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What Is The Best Drill Bits Available

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

6 min read

Looking for the best what is the best drill bits available in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like Norseman, DEWALT, Drill, Sinyeenglon, EFFICERE 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 what is the best drill bits available that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Norseman Drill Bits 44170 Ultra Dex Type 240-UB 135 Degree Split Point Magnum Super Premium Jobber Drill Set (29 Piece)

★★★★★★4.8

Material Construction:High Speed Steel

Size Range:1/16-1/2

Point Angle:135 Degree

Coating / Finish:Gold Oxide

Flute Design:Precision Ground

Shank Type:Round Shank

Precision split point, gold‑oxide HSS durability, and a rugged case deliver unmatched accuracy and organization on every job.

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Best Value

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

★★★★★★4.6

Material Construction:High Speed Steel

Size Range:1/16-1/2

Point Angle:118 Degree

Coating / Finish:Titanium Nitride

Flute Design:Standard Twist

Shank Type:Three Flat

Titanium‑nitride coating, pilot‑point start, and three‑flat shank extend life while eliminating wobble for everyday drilling.

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Best Premium

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)

★★★★★★4.7

Material Construction:High Speed Steel

Size Range:1/16-1/2

Point Angle:135 Degree

Coating / Finish:Plain Finish

Flute Design:Tapered Web

Shank Type:Three Flat

135° split point, tapered web strength, and versatile HSS construction tackle wood, metal, and plastic with precision.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For What Is The Best Drill Bits Available

Material Construction

Determines durability, heat resistance, and wear life; common options include high‑speed steel (HSS), cobalt‑alloy, carbide, and titanium‑coated steel.

Size Range

The smallest to largest diameters offered; buyers match this to the hole sizes they need, usually expressed in fractional or metric increments.

Point Angle

Angle of the tip (e.g., 118° for wood, 135° for metal) influences start‑up accuracy, chip evacuation, and suitability for different materials.

Coating / Finish

Surface treatments like TiN, TiAlN, black oxide or diamond coating extend life, reduce friction, and improve performance in specific applications.

Flute Design

Shape of the cutting grooves—split‑point, brad‑point, twist, or parabolic—affects chip removal, centering ability, and suitability for wood, metal, or masonry.

Shank Type

Compatibility with chuck systems (straight, SDS‑plus, hex, or reduced shank) ensures secure grip, reduces wobble, and determines which drills can use the bits.

by Norseman

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Norseman Drill Bits 44170 Ultra Dex Type 240-UB 135 Degree Split Point Magnum Super Premium Jobber Drill Set (29 Piece)

BEST OVERALL

Norseman Ultra Dex set delivers exceptional precision across a wide size range. The 135 degree split point starts on contact, reducing walk and improving hole accuracy. High speed steel construction with a gold oxide finish resists wear, while the precision ground flutes evacuate chips efficiently. The set includes a robust storage case for easy organization and quick job changes today.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓High Speed Steel

Size Range

✓1/16-1/2

Point Angle

✓135 Degree

Coating / Finish

✓Gold Oxide

Flute Design

✓Precision Ground

Shank Type

✓Round Shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Accurate split point
✓Durable HSS material
✓Gold oxide finish
✓Comes with case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗Limited to standard sizes

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by DEWALT

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

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

BEST VALUE

DEWALT 21‑piece set offers reliable performance for everyday drilling tasks. Titanium nitride coating extends tool life while the pilot point starts on contact, minimizing wobble. High speed steel shafts handle wood, metal and plastics with confidence. The three‑flat shank eliminates spin on keyed chucks. Compact case keeps bits organized for quick access on job sites and improves efficiency daily work.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓High Speed Steel

Size Range

✓1/16-1/2

Point Angle

✓118 Degree

Coating / Finish

✓Titanium Nitride

Flute Design

✓Standard Twist

Shank Type

✓Three Flat

Reasons to Buy

✓Long life coating
✓Pilot point start
✓Three flat shank
✓Compact storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No extra durability coating
✗Limited size increments

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by DEWALT

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)

BEST PREMIUM

The DEWALT 14‑piece collection targets professionals needing versatile drilling across materials. A 135 degree split point reduces walking and delivers clean entry. High speed steel body resists wear in wood, plastic and metal. The tapered web adds strength, while the three‑flat shank prevents spin in keyed chucks. Carrying case streamlines transport and protects bits during travel for any job today.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓High Speed Steel

