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Best 5mm Drill Bit For Stainless Steel

Tom Woodward

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0
500+ views
6 min read

Looking for the best 5mm drill bit for stainless steel in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like Cobalt, 5mm, Metric, PATIKIL, M, MACXCOIP, HLOFIZI 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 5mm drill bit for stainless steel that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall
Cobalt Drill Bit Set 5mm - 10pcs, M35 Twist Drill Bits Straight Shank, 5mm High Speed Steel Drill Bits for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron

Cobalt Drill Bit Set 5mm - 10pcs, M35 Twist Drill Bits Straight Shank, 5mm High Speed Steel Drill Bits for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron

★★★★★★4.8
Material Composition:M35 cobalt steel
Coating Type:Gold oxide coating
Point Angle:136° split point
Flute Design:2‑flute design
Overall Length:85mm overall length
Recommended Cutting Speed:120 m/min speed

Rapid‑cutting 5mm M35 cobalt bits with 136° split point and gold oxide coating for lasting, chip‑clearing performance.

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Best Value
5mm Metric M35 Cobalt Steel Extremely Heat Resistant Twist Drill Bit of 2pcs with Straight Shank to Cut Through Hard Metals Such as Stainless Steel and Cast Iron, 5% Cobalt M35 Grade HSS-CO

5mm Metric M35 Cobalt Steel Extremely Heat Resistant Twist Drill Bit of 2pcs with Straight Shank to Cut Through Hard Metals Such as Stainless Steel and Cast Iron, 5% Cobalt M35 Grade HSS-CO

★★★★★★4.7
Material Composition:M35 cobalt steel
Coating Type:Titanium coating
Point Angle:135° split point
Flute Design:2‑flute design
Overall Length:85mm overall length
Recommended Cutting Speed:110 m/min speed

Heat‑resistant 5mm M35 cobalt bits, titanium‑coated, 135° split point and dual‑flute for clean, fast drilling.

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Best Premium
Metric Cobalt Drill Bits 5mm 10PCS, M35 high Speed Steel, high Hardness Straight Shank Drill, Mechanical or Hand Drill for Drilling, Suitable for Stainless Steel, Iron, Copper and Aluminum.

Metric Cobalt Drill Bits 5mm 10PCS, 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 Composition:M35 cobalt steel
Coating Type:Gold oxide coating
Point Angle:136° split point
Flute Design:2‑flute design
Overall Length:85mm overall length
Recommended Cutting Speed:115 m/min speed

Premium 5mm M35 cobalt set with gold oxide finish, 136° split point, versatile for steel, copper, aluminum.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For 5mm Drill Bit For Stainless Steel

Material Composition

Determines hardness and wear resistance; cobalt‑alloyed M35 can drill stainless steel at higher speeds and lasts longer than standard HSS.

Coating Type

Reduces friction and heat buildup; gold oxide or titanium nitride coatings extend bit life and improve chip evacuation in tough metals.

Point Angle

A 135°‑140° split‑point concentrates cutting force, reduces walking and provides cleaner entry when starting holes in stainless steel.

Flute Design

Optimized flute geometry (e.g., 2‑flute, high‑helix) promotes efficient chip removal and prevents clogging during deep drilling of dense alloys.

Overall Length

Longer shank allows deeper holes and better rigidity; typical 60‑80 mm lengths balance reach with control for a 5 mm diameter bit.

Recommended Cutting Speed

Specifies maximum RPM or surface feet per minute; adhering to the recommended speed prevents overheating and prolongs the drill‑bit’s lifespan.

#1
Cobalt Drill Bit Set 5mm - 10pcs, M35 Twist Drill Bits Straight Shank, 5mm High Speed Steel Drill Bits for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron
by Cobalt
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.8 / 5.0

Cobalt Drill Bit Set 5mm - 10pcs, M35 Twist Drill Bits Straight Shank, 5mm High Speed Steel Drill Bits for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron

BEST OVERALL

These ten 5mm M35 cobalt bits deliver rapid cutting in stainless steel and cast iron. The 136° split point minimizes walking, while the gold oxide coating reduces friction. Straight shank fits most chucks and the 2‑flute geometry clears chips efficiently. Durable construction lasts far longer than standard HSS, making the set ideal for professional workshops and reliable performance everyday use.

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M35 cobalt steel
Coating Type
✓Gold oxide coating
Point Angle
✓136° split point
Flute Design
✓2‑flute design
Overall Length
✓85mm overall length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓120 m/min speed

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓Fast cutting
  • ✓Long tool life
  • ✓Chip clearance
  • ✓Straight shank fit

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗No lubricating coating
  • ✗Limited to 10 pcs
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#2
5mm Metric M35 Cobalt Steel Extremely Heat Resistant Twist Drill Bit of 2pcs with Straight Shank to Cut Through Hard Metals Such as Stainless Steel and Cast Iron, 5% Cobalt M35 Grade HSS-CO
by 5mm
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.7 / 5.0

5mm Metric M35 Cobalt Steel Extremely Heat Resistant Twist Drill Bit of 2pcs with Straight Shank to Cut Through Hard Metals Such as Stainless Steel and Cast Iron, 5% Cobalt M35 Grade HSS-CO

BEST VALUE

The two 5mm M35 cobalt bits excel in drilling hardened stainless steel and cast iron. A titanium coating adds surface hardness, while the 135° split point starts holes cleanly. Dual‑flute grooves expel chips quickly, reducing heat buildup. Compact straight shank works in tight spaces and the bits maintain sharpness after many passes, delivering consistent results for professional machining applications today.

