10 Best Drill Bits for Stainless Steel – Reviewed in 2022

You probably know how stubborn hardened steel surfaces can be when you need to drill holes in them. Stainless steel is not easy to penetrate. So if you think regular drill bits can do the job, you’d better think again!

We have reviewed some of the best drill bits for stainless steel (see below). Drill bits come in a variety of sizes, shapes, designs, and some have coatings on them. It is essential to choose the right one based on the material you will be drilling. The right steel bits will help you bore holes no matter how hard the steel is.

Best Stainless Steel Drill Bits – Comparison

Best Drill Bits for Stainless Steel – Review

We have reviewed top rated stainless steel drill bits on the market to help you choose the perfect one for you drill machine.

1. DEWALT DW1361 – Best Drill Bits For Hardened Steel

The DW1361 titanium drill bit sets offers a range of 21 bits sized from 1/16th of an inch to 1/2 an inch. These drill bits are coated with titanium and have web tapered shanks to minimize the chances of the bits displacing, slipping or walking during drilling.

All the bits have DeWalt’s patented Pilot Point, meaning its drill bits will start instantly upon contact and giving you a clean finish on the drilled holes.

And all of these comes nicely packaged in a safe, sturdy carrying case which is very compact and portable.

These bits are strong enough to drill through most woods, plastics and stainless steel as well.

2. IRWIN 3018002 – Best Cobalt Drill Bit For Stainless Steel

The IRWIN 3018002 Cobalt M-35 Metal Drill Bit Set is a 29-piece kit made out of 5% cobalt. This means the bits will hold less heat, reduce friction and last longer. They also feature the 135-degree split point that starts drilling immediately requires less force.

These steel drill bits are ideal for drilling through tough metals, including heavy-duty abrasive alloy metal drilling on hardened metals and stainless steel.

In the set, you will find bits in sizes ranging from 1/16 to 1/2-inch in 1/64 inch increments. For maximum versatility, the 3/8-inch point has a reduced length shank. This unusual shank lets you use this large steel drill bit in a 3/8-inch chuck. This is especially handy if you don’t have a larger drill.

The company includes a tap and drill selection chart to help you choose the right steel drill bit for the job. The storage case is different to the other cases we have reviewed so far. This one is made of an over molded rubber. This case protects your bits from damage if the case is accidental dropped. Also, the bits are stores in cartridges, or sleeves, and you can remove each cartridge. This makes it easy to carry a group of bits from the case to your worksite. Each cartridge is clearly labeled so you can find the right size bit quickly.

This is a bit expensive set but money worthy, and it shows in the quality of the bits and the case.

3. Bosch CO21 – Cheap Drill Bits For Stainless Steel

German company Bosch makes a lot of products and has earned a fine reputation around the world. The Bosch CO21 bits set is another good product. Bosch claims this steel bits will last 4 times longer than standard high-speed drill bit to drill through stainless steel.

These bits are engineered for contractors and other pros who need solid, reliable bits for demanding drilling applications in stainless steel, cast iron, and high-density metals. Bosch seems to want to make these a consumer’s drill bits of choice, saying the bits can also be used for general-application drilling in high-carbon steel and light-gauge metal, wood and plastic.

Bosch says these bits are manufactured from cobalt, not just coated with cobalt. Also, the larger bits from 3/16 inch and up have a three-sided shank to grip better and protect against slipping.

These bits definitely stand out from the others. The bit features a split-point non skate tip for drilling cleaner and accurate holes.

4. Drill Hog 29M42 – Best High Speed Steel Drill Bits

If you are looking for the top quality high speed steel drill bits, check out this 29-pieceset of cobal bits. These bits pierce the surface very smoothly. The M42 set is made of M42 high-speed steel coated with cobalt. They are very durable.

These bits can pierce the hardest steel, such as truck frames, stainless steel, farm implements, spring steel, grade 8 bolts, and more.

The bit has a melting point of 2,853 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only that, it features a 135-degree split point that prevents walking as well.

The shank has three sides with flat ends that prevent the bits from spinning in the chuck.

5. DEWALT DWA1240 – Pilot Point Steel Drill Bits

DEWALT is one of the most popular tool brands. The DWA1240 is a pilot point steel drill bit set with 14 bits including 2) 1/16″ bit, (1) 5/64″ bit, (1) 3/32″ bit, (1) 7/64″ bit, (2) 1/8″ bit, (1) 9/64″ bit, (1) 5/32″ bit, (1) 3/16″ bit, (1) 7/32″ bit, (1) 1/4″ bit, (1) 5/16″ bit, and (1) 3/8″ bit. They’re designed for drilling stainless steel.