Size Range

✓1/16-1/2

Point Angle

✓135 Degree

Coating / Finish

✓Plain Finish

Flute Design

✓Tapered Web

Shank Type

✓Three Flat

Reasons to Buy

✓Reduced walking
✓Strong tapered web
✓Versatile material use
✓Protective case included

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No coating for hardness
✗Limited to 14 pieces

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Drill America 29 Piece Cobalt Stepped Point Drill Bit Set in Round Case w/Gold Oxide Finish for Drilling Acrylic, Steel, Hard Metals, Sizes 1/16" to 1/2" x 64ths, GSC Series ZMGSC29J-PC

by Drill

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Drill America 29 Piece Cobalt Stepped Point Drill Bit Set in Round Case w/Gold Oxide Finish for Drilling Acrylic, Steel, Hard Metals, Sizes 1/16" to 1/2" x 64ths, GSC Series ZMGSC29J-PC

BEST RUNNER UP

Drill America 29‑piece cobalt set excels at drilling hardened metals and acrylic. Gold oxide finish combines corrosion resistance with a stepped point that starts easily and reduces heat buildup. 135 degree split tip and three‑flat shank prevent wandering. The set spans 1/16 to 1/2 inch with round shanks for smaller sizes, all stored in a sturdy case for professional use.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓Cobalt Steel

Size Range

✓1/16-1/2

Point Angle

✓135 Degree

Coating / Finish

✓Gold Oxide

Flute Design

✓Stepped Point

Shank Type

✓Three Flat

Reasons to Buy

✓Excellent for hard metals
✓Stepped point starts easily
✓Gold oxide corrosion resistant
✓Comes with sturdy case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher cost than HSS
✗Round shank limited sizes

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Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and Stainless Steel, 122Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Metal Drill Bits 1/16"-1/2", 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, 122Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Metal Drill Bits 1/16"-1/2", with Plastic Index Storage Case

BEST BUDGET

The Sinyeenglon set offers cobalt M35 bits that cut hardened steel with remarkable speed and durability. Size increments from 1/16 to 1/2 inch cover most small‑diameter tasks. The 135° split point reduces walk, while the plain finish keeps cost low. A sturdy plastic case with printed size markers makes organization effortless. Ideal for precision metal work and reliable performance today.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓Cobalt M35

Size Range

✓1/16-1/2 in

Point Angle

✓135° split point

Coating / Finish

✓Uncoated steel

Flute Design

✓Standard twist flute

Shank Type

✓Jobber shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Extremely hard material
✓Long tool life
✓Clear compartment labeling
✓Durable storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗No protective coating

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EFFICERE 8-Piece Premium 1/2” Reduced Shank Silver and Deming Large Drill Bit Set in Aluminum Carry Case, M2 High Speed Steel, 135-Degree Split Point | SAE Inch Size 9/16” - 1” by 1/16th Increment

by EFFICERE

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

EFFICERE 8-Piece Premium 1/2” Reduced Shank Silver and Deming Large Drill Bit Set in Aluminum Carry Case, M2 High Speed Steel, 135-Degree Split Point | SAE Inch Size 9/16” - 1” by 1/16th Increment

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The EFFICERE eight‑piece set combines M2 cobalt steel with gold titanium and black nitride dual coating, delivering exceptional hardness and corrosion resistance. Bits range from 9/16 to 1 inch with reduced shanks for spaces. A 135° split point and deep‑groove twisted flute accelerate drilling and prevent wandering. The aluminum case keeps tools organized and protected. Perfect for metal projects today.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓M2 cobalt HSS

Size Range

✓9/16-1 in

Point Angle

✓135° split point

Coating / Finish

✓Gold titanium & nitride

Flute Design

✓Deep‑groove twisted flute

Shank Type

✓Reduced shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Industrial grade durability
✓Fast chip evacuation
✓Dual coating corrosion resistance
✓Compact aluminum case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited size variety
✗Higher cost per bit

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Norseman 22903 1/16 in. - 1/2 in. Super Premium Black and Gold Oxide Hi-Molybdenum Steel Drill Bit Set, 29-Piece, grey

by Norseman

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Norseman 22903 1/16 in. - 1/2 in. Super Premium Black and Gold Oxide Hi-Molybdenum Steel Drill Bit Set, 29-Piece, grey

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The Norseman 29‑piece set features high‑molybdenum steel bits finished with black oxide for modest rust protection. Sizes span from 1/16 to 1/2 inch, covering most small‑diameter applications in metal, acrylic and brass. A conventional 118° point and standard twist flute provide reliable entry, while the full shank ensures stability. Value driven choice for hobbyist metal work and easy maintenance today.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓Hi‑Molybdenum steel

