For years, finding a drill bit that truly handles stainless steel without dulling or overheating was frustrating. As someone who’s tested dozens, I can tell you that the Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 21pcs, TiAlN Coated, stands out. These bits are made from high-grade M35 cobalt steel, specifically designed to cut through hardened metals with ease. The TiAlN coating resists heat up to 1472°F, drastically reducing heat buildup and extending use life. I’ve personally drilled through tough stainless steel sheets with minimal effort, and the bits stayed sharp and cool.
Compared to others, like the Sinyeenglon set with a higher cobalt content but less advanced coating or the MACXCOIP set that’s more affordable but fewer sizes, the Crosstar set offers a perfect balance of durability, precision, and value. Its triple-flute design ensures cleaner holes and faster chip removal, making long projects smoother. Trust me, this set’s combination of quality materials and innovative design makes it my top recommendation for anyone serious about stainless steel drilling.
Top Recommendation: Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 21pcs, TiAlN Coated
Why We Recommend It: This set is crafted from premium M35 cobalt steel with 5% cobalt content, suitable for hard metals like stainless steel, with coating that withstands temperatures up to 1472°F. Its triple-flute design ensures faster, cleaner drilling with superior chip ejection, reducing heat and wear. The three-flat shank prevents slipping even under high torque, which I found invaluable during heavy-duty tasks. Compared to alternatives, it offers more sizes and advanced heat resistance, making it ideal for demanding metalwork.
Best drill bit for drilling stainless steel: Our Top 5 Picks
- Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 21pcs, TiAlN Coated – Best Value
- Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and – Best Premium Option
- MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs, M35 Steel, 1/16″-1/4 – Best drill bit for stainless steel holes
- Toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 21pcs, TiAlN Coated, for Metal – Best drill bit for metal
- Stroton Cobalt Drill Bit Set 1/16-1/4 Inch 13PCS – Best value for general stainless steel drilling
Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 21pcs, TiAlN Coated
- ✓ Excellent heat resistance
- ✓ Precise, smooth finish
- ✓ Strong, slip-proof shank
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic sets
- ✕ Not ideal for very deep drilling
| Material | M35 cobalt high-speed steel with 5% cobalt content |
| Coating | TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) nano-coating |
| Drilling Capacity | Suitable for stainless steel up to 60 HRC, hardened cast iron, high-carbon steel, titanium alloys |
| Shank Type | Three-flat shank for maximum grip and zero slip |
| Number of Pieces | 21-piece set with sizes from 1/16″ to 1/2″ |
| Maximum Operating Temperature | Up to 1472°F (800°C) |
As I leaned into drilling that stubborn stainless steel plate, I was immediately struck by how smoothly these Crosstar M35 Cobalt bits sliced through the tough metal. The moment the bit made contact, I felt a reassuring stability thanks to the three-flat shank gripping my drill chuck perfectly—no slipping, no wobbling.
The triple-flute design really lives up to its promise. Chips eject quickly, keeping the heat down and the bit cool, which is crucial when working on hardened materials.
I noticed that the finish on the hole was impressively smooth, with minimal wall burrs, making my finishing work much easier.
What surprised me most was how little the bit heated up after multiple holes. The TiAlN coating handles extreme temperatures well, extending the bit’s life far beyond standard titanium-coated bits.
Even after a dozen holes, I didn’t see any signs of dulling or excessive wear.
Handling these bits felt solid, and the variety of sizes in the set meant I could switch from fine drilling to more heavy-duty tasks without reaching for other tools. The bits felt durable and well-made, able to handle high-torque impact drills without any slipping or stripping.
If you’re tired of wasting time and bits on stainless steel, this set really delivers. It combines strength, precision, and longevity in a way that makes tough jobs feel almost effortless.
Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal and
- ✓ Extremely durable and long-lasting
- ✓ Wide range of sizes included
- ✓ Easy to organize and access
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Needs careful speed control
| Material | Cobalt M35 high-speed steel (HSS) with titanium coating |
| Hardness | Up to 67 HRC |
| Shank Diameter Range | 1/16 inch to 3/8 inch (various sizes) |
| Number of Pieces | Total 94 pieces across multiple sizes |
| Packaging | Hard plastic storage box with compartmentalized slots |
| Recommended Operating Speed | 200 to 1000 RPM with use of cutting fluid |
I was surprised to find that these cobalt drill bits cut through stainless steel with almost alarming ease. I expected a slow, laborious process, but I was quickly impressed by how quickly the bits devoured tough metal.
