Case (Metric)

★★★★★★4.6

Material Grade:M35 Cobalt HSS

Size Range:1 mm to 10 mm

Shank Type:Straight shank

Coating / Finish:No coating

Maximum RPM:Up to 12,000 RPM

Target Materials:Hard metals, stainless steel

19‑piece M35 set offers broad 1‑10 mm range, 5% cobalt strength, and a sturdy case for organized metal drilling.

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Best Premium

Metric 99 Pieces Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set, 135° Tip High Speed Steel, Size from 1.5mm up to 10mm, Ideal Drilling in Wood/Cast Iron/Aluminum Alloy/Plastic/Fiberglass, with Hard Storage

★★★★★★4.8

Material Grade:4241 HSS

Size Range:1.5 mm to 10 mm

Shank Type:Straight shank

Coating / Finish:Titanium coating

Maximum RPM:Up to 8,000 RPM

Target Materials:Wood, cast iron, aluminium, plastic

99‑piece titanium‑coated collection spans 1.5‑10 mm, delivering fast 135° cuts across wood, metal, plastic, and fiberglass.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bits Uk

Material Grade

Indicates the core alloy (e.g., M35 cobalt‑enhanced HSS) which determines wear resistance, strength and ability to cut hard metals without dulling quickly.

Size Range

The smallest to largest diameters offered (e.g., 1.5 mm–6.5 mm) dictates which holes can be made and how versatile the set is for different projects.

Shank Type

Defines the bit’s attachment method—straight, SDS‑plus, hex or reduced shank—affecting compatibility with drills, chuck stability and risk of wobble during use.

Coating / Finish

Surface treatments such as TiN, black oxide or DLC reduce friction, extend life, improve heat dissipation and help maintain sharpness on tough materials.

Maximum RPM

The highest safe rotational speed (often expressed in RPM) ensures the bit can be run at full drill power without overheating or losing accuracy.

Target Materials

Specifies the metals and non‑metals the bit can reliably penetrate—stainless steel, cast iron, copper, aluminium, wood—guiding buyers to the right set for their applications.

by Metric

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 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 OVERALL

The 13‑piece cobalt set delivers outstanding durability for demanding metalwork, cutting through stainless steel, iron, copper and aluminium with minimal heat buildup. Its M35 HSS construction and straight shank ensure accurate positioning, while the 135° tip penetrates quickly. Ideal for professional workshops, the set lacks a protective case and offers a modest size range for future projects and new applications.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt HSS

Size Range

✓1.5 mm to 6.5 mm

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Coating / Finish

✓No coating

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 10,000 RPM

Target Materials

✓Stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminium

Reasons to Buy

✓High wear resistance
✓Excellent heat tolerance
✓Precise straight shank
✓Suitable for multiple metals

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No storage case
✗Limited size range

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by NewShark

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

NewShark M35 HSS,5% Cobalt Metric Drill Bits Set (1mm-10mm/19pcs), Jobber Length Twist Drill Bit Set for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, with Storage Case (Metric)

BEST VALUE

NewShark provides a comprehensive 19‑piece set that covers 1 mm through 10 mm, perfect for drilling hard metals and stainless steel. The M35 cobalt alloy and 135° twist tip reduce friction and heat, delivering clean holes. A sturdy case keeps bits organized, though the lack of coating raises long‑term wear concerns and the cost is slightly elevated for professional use.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt HSS

Size Range

✓1 mm to 10 mm

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Coating / Finish

✓No coating

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 12,000 RPM

Target Materials

✓Hard metals, stainless steel

Reasons to Buy

✓Broad size selection
✓Robust 5% cobalt
✓Precise 135° tip
✓Convenient storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗No coating for extended life

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by Metric

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Metric 99 Pieces Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set, 135° Tip High Speed Steel, Size from 1.5mm up to 10mm, Ideal Drilling in Wood/Cast Iron/Aluminum Alloy/Plastic/Fiberglass, with Hard Storage

BEST PREMIUM

The 99‑piece titanium‑coated set offers an extensive range from 1.5 mm to 10 mm, suitable for wood, cast iron, aluminium, plastic and fiberglass. Its 4241 HSS core paired with a 135° tip cuts quickly while the coating extends life. Storage is convenient, yet the bits lack the extreme hardness of cobalt and are rated for modest spindle speeds in practice.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓4241 HSS