These cobalt-coated bits will slice through the hardest stainless steel surfaces. Their high-speed execution is something you should take into consideration. The set includes a pilot point and a split-tip, allowing them to start on contact and create clean, accurate holes.

They feature a no bit-walking factor too–another great trait that gives you more control and precision in your drilling.

6. DEWALT DW1177 – Black Oxide Drill Bits For Stainless Steel

Now, if you are looking for slightly smaller set of drill bits for steel, take a look at the DeWalt DW1177.

The DW1177 drill bit set is a 20-piece kit, and includes 20 bits of 20 different sizes ranging from 1/16th to 1/2 of an inch.

Needless to say, this set could become your go-to for various different types of drilling work. Each steel drill bit features a parabolic flute design, which gives the bits more strength and power when drilling through various hard surfaces.

Each bit in the DW1177 set has a 135-degree split-point design that prevents any chance of slippage or walking. It also gives you easier, non-slip starting when you begin to drill. This, gives you more control over the drill the final result is cleaner and more precise holes. Each steel drill bit is designed to last longer due to the black oxide coating on the outside.

The DW1177 is therefore ideal for drilling through most metals, plastics and woods.

And finally, to ensure avoid losing bits and keep them all handy, this bit set comes packed in a very well protected and tough plastic carrying case. And unlike most cases, this one has a slide lock that is easy to open and close.

7. Mastercraft – Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set for Steel

Alright. If all you ever do is drill holes, and you need bits from 1/16th of an inch to 1/2 inch sizes, it’s time for you to meet a metal drill bit set that is a little over the top: The Mastercraft set for metal. This set is perfect for those of you who are looking for the best drill bits for stainless steel!

The Mastercraft has 230pieces, so you get multiple bits of the smaller sizes and one each of the two largest bits. Each size of drill bit has its own compartment in the tray, making it easy to find exactly the size you need. And the box is labeled, too.

The bottom line is, this set gives you all the bits you need to drill various types of surfaces. This steel drill bit set is fantastic for use on wood, metal, hardened stainless steel, fiberglass and plastics. Make sure you do not use these drill bits on masonry or concrete, however.

As for durability, the steel bits are all made from titanium coated HSS, or high-speed steel. Mastercraft says these bits will last up to 6 times longer than standard bits. Bits with a titanium coating are some of the best drill bits for stainless steel.

And finally of course, the 230 bits are very neatly and securely tucked inside their compartments inside a very sturdy and easily portable hard-case.

8. IRWIN 3018003 – Titanium-Nitride Coated Metal Index Drill Bit Set with Case

If you like the Irwin Tools 3018002 Cobalt M-35 Metal Bit Set we reviewed above, here’s another Irwin set that’s a notch above it: The IRWIN 3018003 titanium nitride coated metal drill bit set.

The IRWIN 3018003, to some extent, is similar to the IRWIN 3018002 cobalt set. If you take a quick glance at the product photos, it would be easy to mistake one set for the other.

They are both 29-piece kits that have the same sizes of bits. Both steel drill bit kits are heavy-duty and are made for use on the same surfaces. These high-quality metal drill bits also haves a 135- degree split tip design that starts on contact, which helps to reduce friction and heat, along with bit walking and slippage.

And of course, they both come in a nice rubber hard case. Overall, what we are trying to say is that these two drill bit kits share very close features. However, there are a few points which make IRWIN 3018003 a little different than the other kit.

First of all, the IRWIN 3018003 are most ideal for repetitive metal drilling with portable drills and for use in stationary drill presses.

Second, these IRWIN 3018003 are high speed steel coated with titanium nitride, which make them super durable. The manufacturer claims they last 6 times longer than conventional steel drill bits!

9. DEWALT DW1354 14-Piece Titanium Drill Bit Set

Our next pick is from the quality house of DEWALT. It is the DW1354 Titanium Drill Set, and it is just as good for your wooden projects as it is for the metals!

The DW1354 drill set is a smaller, 14-piece kit and is specifically made for you to use on range of metal, plastic and wood-drilling applications.

The drill bits range from 1/16 of an inch to ½ an inch, so you will have the right size bit for many different types of projects. The shanks are tapered so that you can use them for heavy-duty tasks without fear of breaking them.

These bits are no-spin as well, meaning they won’t slip or walk on the drilling surface. Also, the W1354 Titanium Drill Set features the patented Pilot Point tip which starts immediately on contact with the surface, giving you a much cleaning and more precise hole.