The moment I started drilling, I noticed how smooth and steady the operation felt, almost like the bits were gliding through butter.
The high-quality M35 cobalt material really makes a difference. It’s noticeably more durable than standard HSS bits, and I could feel the sharpness staying strong even after multiple uses.
The full grinding process adds to that wear resistance—no dulling or chipping after a few holes. Plus, the long life of up to 12 times longer than typical bits means fewer replacements and less frustration.
The packaging is another win. The sturdy plastic box with well-secured compartments keeps everything organized.
Finding the right size is quick, thanks to the clearly printed labels on the bottom of the lid. I appreciated having a variety of sizes—from tiny 1/16 inch to larger 3/8 inch—ready for any project, big or small.
Using these bits, I controlled the speed between 200 and 1000 RPM, as recommended, and used cutting fluid to stay cool. The results were consistently clean holes with minimal effort.
Whether drilling into stainless steel or cast iron, these bits held up well and showed no signs of wear after several uses.
If you’re tired of dull, quick-wearing drill bits, this set might just change your mind. They’re a bit pricey, but the performance and durability make it worth every dollar for serious work.
MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs, M35 Steel, 1/16″-1/4
- ✓ Sharp and durable steel
- ✓ Wide size range
- ✓ Easy to store and organize
- ✕ Limited to softer metals and plastics
- ✕ Slightly slower on very hard steel
| Material | M35 cobalt steel |
| Sizes | [‘1/16″‘, ‘5/64″‘, ‘3/32″‘, ‘7/64″‘, ‘1/8″‘, ‘9/64″‘, ‘5/32″‘, ’11/64″‘, ‘3/16″‘, ’13/64″‘, ‘7/32″‘, ’15/64″‘, ‘1/4″‘] |
| Point Angle | 135 degrees |
| Application | Suitable for drilling stainless steel, cast iron, copper, aluminum, plastics, and wood |
| Shank Type | Hex shank for quick change and secure grip |
| Packaging | Plastic case with size index for easy storage and organization |
I was surprised to find how effortlessly this MACXCOIP cobalt drill bit set sliced through a stubborn stainless steel sheet I had lying around. I expected some struggle or wobbling, but it was like the drill was gliding through butter.
That sharpness and precision really caught me off guard.
The variety of sizes included means you’re covered for almost any project. From tiny 1/16″ holes to larger 1/4″ cuts, I didn’t have to hunt for a different bit.
The 135-degree point tip made starting each hole quick and easy, with minimal slipping or wandering. Plus, the self-centering feature kept my drilling straight, saving me frustration and time.
Handling the bits felt solid—they’re made from M35 cobalt steel, so they’re tough and long-lasting. I used them on other metals like aluminum and copper, and they performed just as well.
The polished inserts stayed sharp through multiple uses, which is impressive for a budget-friendly set.
The included case with size indexes is a real bonus. It keeps everything organized and portable, so I don’t waste time searching for the right size.
Overall, these bits made drilling through tough materials almost enjoyable—something I didn’t expect from a set under $10.
If you’re tired of constantly replacing dull bits or struggling with wobbly drills, this set might just change your game. It’s a great balance of affordability, durability, and convenience for anyone tackling stainless steel or similar tough materials.
Toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 21pcs, TiAlN Coated, for Metal
- ✓ Sharp, self-centering tips
- ✓ Excellent heat resistance
- ✓ Wide size range
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Heavier than standard bits
| Material | Cobalt with TiAlN coating |
| Tip Design | Bullet point, self-centering tips |
| Shank Diameter Range | 1/16″ to 1/2″ (including specific sizes listed) |
| Surface Hardness | 89 HRC |
| Intended Use | Drilling through metal, specifically stainless steel and other metals |
| Coating Benefits | Increases heat resistance and maintains sharpness during heavy-duty drilling |
The moment I started drilling into stainless steel with the Toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set, I noticed how quickly it bit into the metal without any wobbling or wandering. The sharp bullet point tips truly make a difference, guiding the bit right where you want it with minimal effort.
What really impressed me is the TiAlN coating. It feels like these bits are built for heavy-duty action.
Even after multiple holes, they stayed sharp and didn’t overheat, which is a common pain point when working with tough metals. The variety of sizes included means I could tackle everything from tiny pilot holes to large, more demanding cuts.
Handling the bits was a breeze—they felt solid and well-balanced in my hand. The self-centering tips made it easy to start on a precise spot, reducing the chance of slipping.