Size Range

✓1.5 mm to 10 mm

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Coating / Finish

✓Titanium coating

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 8,000 RPM

Target Materials

✓Wood, cast iron, aluminium, plastic

Reasons to Buy

✓Large 99‑piece assortment
✓Titanium coating reduces wear
✓Fast 135° tip
✓Organized storage box

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Lower hardness than cobalt
✗Limited RPM rating

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Cobalt Metric Drill bits Set 1.5mm-6.5mm/13PCS High-Speed Steel Drill bit for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Copper, Aluminum Plastic

by Cobalt

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Cobalt Metric Drill bits Set 1.5mm-6.5mm/13PCS High-Speed Steel Drill bit for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Copper, Aluminum Plastic

BEST RUNNER UP

This 13‑piece cobalt set balances performance and price, covering 1.5 mm to 6.5 mm for stainless steel, carbon steel, copper and even wood. The M35 alloy and 135° double‑edge tip deliver fast entry with minimal wobble. Ideal for DIY projects, the bits lack a storage case and should not be used on glass or ceramic surfaces in everyday tasks today.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 Cobalt HSS

Size Range

✓1.5 mm to 6.5 mm

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Coating / Finish

✓No coating

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 11,000 RPM

Target Materials

✓Stainless steel, carbon steel, copper

Reasons to Buy

✓5% cobalt improves hardness
✓Sharp 135° geometry
✓Effective on multiple metals
✓Good value for hobbyists

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective case
✗Not suitable for ceramics

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Hex Shank Cobalt Metric Drill Bit Set 15 PCS (1.5mm-8mm), Quick Change High Speed Steel Impact Driver Hex Drill bits for Metal, Steel, Wood, Plastic, Aluminum Alloy

by Hex

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Hex Shank Cobalt Metric Drill Bit Set 15 PCS (1.5mm-8mm), Quick Change High Speed Steel Impact Driver Hex Drill bits for Metal, Steel, Wood, Plastic, Aluminum Alloy

BEST BUDGET

The set delivers solid performance for metal and wood tasks. Hexagonal shank allows fast bit changes without slipping, while the cobalt alloy resists heat and wear. Fully ground flutes reduce friction and the 135° split point keeps the drill centred. Size range covers most small jobs, though the lack of a price tag may deter budget shoppers from major retailers.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓1.5mm-8mm

Shank Type

✓1/4 hex shank

Coating / Finish

✓fully ground finish

Maximum RPM

✓max 3000 rpm

Target Materials

✓metal wood plastic

Reasons to Buy

✓quick change hex
✓high heat resistance
✓split point stability
✓wide size selection

Reasons Not to Buy

✗no carbide option
✗price not listed

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M35 5% Cobalt Metric Drill Bits Set (1mm-10mm/19pcs), Straight Shank Jobber Drill Bits, Metal HSS Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel Hard Metal and Cast Iron

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 5% Cobalt Metric Drill Bits Set (1mm-10mm/19pcs), Straight Shank Jobber Drill Bits, Metal HSS Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel Hard Metal and Cast Iron

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

These 19 bits combine a 5% cobalt alloy with a gold oxide finish for excellent durability. The 135° split point provides accurate starts and reduces walking, while the round shank fits standard drills. Size options from 1mm to 10mm cover most fastening tasks on stainless steel and hard metals. The set lacks a hex shank, which may inconvenience quick‑change users.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓1mm-10mm

Shank Type

✓round straight shank

Coating / Finish

✓gold oxide coating

Maximum RPM

✓max 3500 rpm

Target Materials

✓stainless steel

Reasons to Buy

✓high hardness rating
✓precise split point
✓comprehensive size range
✓durable plastic case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗no hex shank
✗limited to HSS drills

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Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal (1mm-10mm/19pcs)

by Metric

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal (1mm-10mm/19pcs)

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The M42 set offers an 8% cobalt composition that tolerates extreme heat and allows cutting three to five times faster than standard HSS bits. A 135° split tip and hex shank give grip and precise starts on hard metals and stainless steel. The price is higher and the bits arrive without a protective coating, which some users may find undesirable.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M42 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓1mm-10mm

Shank Type

✓hex shank

Coating / Finish

✓no coating

Maximum RPM

✓max 4000 rpm

Target Materials

✓hard metals

Reasons to Buy

✓very high heat resistance
✓fast cutting speed
✓long tool life
✓suitable for stainless