The titanium coating provides a longer life when drilling in non-ferrous metals.

Overall, the DW1354 Titanium Drill Set is perfect for people who are looking for a set that is compact, super affordable and of course, has the sizes you need for many day to day projects.

This kit has a smaller number of drill bits, so it’s not surprising that it is the least expensive of the kits we reviewed.

10. Craftsman 9-64085 Professional Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 21 Piece

If you like cobalt drill bit sets, and are looking for a slight upgrade, the Craftsman 9-64085 Cobalt Bit Set is something you need to look into.

The Craftsman 9-64085 is comprised of 21 of cobalt drill bits with sizes ranging from 1/16^th of an inch to 3/8^th of an inch. This covers a good spectrum of drilling sizes; most people don’t use the bigger bits as often as the smaller ones.

Each of these steel drill bits provide some heavy-duty action, specifically on hard metals and stainless steel. They benefit from the cobalt, after all! And these Craftsman 9-64085 bits will perform just as powerfully on hard woods since all the buts have split points.

Speaking of which, these split point drill bits are furthermore active on contact, meaning there is a lesser chance of the bit walking or slipping. The result is holes that are cleaner and more precisely drilled.

Oh, and one more thing: the bits in the Craftsman 9-64085 set are also recommended for drill presses and stationary machines. Having said that, we have had many users who did just fine using it otherwise, so here’s something to look into.

And finally, this 14-piece kit comes in a compact and lightweight plastic case.

 

Best Drill Bits for Stainless Steel – Buying Guide

You should consider below factors before buying the drill bits for steel.

Materials for Drill Bits

The life and performance of a bit completely depends on the materials used to make them and the coatings used on them. There are a choice of different materials and coatings available. Drill bits with a titanium coating or cobalt are some of the best drill bits for stainless steel.

Low Carbon Steel:

These kinds of bits are softer, as compared to bits made of other materials. They often require sharpening. The low carbon steel bits work well for piercing through materials like soft plastics or wood. If you are looking for the best drill bit for stainless steel, you wouldn’t choose a bit made of low carbon steel.

High Carbon Steel

This is sometimes called hardened steel. High carbon steel tends to be more brittle than other kinds of metal. The shape of the steel drill bits can be distorted when the bits are overheated. They are mostly used for boring into wood or steel.

High-Speed Steel (HSS)

This material is used for bits that drill both harder and softer surfaces. They defy heat and stay sharp for a longer amount of time. Besides, they work great to penetrate wood, fiberglass, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and aluminum. These special kinds of steels stay hard at temperatures up to 932 degrees F (500degrees C) and are very resistant to wear. High-speed steels are alloys made of chromium, tungsten, molybdenum and vanadium.

Cobalt

Cobalt drill bit for stainless steel is a perfect choice. Cobalt is tremendously hard and is excellent for cutting tough surfaces. Bits made with cobalt are often stamped to show the percentage of cobalt in the bit, which also indicates how strong the bit I likely to be. Cobalt resists heat and performs well on the toughest surfaces. Additionally, drill bits with cobalt are favored by professionals as they are popular for their longer life and high-performance. If you’re wondering what kind of drill bit you need for stainless steel, a bit with cobalt is an excellent choice.

Black oxide-coated HSS

These materials have a finish on them that helps them to resist weathering and increases the life of the bit. Black oxide-coated HSS drill bits are more durable than many other materials. They work great when you need to cut holes in steel, hardwood, softwood, PVC, and fiberglass.

Titanium-coated HSS

Titanium drill bit for stainless steel is another great choice. These bits tend to produce less friction and offer high-performance drilling. They are sturdy and very sharp for drilling any kind of surface. They are basically used for boring wood, steel, fiberglass, and PVC. This kind of bit performs well in matrix drills.

Carbide-tipped

These kinds of bits stay sharper than most other materials. They work great for piercing surfaces like tile and masonry. They are one of the best drill bits for stainless steel and metal as well.

The Shape

Different shapes are used for drilling different surfaces. You can’t use just any shape of bit to drill any kind of material. To get the top quality drill bits for stainless steel you need a drill bit with the right shape for the material you will be drilling.

Twist Bit

This is one of the most common shapes of steel drill bits. Twist bits are usually used for boring hardened steel surfaces, including stainless steel. But if you want this, you can use them on other kinds of materials as well. They are perfect for drilling in wood, plastic and light steel.

