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

Stainless Steel Best Drill Bit

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best stainless steel best drill bit in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like MACXCOIP, BOSCH, NordWolf, Crosstar, 13pcs, STROTON, toolant, 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 stainless steel best drill bit 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

Material / Alloy:M35 Cobalt Steel

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

Point Angle:135 Degree

Shank Type:Jobber Length Shank

Coating / Finish:Plain Finish

Maximum RPM:Up to 6000 RPM

13‑piece M35 cobalt set delivers precise, heat‑resistant drilling across metal, wood, and plastic, stored in a 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

Material / Alloy:M42 Cobalt Alloy

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

Point Angle:135 Degree

Shank Type:Three Flat Shank

Coating / Finish:Plain Finish

Maximum RPM:Up to 5000 RPM

14‑piece M42 cobalt set offers ten‑times longer life, three‑flat shank security, and a rugged transport case.

Check Price

Best Premium

NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals, with 1/4" Hex Shank for Quick Chucks & Impact Drivers, SAE Sizes 3/32"-1/8"-3/16"-1/4"-5/16" in Storage Box

★★★★★★4.8

Material / Alloy:M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range:3/32" to 5/16"

Point Angle:135 Degree

Shank Type:1/4" Hex Shank

Coating / Finish:Plain Finish

Maximum RPM:Up to 5500 RPM

5‑piece stubby M35 cobalt set features 1/4" hex shank for rapid chuck changes and drilling confined spaces.

Check Price

Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Stainless Steel Best Drill Bit

Material / Alloy

Indicates the drill bit’s core composition (e.g., M35 cobalt, HSS, carbide). Higher alloy content improves hardness, heat resistance, and longevity when drilling stainless steel.

Diameter Range

Specifies the smallest to largest drill sizes in the set (e.g., 1/16"‑1/4"). A broader range reduces the need to purchase multiple kits for varied hole sizes.

Point Angle

The tip’s geometry, usually 135° for stainless steel. A larger angle reduces walking, increases chip evacuation, and cuts more efficiently in tough alloys.

Shank Type

Describes the bit’s end profile (round, hex, SDS‑plus). Compatible shank designs ensure secure chuck grip, minimize wobble, and affect tool‑changing speed.

Coating / Finish

Surface treatment such as TiN, black oxide, or diamond‑like coating. Coatings lower friction, extend life, and improve heat dissipation during high‑speed drilling.

Maximum RPM

The highest safe rotational speed for the bit (e.g., 10,000 RPM). Staying within this limit prevents overheating, prolongs sharpness, and avoids premature failure.

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

The MACXCOIP set offers thirteen precision bits that handle stainless steel, cast iron and wood with equal confidence. Its M35 cobalt alloy resists heat and wear, while the 135 degree split point reduces walk and speeds chip evacuation. The compact case keeps bits organized, and the jobber length provides ample reach for most projects. It also fits standard chucks easily.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle

✓135 Degree

Shank Type

✓Jobber Length Shank

Coating / Finish

✓Plain Finish

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 6000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size selection
✓Durable cobalt construction
✓Self centering tip
✓Comes with storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Higher price than basic sets

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 delivers fourteen M42 cobalt bits that excel on stainless steel, titanium and cast iron. The three‑flat shank locks securely in quick‑change chucks, while the 135 degree tip cuts efficiently with reduced heat buildup. Robust alloy grants ten times the life of standard steel, and the sturdy case simplifies storage and field transport. It fits most professional rigs easily.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓M42 Cobalt Alloy

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle

✓135 Degree

Shank Type

✓Three Flat Shank

Coating / Finish

✓Plain Finish

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 5000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Extended tool life
✓High heat resistance
✓Versatile metal coverage
✓Included transport case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to medium sizes
✗Higher cost per bit

Check Price

by NordWolf

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals, with 1/4" Hex Shank for Quick Chucks & Impact Drivers, SAE Sizes 3/32"-1/8"-3/16"-1/4"-5/16" in Storage Box