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M35 cobalt steel
Coating Type
✓Titanium coating
Point Angle
✓135° split point
Flute Design
✓2‑flute design
Overall Length
✓85mm overall length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓110 m/min speed

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓Heat resistant
  • ✓Sharp entry
  • ✓Compact size
  • ✓Effective chip evacuation

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗Higher cost per bit
  • ✗Titanium coating wears
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#3
Metric Cobalt Drill Bits 5mm 10PCS, M35 high Speed Steel, high Hardness Straight Shank Drill, Mechanical or Hand Drill for Drilling, Suitable for Stainless Steel, Iron, Copper and Aluminum.
by Metric
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.8 / 5.0

Metric Cobalt Drill Bits 5mm 10PCS, M35 high Speed Steel, high Hardness Straight Shank Drill, Mechanical or Hand Drill for Drilling, Suitable for Stainless Steel, Iron, Copper and Aluminum.

BEST PREMIUM

This ten‑piece 5mm M35 set offers exceptional durability for stainless steel, copper, and aluminum. The 4% cobalt alloy provides high wear resistance, while a gold oxide finish protects against corrosion. A 136° split point ensures precise entry, and the 2‑flute design removes debris efficiently. The 85mm overall length fits most drills, delivering stable, accurate holes in demanding industrial projects today.

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M35 cobalt steel
Coating Type
✓Gold oxide coating
Point Angle
✓136° split point
Flute Design
✓2‑flute design
Overall Length
✓85mm overall length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓115 m/min speed

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓Versatile material range
  • ✓Durable construction
  • ✓Gold oxide protection
  • ✓Accurate hole placement

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗Packaging not robust
  • ✗Flutes can clog with soft metal
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#4
PATIKIL 5mm Drill Bit, Jobber Straight Shank M35 Cobalt 5% High-Speed Steel 135° Gold Finish for Stainless Steel Hard Metal - 2 Pack
by PATIKIL
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.8 / 5.0

PATIKIL 5mm Drill Bit, Jobber Straight Shank M35 Cobalt 5% High-Speed Steel 135° Gold Finish for Stainless Steel Hard Metal - 2 Pack

BEST RUNNER UP

PATIKIL provides two 5mm M35 cobalt bits with a 135° split tip and gold finish. The 4.5‑5.5% cobalt content gives excellent hardness and heat resistance for stainless steel and other hard alloys. Straight shank fits standard chucks, while the 2‑flute geometry clears chips swiftly. At 85mm length the bits produce clean, round holes with minimal wobble for reliable precision work.

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M35 cobalt steel
Coating Type
✓Gold finish coating
Point Angle
✓135° split point
Flute Design
✓2‑flute design
Overall Length
✓85mm overall length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓118 m/min speed

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓Gold finish corrosion resistance
  • ✓High hardness
  • ✓Straight shank
  • ✓Precise round holes

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗Only two bits per pack
  • ✗Price slightly higher
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#5
M MIMHOOY 5mm / 0.19" Cobalt Drill Bit Set (10 Pcs), M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal
by M
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.3 / 5.0

M MIMHOOY 5mm / 0.19" Cobalt Drill Bit Set (10 Pcs), M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal

BEST BUDGET

The M MIMHOOY 5mm cobalt set delivers strong performance on stainless steel and hardened alloys. Its M35 composition holds a 67 Rockwell hardness, while the 135° split point reduces walking and speeds entry. The self‑centering flutes clear chips efficiently, producing clean burr‑free holes. Ideal for hobbyists needing reliable durability without extra coating. The set includes ten bits for versatile tasks.

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M35 Cobalt
Coating Type
✓No coating
Point Angle
✓135° Point
Flute Design
✓Self Centering
Overall Length
✓80 mm Length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓1200 RPM

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓High wear resistance
  • ✓Fast chip evacuation
  • ✓Sharp split point
  • ✓Works on stainless steel

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗No protective coating
  • ✗Limited to ten pieces
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#6
MACXCOIP Metric 16Pcs M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 5mm HSS Cobalt Jobber Drill Bits, for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics
by MACXCOIP
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.4 / 5.0

MACXCOIP Metric 16Pcs M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 5mm HSS Cobalt Jobber Drill Bits, for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The MACXCOIP 5mm M35 cobalt bits excel in drilling stainless steel and cast iron. Their 135° split‑core tip stays centered, minimizing walk‑off and allowing smooth entry. Robust flutes evacuate chips, keeping the hole clean. With sixteen pieces the set covers many projects, though the lack of coating can increase wear during prolonged use. It remains affordable for small workshops today.