Split Point Bit

Like the twist bit, this shape is also for drilling steel. It features a split point, unlike twist bit, and this allows the bit to be self-centering even when boring through the toughest surfaces. Its various points and angles are sharper than many other kids of bits so it can cut precisely through surfaces.

Brad Point Bit

This bit is one of the most favorite bits used by woodworkers. It has a sharp tip that positions the bit precisely for an accurate hole and maintains the center while drilling. Its flute-groove is another great feature that wraps around the bit and gets rid of the wood chips.

Countersink Bit

You can also call it a screw pilot bit. This bit bore pilot, countersink and counter-bore holes. It helps to countersink a snap and set up a plug over the snap head. This shape of bit works well for drilling through wood surfaces.

Auger Bits

These bits are longer in shape, so they penetrate through long surfaces and produce rough holes. The long spirals help to pierce the material and remove the shavings. Auger bits have a screw tip that starts the hole and pulls the bit through the surface get a clean hole. They pierce quickly through wood, such as wooden framing studs.

Spade or Paddle Bits

Yes, the name describes the shape of the bit. If you’ve seen a garden spade, you know what these bits look like. They are used to pierce large-diameter holes in wood. These bits have flattened blade and a sharp point that helps to position and steady the bit.

Hole Saw Bits

Use hold saw bits to drill larger holes. They have two parts: a twist bit and a circular saw ring with serrated teeth. They produce smooth holes and are mainly used to drill holes in tile and masonry.

Step Bit

These are smaller bits that are used to drill up to 1/4-inch diameter. The step bit works great on wood. Its stepped design lets you use a single bit to bore holes of different diameters. You can use this bit to produce clean holes. The bit removes shavings or debris from the hole.

Masonry Bit

This type of bit pierces through stubborn, hard surfaces including concrete, brick, stone, glass bricks, and other masonry materials. You can use them in corded or cordless rotary drills to penetrate the masonry precisely. Masonry bits feature a carbide tip that helps to drive the bit into the material. Some masonry bits are deeply fluted to clean out the dust and dirt from drilling into concrete. Another kind of fluted bit called a “fast spiral” shape is usually used for drilling into brick.

Compatibility With Your Drill Machine

Most steel drill bits, regardless of the material they are made from, their shape and size, will fit into your drill comfortably. However, there may be times when the shank of the drill bit is too big to fit into your drill’s chuck.

We therefore always advise you to check the specifications of your drill before choosing any steel drill bit at all. Make sure that the thickness or diameter of the bit’s shank will fits perfectly into the drill’s chuck. We cannot even begin to stress how important this! However, there are a few bits available that are made with a smaller diameter shank than normal so you can use them in a smaller drill.

What kind of drill bits for stainless steel are available in the market? Here are a few common types of shanks you should know about:

• Round shanks fit instantly into the chuck and will be perfectly centered.
• Hex shank, or hexagonal shape shank, has six flat surfaces. This style of shank sits tightly in the chuck, which reduces the amount of wobble and walking of the bit.
• SDS shank, or a Slot Driven System shanks, sits on the spring-loaded chuck of a hammer drill and doesn’t need any manual adjustments.

What is the Best Drill Bit for Stainless Steel?

There are different types of drill bits for stainless steel available in the market. There are choices, and in the end, it depends on what you prefer. But there are two main kinds of bit you should consider, cobalt and the titanium bits. It also helps a lot if you have a powerful drill. But no matter how powerful the drill is, you need a bit that is designed to drill tough surfaces like stainless steel. Lets take a look at both cobalt and titanium bits.

Benefits of Cobalt Bits

Cobalt drill bits are coated with—you guessed it–cobalt. It makes the drill bit hard enough to penetrate through tough metals such as stainless steel. Another benefit of cobalt is that it helps the drill bit to resist the heat caused by drilling. Also, cobalt bits stay sharp for a long time.

Benefits of Titanium Bits

Titanium drill bits are manufactured from titanium applied over high-speed steel. They are sturdy and durable enough to pierce through the hardest materials. These bits are also very strong and powerful steel drill bits, like the cobalt bits. The titanium coating also helps the steel drill bit to resist heat, and bits cause a lot of heat when they drill into stainless steel. However, titanium bits are also suitable for use on wood and plastic, in addition to steel. Titanium bits tend to hold their sharpness for a long time, and these bits are harder and more durable harder than other materials like high-speed steel alone, or carbon-tipped bits.