BEST PREMIUM

NordWolf provides five stubby M35 cobalt bits that reach into confined areas where standard lengths fail. The 1/4 inch hex shank mates with quick‑change chucks and impact drivers, while the 135 degree split point ensures self‑centering entry and fast chip removal. Precision grinding yields smooth holes in stainless steel, titanium and hardened alloys. The set includes a sturdy storage box.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓3/32" to 5/16"

Point Angle

✓135 Degree

Shank Type

✓1/4" Hex Shank

Coating / Finish

✓Plain Finish

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 5500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Stubby length for tight spaces
✓Hex shank fits quick chucks
✓Durable cobalt construction
✓Self centering split point

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited size range
✗Higher price per piece

Check Price

Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal & Stainless Steel - 21pcs Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN), Three-Flute Design, 1/16"-1/2" Metal Drill Bits

by Crosstar

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal & Stainless Steel - 21pcs Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN), Three-Flute Design, 1/16"-1/2" Metal Drill Bits

BEST RUNNER UP

Crosstar 21‑piece set combines M35 cobalt strength with a TiAlN nano coating that tolerates temperatures up to 800°C. The three‑flute geometry delivers smoother walls, faster chip clearance and reduced bit walk. With sizes from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, the set handles stainless steel, hardened cast iron and titanium while extending bit lifespan. It arrives in a durable organizer case today.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Point Angle

✓135 Degree

Shank Type

✓Jobber Length Shank

Coating / Finish

✓TiAlN Nano Coating

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 6500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓TiAlN coating for heat resistance
✓Triple flute improves chip ejection
✓Wide size selection
✓Long tool life

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Coating may chip over time
✗Higher upfront cost

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 Cobalt set delivers reliable performance on hardened metal and wood alike. M35 steel with 5% cobalt resists heat and wear, while the 135° split point starts on contact and reduces walking. The indexed box keeps sizes organized, and the job‑shaft design fits most drills. Ideal for hobbyists seeking a durable, cost‑effective kit. It also drills plastic without binding.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓M35 High Speed Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Shank Type

✓Jobber Shank

Coating / Finish

✓Plain Finish

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 12,000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Heat resistant
✓Long life
✓Precise start
✓Organized storage

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No cobalt verification
✗Limited size range

Check Price

STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set (1/16-1/4 Inch, 13PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Plastic and Wood

by STROTON

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set (1/16-1/4 Inch, 13PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Plastic and Wood

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The STROTON 13‑piece set uses true 5% cobalt M35 alloy that meets the claimed hardness of 68 HRC. Its split‑point geometry and full grind finish enable fast entry into stainless steel, cast iron and hardwood. The bits hold up at high speed, delivering three times the efficiency of standard HSS. A solid choice for serious DIYers. They also drill plastic cleanly.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle

✓135° Split Point

Shank Type

✓Jobber Shank

Coating / Finish

✓Full Grind Finish

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 10,000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓True cobalt content
✓High hardness
✓Fast cutting
✓Versatile materials

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price
✗Limited to small sizes

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.

★★★★★

4.3 / 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 FOR BEGINNERS

The toolant Pro set supplies 21 TiAlN‑coated cobalt bits that excel on hardened steel and stainless. Bullet‑point tips start holes without wandering, while the nitride coating raises surface hardness to 89 HRC, extending life under high RPM. The wide size range up to 1/2" covers most metal projects, making it a reliable addition for workshop use. It also drills plastic efficiently.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓TiAlN Coated Cobalt

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Point Angle

✓Bullet Point Tip

Shank Type

✓Jobber Shank

Coating / Finish

✓Nitride Finish

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 15,000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Very hard coating
✓Bullet tip accuracy
✓Wide size range
✓Long tool life

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher cost
✗Box bulky

Check Price

DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece (DW1361)

by DEWALT

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece (DW1361)

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The DEWALT 21‑piece set features TiN‑coated pilot‑point bits that start on contact and produce clean holes in metal and wood. The titanium nitride finish adds surface hardness and reduces friction, extending life at speeds up to 11,000 RPM. No spin shank design improves grip, while the comprehensive size range makes it suitable for demanding jobsite tasks. It also handles plastic adequately.