Reasons Not to Buy

✗higher price point
✗no protective coating

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MACXCOIP Metric 25Pcs M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 1.0mm-13.0mm HSS Cobalt Jobber Drill Bits for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics, with Metal Index Storage Box

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 Metric 25Pcs M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 1.0mm-13.0mm HSS Cobalt Jobber Drill Bits for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics, with Metal Index Storage Box

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The MACXCOIP set offers 25 metric bits from 1mm to 13mm for most DIY and workshop jobs. M35 cobalt steel with gold oxide finish provides strong wear resistance, and the 135° self‑centering tip reduces walk‑off on metal, wood and plastic. Bits use round shanks and fit the included case. They are unsuitable for quenched bolts and lack a hex shank for quick changes.

Key Specifications

Material Grade

✓M35 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓1mm-13mm

Shank Type

✓round jobber shank

Coating / Finish

✓gold oxide finish

Maximum RPM

✓max 3000 rpm

Target Materials

✓metal wood plastic

Reasons to Buy

✓large size selection
✓durable storage case
✓self‑centering tip
✓good for soft and hard

Reasons Not to Buy

✗not for hardened bolts
✗no hex shank

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

Material and coating are the primary determinants of longevity and performance. High‑speed steel (HSS) works well for general purpose, while cobalt‑enhanced or carbide‑tipped bits excel on hardened metals; titanium or TiN coatings reduce friction and heat. Pay attention to shank design—smooth or hex shanks fit most domestic drills, whereas SDS‑plus shanks are required for hammer drills. Tip geometry (split‑point vs. standard) influences start‑up accuracy, and an appropriate size range ensures you can tackle everything from pilot holes to large dowel passages.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY work, a basic 10‑piece HSS set from brands like Bosch or Draper costs £10‑£15 and covers common wood and metal sizes. A mid‑range £15‑£40 kit, often featuring cobalt‑mixed bits with hex shanks and a titanium coating, offers a balance of durability and versatility—ideal for regular home improvement projects. Professionals seeking maximum wear resistance should consider premium sets over £40, such as Makita or DeWalt carbide‑tipped collections, which maintain sharpness even after extensive use.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don’t assume all bits are interchangeable; mismatched shank types can damage both the bit and the drill chuck. Using wood‑only bits on metal or vice‑versa leads to rapid dulling and unsafe operation. Beware of ultra‑cheap, uncoated bits—they may appear affordable but often break or lose edge quickly, increasing long‑term cost. Finally, store bits in a dry, organized case to prevent rust and protect the cutting edges from impact.

How We Test Best Drill Bits Uk

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bits uk 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 bits uk 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 homeowners

They need reliable drill bits for household repairs, furniture assembly, and small renovation projects.

Professional carpenters

High‑precision bits enable efficient drilling of clean holes in timber and engineered wood for cabinetry and framing.

Construction contractors

Durable, fast‑changing bits reduce downtime when drilling into concrete, steel, and mixed‑material sites.

Hobbyist woodworkers

Specialty bits (e.g., brad point, spade) help create detailed joinery and decorative features in personal projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated drill bit brands available in the UK?

The most highly regarded brands in the UK include Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, Irwin, and Milwaukee. These manufacturers consistently receive strong reviews for durability, cutting performance, and range of sizes.

Which type of drill bit is best for drilling into masonry in the UK?

For masonry, use a carbide‑tipped or SDS‑plus hammer drill bit. Carbide tips handle concrete, brick, and stone efficiently, while SDS‑plus bits are designed for use with hammer drills and provide faster, cleaner holes.

How do I choose the right drill bit size for woodwork projects?

Select a bit that matches the diameter of the screw or dowel you intend to use. For general wood drilling, high‑speed steel (HSS) or titanium‑coated bits work well. If you need very smooth holes, consider a brad point (or wood‑specific) bit, which stays centered and reduces splintering.

Are there any UK‑specific safety regulations I should follow when using drill bits?

Yes. Under the UK Health and Safety at Work Act, you must wear appropriate PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves where needed), secure the workpiece, and ensure the drill is switched off before changing bits. Also, check that the drill’s rated voltage matches the power supply and that cords are in good condition.

Do I need a special storage solution for my drill bit set?

A dedicated bit case or magnetic bit holder keeps bits organized, protects the cutting edges, and makes it easy to locate the right size quickly. Many UK retailers sell compact, impact‑rated cases that fit both standard and SDS‑plus bits.