Top Steel Drill Bits Brand

There are many brands of drill bits for drilling into stainless steel, but all bits are not equally good. Some brands are definitely better than others. Next, you can read about some of the top brands of steel drill bits.

DEWALT

DEWALT is no stranger in the tool world. In fact, it is one of the most well-respected power tool brands in the world.

And one thing that DEWALT is most popular for is its drill accessories. DEWALT offers a great range of drill bits, ready to tackle your most demanding projects. Their steel drill bits are compatible with impact drivers, corded and cordless drilling machines for both home and commercial use. DEWALT offers many bits that are designed to cut stainless steel, and bits that are made for use on wood, plastic, PVC, and more.

Irwin Tools

If you are very involved in the drilling business, chances are that you have already heard about Irwin Tool’s drill bits by now.

This company produces some of the steel drill bits for metal, bits that experts swear by. You can find everything from conventional drills that are ideal for light-duty repairs to heavier bits designed for professional construction workers, to very heavy-duty projects involving masonry.

BOSCH

BOSCH is one of the most well-recognized power tool companies in the world, and anything that comes from the BOSCH brand is synonymous with quality, durability and performance. Its steel drill bits are no different. They offer some glass bits, tiles bits and also offer a damaged screw extractor.

Craftsman

If you are looking to skip the overwhelming search when creating a quality arsenal of proper steel drill bits, then Craftsman is an excellent choice to start your collection with.

Craftsman is a well-known household name. Craftsman produces amazing steel drill bits sets starting from 14 pieces that go as high up as 83 pieces and more. This brand sells a wide variety of bits including bits with cobalt, HSS and titanium. Therefore, finding your ideal steel drill bit set should be a piece of cake.

Mastercraft

Speaking of sets and kits, Mastercraft produces one of the most popular steel drill bit sets. It comprises a whopping 230 drill bits!

However, that’s not all the company is good at. You can find everything from cobalt and titanium bits to auger bits, and bits with a flat shank, a hex shanks, and so on. The quality is great and their prices are amazing. No reason why you can’t look into it!

Maintenance of Steel Drilling Bits

1. Stainless steel drills bits can reach searing temperatures, so always let your steel drill bits cool down before you touch them. Wait a while before you try to remove them from your drill and store them.
2. If your steel drill bit gets debris on it, use a dry or damp towel and wipe it off. Letting debris sit on bits can cut down on their longevity.
3. For stubborn debris and stains, use a toothbrush to brush off the gunk.
4. Many people put a light coat of machine oil on their drill bits to prevent them from rusting.
5. To make your steel drill bits last longer and to keep them sharper, invest in a drill bit sharpener.

FAQs on Steel Drill Bits

What are the best drill bits for stainless steel?

I love DEWALT DWA1240 cobalt bit Set with pilot point.

Would a DEWALT DWA1240 bit drill into a wheel stud on a car without breaking?

Yes, it would if you used some lubricating oil, but it’s better you use a center punch to mark the center and give the drill a center point.

Where are the DEWALT DWA1240 drill bits made?

The bits are made in Germany.

Can cobalt bits drill hard stainless steel?

Yes, they can drill hard stainless steel.

How brittle are cobalt bits compared to titanium bits?

Cobalt drill bits are a bit more brittle than the titanium bits.

Can the DEWALT DW1263 steel bits bore through ceramic tile or a cement wall?

No, you cannot use them to drill ceramic tile or cement. You need a masonry bit for that.

Can the Drill America KFDRSD bits bore into aluminum?

Aluminum is a softer metal and yes, you can use these bits on any hard or soft surfaces.

Can a Neiko 10194A Titanium Step Bit work on wood?

Neiko 10194A is one of the best step drill bit for stainless steel in the market. Neiko 10194A can drill into wooden materials and is perfect for DIY-work in your garage.

How long, in general, does a stainless steel bit last?

Well, that is difficult to answer since it depends on how frequently you use it. However, as a very rough estimate, you should get about 80 to 200 uses before the bit begins to get dull or chip. Keep in mind that the durability of a drill bit also depends on the coating on the drill bits you use.

The bits I used to drill stainless steel keep snapping, but my friend uses the same drill bit just fine. What am I doing wrong?

Hold the drill bit and the machine as straight and perpendicular against the material as possible. Do not apply too much pressure, and let the machine do all the work.

Conclusion

As stainless steel is a hard material, you must use a very strong, sharp bits to drill it. To buy the best drill bits for stainless steel, it is essential to look for the features that contribute to a longer life and a higher performance. Look for a bit that the manufacturer recommends for drilling metal.