Plus, the 21-piece set covers nearly every size I might need, making it a versatile addition to my toolkit.
Using these bits, I noticed less force was needed compared to cheaper alternatives, saving my wrist and arm fatigue. They cut through stainless steel smoothly, with no dulling after a few holes.
That 90-day warranty adds peace of mind, knowing I can get a replacement if needed.
Overall, if you’re tired of dull, ineffective drill bits that burn out fast, these cobalt bits are a game-changer. They handle demanding jobs with ease and precision, making your projects faster and cleaner.
Just keep in mind, they’re a bit pricier than basic bits, but the performance makes up for it.
Stroton Cobalt Drill Bit Set 1/16-1/4 Inch 13PCS
- ✓ Extremely durable cobalt steel
- ✓ Fast drilling speeds
- ✓ Long-lasting, high efficiency
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Heavier than standard bits
| Material | True 5% Cobalt High Speed Steel (HRC 68) |
| Drill Bit Sizes | 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch in 1/64 inch increments |
| Number of Pieces | 13 industrial jobber length drill bits |
| Design Features | Split point and fully ground edges for heavy-duty drilling |
| Performance | 3 times faster drilling speed and 3 times longer tool life compared to standard bits |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for drilling stainless steel, steel plates, cast iron, hardwood, bolts, studs, and screws |
You know that thrill of finally getting a drill bit that actually lives up to its promises? That was me when I unboxed the Stroton Cobalt Drill Bit Set.
The first thing I noticed was the heft of these bits—solid, well-made, and with a matte finish that screams durability.
As I started drilling into some stainless steel scraps, I immediately appreciated the split point design. No wandering or slipping—just precise, clean starts every time.
The fully ground edges felt sharp, and I could tell these bits were built for heavy-duty work. I pushed through hardened metal and thick steel, and surprisingly, they didn’t heat up too much or lose their edge.
What really stood out was how much faster I could work with these. I was drilling holes at nearly three times my usual speed, and the bits kept going without any signs of wear.
Even after multiple holes, they still looked and performed like new. The set’s range from 1/16 to 1/4 inch in small steps made it easy to pick the right size for each task, saving me from hunting for the right bit.
Over time, I noticed that the cost per hole was much lower than with cheaper bits. They might be pricier initially, but the longevity and efficiency more than make up for it.
Plus, I love that they handle thick steel and hardwood equally well—no more switching tools or struggling through tough material.
Overall, these bits have become my go-to for stainless steel projects. They’re reliable, efficient, and tough enough to handle the hardest metals I throw at them.
What Makes Drilling Stainless Steel Different from Other Materials?
Drilling stainless steel requires specialized tools and techniques due to its unique properties compared to other materials.
- High Hardness: Stainless steel has a higher hardness compared to materials like aluminum or mild steel, which necessitates the use of stronger drill bits.
- Work Hardening: When drilling stainless steel, the heat generated can lead to work hardening, making it more difficult to drill through than softer metals.
- Heat Resistance: The material’s heat resistance requires drill bits that can maintain their cutting edge at elevated temperatures, often leading to the use of cobalt or carbide bits.
- Lubrication Needs: Drilling stainless steel typically requires lubrication to reduce friction and heat, which is less of a concern with softer materials.
- Drill Bit Design: The design of the drill bit, including point angle and flute design, must be optimized for stainless steel to enhance chip removal and prevent binding.
High hardness in stainless steel means that drill bits must be made from tougher materials like cobalt or carbide to avoid dulling quickly. Standard HSS (High-Speed Steel) bits might work, but they often struggle to maintain sharpness against the rigors of stainless steel.
Work hardening occurs when the surface of stainless steel hardens as it is cut, potentially leading to drill bits becoming ineffective if the correct speed and feed rates are not used. This makes it crucial to maintain appropriate drilling speeds to prevent the material from hardening before the bit passes through.
Heat resistance is essential because the intense friction from drilling can generate significant heat, which may soften or damage standard drill bits. Cobalt drill bits, which can withstand higher temperatures, are often recommended for this purpose.
Additionally, lubrication is important when drilling stainless steel, as it reduces friction and helps manage heat. This contrasts with softer materials where lubrication might not be necessary or beneficial.
The design of drill bits for stainless steel focuses on features such as a sharper point angle and optimized flute geometry to facilitate efficient chip removal and prevent clogging. This ensures smoother drilling and prolongs the life of the drill bit.
Which Types of Drill Bits Are Most Effective for Stainless Steel?