Size Range

✓1/16-1/2 in

Point Angle

✓118° point

Coating / Finish

✓Black oxide finish

Flute Design

✓Standard twist flute

Shank Type

✓Full shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size selection
✓Oxide finish resists rust
✓Handles hard steel
✓Affordable price

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No split point
✗Limited coating durability

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DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix, Black Oxide Coated, For Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1181)

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, 21-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix, Black Oxide Coated, For Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1181)

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The DEWALT 21‑piece DWA1181 set uses high speed steel with a 135° split point, suitable for metal, hardwood, softwood, PVC and fiberglass. Size options run from 1/16 to 1/2 inch, each featuring a parabolic flute that improves chip evacuation. Black oxide coating adds corrosion resistance, while the full shank provides solid grip. Reliable choice for general purpose drilling today use.

Key Specifications

Material Construction

✓High speed steel

Size Range

✓1/16-1/2 in

Point Angle

✓135° split point

Coating / Finish

✓Black oxide coating

Flute Design

✓Parabolic flute

Shank Type

✓Full shank

Reasons to Buy

✓Versatile material compatibility
✓Parabolic flute clears chips
✓Durable black oxide
✓Trusted brand reliability

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to standard shank
✗No premium coating

Check Price

Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

Material and coating are the primary indicators of durability; high‑speed steel (HSS) is standard, while cobalt or carbide tips excel in hard metals. Look for a consistent shank diameter (typically 1/4" or 3/8") that fits your chuck and a tip geometry suited to the material—split‑point for wood, brad point for precision, and titanium‑nitride coating for reduced friction and heat.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY work, a 30‑piece HSS set from reputable brands falls between $20‑$35 and offers adequate performance on wood and soft metals. Professionals needing longevity should invest in a 20‑piece cobalt or carbide set priced $70‑$120, which maintains sharpness in stainless steel and cast iron. Mid‑range titanium‑nitride sets (~$45‑$60) provide a balance of durability and cost for mixed‑material projects.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don’t assume a larger set means better quality; cheap, oversized packs often include poorly ground tips that wander or break. Avoid using bits beyond their rated material—HSS on hardened steel will dull quickly. Finally, neglecting proper storage—stacking without protective caps—can damage flutes and reduce accuracy over time.

How We Test What Is The Best Drill Bits Available

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating what is the best drill bits available 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 what is the best drill bits available 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 contractors

They require durable, high-performance bits that can handle heavy-duty construction and frequent use.

DIY homeowners

They need versatile, easy‑to‑use drill bits for a wide range of home repair and improvement projects.

Hobbyist woodworkers

Precision‑cutting bits are essential for achieving clean, accurate holes in fine woodworking.

Automotive technicians

Specialized bits for metal and fastener work help them service vehicles efficiently and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors determine the best drill bit for a specific job?

The best drill bit depends on material (metal, wood, masonry, plastic), bit type (twist, spade, carbide‑tipped, brad point, SDS), diameter and length required, speed and feed rates, and the power source (corded, cordless, hammer). Matching these factors to the task ensures optimal performance, longevity, and safety.

Which brand offers the most reliable high‑speed steel (HSS) drill bits?

Makita and DEWALT are widely regarded for their premium HSS bits. Makita’s XPH series provides a balanced mix of durability and precision, while DEWALT’s Titanium‑coated bits offer excellent wear resistance and longer life in demanding metal‑drilling applications.

Are carbide‑tipped drill bits the best choice for drilling into concrete and masonry?

Yes. Carbide‑tipped bits, especially those designed for SDS‑plus or SDS‑max shanks, deliver the hardness and heat resistance needed for concrete, brick, and stone. Brands like Bosch (Blue Granite) and Hilti (MS‑C) are top performers, offering fast penetration and reduced bit wear.

What is the best drill bit material for woodworking?

For wood, a high‑quality carbon steel or titanium‑nitride (TiN) coated brad‑point or spade bit works best. The brad‑point design provides clean, accurate holes with minimal splintering. Popular options include the Irwin Quick‑Turn and Freud Wood‑Specific series, both of which maintain sharpness and reduce tear‑out.

Do premium drill bit sets offer a real advantage over generic budget sets?

Premium sets typically use superior materials (e.g., S2 steel, TiN coating, carbide tips), tighter tolerances, and better heat‑treatment processes, resulting in longer life, higher precision, and reduced wobble. While a budget set can handle occasional light tasks, professional or frequent use benefits significantly from the consistency and durability of premium bits.