Key Specifications

Material / Alloy

✓Titanium Nitride Coating

Diameter Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Point Angle

✓Pilot Point Tip

Shank Type

✓Standard Shank

Coating / Finish

✓TiN Finish

Maximum RPM

✓Up to 11,000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Starts on contact
✓Durable coating
✓No spin shank
✓Wide size range

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to 1/4"
✗No cobalt

Check Price

Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a stainless‑steel drill bit, prioritize the alloy grade and coating. S2 (high‑speed steel with cobalt) handles 304/316 stainless well; S3 or cobalt‑enhanced HSS offers higher wear resistance for demanding jobs. A TiN/TiAlN coating reduces friction and heat. Choose a split‑point or 135° tip for clean starts, and a round or SDS‑plus shank for secure chuck grip. Length should suit the material thickness without excessive flex.

Budget Recommendations

Budget recommendations fall into three bands. Entry‑level stainless‑steel bits under $10 are usually plain HSS with minimal coating—adequate for occasional household tasks but wear quickly. Mid‑range $10‑30 models typically feature S2 or S3 steel with TiN coating, offering a solid balance of durability and price for DIYers and light‑shop work. Premium options above $30 use cobalt‑enhanced HSS or carbide tips, professional‑grade coatings, and precision tolerances, delivering the longest life in high‑speed or high‑volume applications.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Common pitfalls to avoid include using the wrong speed and feed rate; stainless steel requires slower RPMs and steady feed to prevent work‑hardening. Cheap bits made from low‑grade steel will blunt quickly and generate excess heat, leading to broken tips. Ignoring proper lubrication—such as cutting oil or water‑soluble coolant—causes rapid wear and poor hole quality. Finally, mismatching shank type with the chuck can cause slippage and inaccurate positioning.

How We Test Stainless Steel Best Drill Bit

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating stainless steel best 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 stainless steel best 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

Professional metal fabricators

Need durable bits that retain sharpness when drilling hardened stainless steel components.

DIY home renovators

Require reliable drill bits for installing fixtures in stainless steel appliances and fixtures without frequent replacements.

Automotive mechanics

Often drill into stainless steel exhausts and brackets, demanding bits that resist heat and wear.

Jewelry makers

Work with delicate stainless steel pieces and need precise, corrosion‑resistant bits for fine detailing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Cobalt‑alloy (M35 or M42) or high‑speed steel (HSS) bits with a titanium nitride (TiN) coating are considered the best. Cobalt bits retain hardness at the high temperatures generated when drilling stainless steel, while TiN‑coated HSS bits reduce friction and extend tool life.

Why shouldn’t I use regular HSS bits on stainless steel?

Standard HSS bits soften quickly when the cutting temperature exceeds about 600 °F (315 °C). Drilling stainless steel creates a lot of heat, so ordinary HSS loses its hardness, blunts rapidly, and can cause the workpiece to gall or seize.

How do I choose the correct drill‑bit size and geometry for stainless steel?

Select a bit with a 118° or 135° split‑point tip to start the hole cleanly and reduce walking. Use a diameter that matches the hole requirement; for pilot holes, start with a smaller bit (e.g., 1/8 in.) and step up. A fluted design that evacuates chips efficiently—such as a 2‑flute or 4‑flute carbide‑coated bit—helps keep the cut cool.

What drilling technique reduces heat buildup when working with stainless steel?

Use a low to moderate spindle speed (around 500–800 RPM for 1/4‑in. bits) combined with a steady feed pressure. Apply cutting fluid or a light oil mist to lubricate the cutting edge and carry away heat. Periodically withdraw the bit to clear chips and let the bit cool.

Can I reuse a drill bit that’s been used on stainless steel, and how do I maintain it?

Yes, but inspect the tip for wear, chipping, or loss of coating. Sharpen the bit with a diamond or carbide sharpening stone, re‑coat it if the TiN layer is worn, and always store it dry to prevent corrosion. Regular cleaning with a solvent and applying a light oil film will prolong its life.