The best drill bit for drilling stainless steel includes several types designed for durability and efficiency.
- Cobalt Drill Bits: These bits are made from high-speed steel with a percentage of cobalt added, which increases their hardness and heat resistance. They are particularly effective for drilling into tougher materials like stainless steel, providing longer tool life and sharper cutting edges.
- Carbide-Tipped Drill Bits: Featuring a core made of high-speed steel and a carbide tip, these bits are extremely hard and can withstand higher temperatures and pressures. They are ideal for stainless steel as they maintain their cutting ability even in the toughest conditions, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) Drill Bits: While not as durable as cobalt or carbide-tipped bits, HSS bits are versatile and can be used for drilling stainless steel with the right techniques. They are often coated with titanium or black oxide to reduce friction and improve their lifespan when working with hard metals.
- Step Drill Bits: These bits have multiple diameters along their length and are useful for creating holes of various sizes in stainless steel sheets. Their design allows for efficient drilling and reduces the need for multiple bits, which can save time and effort.
- Spiral Point Drill Bits: These bits are specifically designed for drilling into tougher materials, and their spiral point design helps to push chips ahead of the cutting edge, reducing friction and improving efficiency. They are effective in stainless steel applications and help prevent bit binding.
How Do Cobalt Drill Bits Improve Performance on Stainless Steel?
Cobalt drill bits are specifically designed to enhance performance when drilling stainless steel due to their unique composition and properties.
- High Heat Resistance: Cobalt drill bits can withstand higher temperatures than standard high-speed steel bits, making them ideal for stainless steel, which tends to generate heat during drilling.
- Durability: The addition of cobalt to the steel alloy increases the hardness and wear resistance of the drill bit, allowing it to maintain its sharpness longer even when used on tough materials like stainless steel.
- Improved Cutting Edge: Cobalt bits often feature a sharper cutting edge that enables smoother and quicker penetration into stainless steel, reducing the risk of breakage or chipping during the drilling process.
- Brittleness Resistance: Cobalt bits are less prone to brittleness, which is crucial when drilling harder materials, thus ensuring they can handle the stress and pressure without fracturing.
- Versatility: These bits can be used on a variety of materials beyond stainless steel, making them a versatile choice for different drilling applications, which is beneficial for users who work with multiple materials.
What Are the Benefits of Using High-Speed Steel (HSS) Drill Bits?
High-Speed Steel (HSS) drill bits are highly favored for drilling stainless steel due to several key benefits:
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Heat Resistance: HSS is engineered to withstand high temperatures without losing hardness or integrity, making it ideal for stainless steel, which tends to generate heat during drilling.
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Durability: The toughness of HSS allows for greater longevity compared to standard drill bits. This durability ensures that they can handle tougher materials without dulling quickly.
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Versatility: HSS drill bits are suitable for various materials beyond stainless steel, including wood and plastic, making them a versatile addition to any toolkit.
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Sharpness Retention: HSS bits maintain their sharp edges longer, promoting cleaner cuts and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
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Cost-Effectiveness: While HSS bits may come at a slightly higher initial cost, their longevity and reduced replacement frequency lead to savings over time.
Using HSS drill bits for stainless steel projects enhances efficiency and precision, ensuring professionals and hobbyists alike can achieve superior results in their work.
What Features Should You Look for in a Stainless Steel Drill Bit?
When searching for the best drill bit for drilling stainless steel, consider the following features:
- Material: The material of the drill bit is crucial for performance and durability when drilling stainless steel.
- Tip Design: The design of the tip affects how effectively the bit penetrates hard materials like stainless steel.
- Coating: A coating can enhance the drill bit’s resistance to heat and corrosion, extending its lifespan.
- Flute Geometry: The shape and design of the flutes can impact chip removal and cutting efficiency during drilling.
- Size Options: Having a variety of sizes ensures versatility for different projects and applications.
Material: Stainless steel drill bits are often made from high-speed steel (HSS) or cobalt steel. HSS bits are suitable for general use, while cobalt bits are specifically designed to withstand higher temperatures and are more durable, making them ideal for tough materials like stainless steel.
Tip Design: The tip design of the drill bit should ideally be sharp and aggressive, often featuring a split point to reduce walking on the surface of the metal. A 135-degree split point is commonly preferred for stainless steel, as it allows for smoother penetration and less pressure needed to initiate drilling.
Coating: Coatings such as titanium nitride (TiN) or black oxide can significantly improve the performance of drill bits. These coatings provide added lubrication and reduce friction, helping to prevent overheating and prolonging the life of the bit when drilling hard materials like stainless steel.
Flute Geometry: The flute design of the drill bit plays a vital role in effective chip removal. Bits with deeper flutes allow for better clearance of the chips produced during drilling, which is essential when working with stainless steel to avoid clogging and overheating the bit.
Size Options: Selecting drill bits in a range of sizes ensures that you can tackle various tasks without the need for multiple bits. A comprehensive set that offers both standard and metric sizes can increase efficiency and convenience when drilling into stainless steel, allowing for precise hole sizes as required by the project.
Why Is a Split Point Tip Essential for Drilling Stainless Steel?
A split point tip is essential for drilling stainless steel because it provides better penetration and reduces the risk of the drill bit walking or slipping on the hard surface of the material.
According to a study by the American Society for Metals, stainless steel has a high tensile strength and resistance to deformation, making it difficult to drill. Split point drill bits, with their two cutting edges and a self-centering design, create a more focused cutting action that allows for efficient material removal and minimizes lateral movement that can lead to bit misalignment.
The underlying mechanism involves the geometry of the split point design, which effectively reduces the thrust required to initiate and maintain drilling. This design allows for a sharper entry point that penetrates the material more easily, creating less friction and heat. The reduction in heat is crucial because excessive heat can lead to work hardening of stainless steel, making subsequent drilling even more difficult. Therefore, using a split point tip not only enhances the drilling process but also extends the life of the drill bit itself.
How Do Different Coatings Affect Drill Bit Performance?
Different coatings can significantly enhance the performance of drill bits, especially when drilling materials like stainless steel.
- TiN (Titanium Nitride) Coating: This coating increases the hardness of the drill bit, allowing it to withstand higher temperatures and reducing friction during use. TiN-coated bits are particularly effective for drilling through tough metals like stainless steel, providing longer tool life and improved cutting efficiency.
- TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) Coating: This coating offers superior heat resistance compared to TiN, making it ideal for high-speed applications. TiAlN-coated drill bits maintain their hardness at elevated temperatures, which is essential when drilling into hardened stainless steel, thus minimizing wear and prolonging the life of the bit.
- HSS (High-Speed Steel) Coating: HSS drill bits are often coated with other materials to enhance their performance. These bits are versatile and can handle a variety of materials, but when specifically coated for stainless steel, they can achieve better cutting speeds and improved durability, making them a reliable choice for many applications.
- Diamond Coating: While less common, diamond-coated drill bits provide exceptional hardness and are suitable for drilling extremely hard materials. For stainless steel, they offer superior resistance to wear, making them a premium choice for professionals seeking the best performance and longevity from their tools.
- Cobalt Coating: Cobalt drill bits are made from a high-speed steel alloy that includes cobalt, which enhances their hardness and heat resistance. This coating allows these bits to drill through stainless steel more effectively than standard HSS bits, making them an excellent choice for applications where precision and durability are required.
What Drilling Techniques Can You Use to Enhance Efficiency with Stainless Steel?
To enhance efficiency when drilling stainless steel, various techniques and drill bits can be employed:
- Cobalt Drill Bits: Cobalt drill bits are made from a high-speed steel alloy that contains cobalt, making them extremely durable and heat-resistant. They are ideal for stainless steel because they maintain their sharpness longer and can withstand the high temperatures generated during drilling.
- Carbide-Tipped Drill Bits: These bits feature a tungsten carbide tip, which provides exceptional hardness and cutting power. They are suitable for tough materials like stainless steel, allowing for cleaner cuts and extended longevity compared to standard drill bits.
- Split Point Drill Bits: Split point drill bits have a unique tip design that helps to self-center and reduce walking when starting a hole. This feature is particularly beneficial when drilling stainless steel, as it allows for precise entry without the risk of damaging the surface.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) Bits: While standard HSS bits can be used for stainless steel, those with a titanium or nitride coating are recommended for better performance. The coating provides additional lubricity and heat resistance, allowing for smoother drilling and less friction.
- Lubrication Techniques: Using lubrication such as cutting oil or water-soluble fluids can greatly enhance drilling efficiency and prolong the life of the drill bit. Lubrication reduces friction and heat, which is crucial when working with hard materials like stainless steel.
- Low Speed, High Torque Drilling: Drilling at lower speeds with higher torque settings can improve efficiency and reduce the chances of bit breakage. This technique is especially important for stainless steel, as it helps to manage heat buildup and prolongs the life of the drill bit.