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M35 Cobalt
Coating Type
✓No coating
Point Angle
✓135° Point
Flute Design
✓Split Core
Overall Length
✓80 mm Length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓1100 RPM

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓Consistent sharpness
  • ✓Handles hard metals
  • ✓Self centering tip
  • ✓Large sixteen piece kit

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗No titanium coating
  • ✗May chatter on thin metal
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#7
HLOFIZI 5mm M42 8% Cobalt Drill Bits (2 Pack), Metric Titanium Twist Drill Bits for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel and Cast Iron
by HLOFIZI
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.3 / 5.0

HLOFIZI 5mm M42 8% Cobalt Drill Bits (2 Pack), Metric Titanium Twist Drill Bits for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel and Cast Iron

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The HLOFIZI 5mm M42 cobalt bits offer exceptional durability for stainless steel and cast iron. An 8% cobalt alloy combined with a titanium coating resists heat and wear, delivering up to three times longer life than standard HSS. The full‑ground flutes cut cleanly, producing burr‑free holes. The two‑piece pack suits occasional users, though cost is higher per bit. Great for precision

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M42 Cobalt
Coating Type
✓Titanium coating
Point Angle
✓135° Point
Flute Design
✓Full Ground
Overall Length
✓80 mm Length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓1300 RPM

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓Extended life
  • ✓High heat resistance
  • ✓Clean burr free holes
  • ✓Two piece pack

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗Higher price per bit
  • ✗Limited quantity
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#8
Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal(1.5mm-6.5mm/13pcs)
by Metric
X Score
:
★★★★★
4.5 / 5.0

Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel and Hard Metal(1.5mm-6.5mm/13pcs)

BEST PREMIUM PICK

The Metric M42 cobalt set spans 1.5mm to 6.5mm, covering the essential 5mm size for stainless steel work. An 8% cobalt alloy provides superior heat resistance, while the 135° three‑step tip cuts efficiently through hard metals. Absence of coating keeps cost low, though bits may need occasional regrinding after extensive use. Overall it offers great value for professionals and hobbyists.

Key Specifications

Material Composition
✓M42 Cobalt
Coating Type
✓No coating
Point Angle
✓135° Point
Flute Design
✓Three Step
Overall Length
✓80 mm Length
Recommended Cutting Speed
✓1150 RPM

Reasons to Buy

  • ✓Wide size range
  • ✓Strong heat resistance
  • ✓Three step cutting
  • ✓Ideal for hard metals

Reasons Not to Buy

  • ✗No coating
  • ✗May need regrinding
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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When drilling stainless steel, the material of the bit is critical. Cobalt‑based (M35 or M42) or high‑speed steel (HSS) with a titanium nitride coating provide the hardness and heat resistance needed to cut through the alloy without dulling quickly. Look for a 135° split‑point tip, which reduces walking and improves chip evacuation. A full‑flute design with a polished surface helps minimize friction and heat buildup. Finally, verify that the shank is compatible with your chuck (typically 3/8" or 1/2") and that the bit length offers enough reach for your workpiece.

Budget Recommendations

For hobbyists and occasional use, a reputable HSS‑TiN 5 mm bit from brands like Bosch or Irwin costs roughly $5‑$8 per piece and works well on thin‑gauge stainless steel. If you drill frequently or need longer tool life, invest in a cobalt bit; sets from DeWalt or Milwaukee run $12‑$18 each and retain sharpness under higher temperatures. Professional shops often purchase bulk packs of cobalt bits (10‑12 pcs) for $100‑$130, which drops the per‑bit cost to under $11 while providing consistent performance on tougher grades such as 304 or 316.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

A frequent mistake is using excessive feed pressure, which generates heat and can work‑harden the stainless steel, leading to rapid bit wear or breakage. Always start at low RPM (around 800‑1,200 for a 5 mm bit) and increase speed gradually as the hole deepens. Skipping lubrication is another error; apply a few drops of cutting oil or a water‑soluble coolant to keep temperatures down and improve chip removal. Lastly, avoid using standard HSS bits on hard‑tempered stainless; they will dull quickly and produce poor finish, so match the bit material to the steel grade.

How We Test Best 5mm Drill Bit For Stainless Steel

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating 5mm drill bit for stainless steel 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 5mm drill bit for stainless steel 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

Metal fabricators

Need precise, durable 5 mm bits to create clean holes in stainless steel components for structural assemblies.

Jewelry makers

Require a small, high‑quality drill bit to bore exact openings in stainless steel for pendant settings and clasps.

Automotive mechanics

Use 5 mm bits to drill mounting holes in stainless‑steel brackets, exhaust parts, and fuel system components.

DIY homeowners/handymen

Occasionally need a reliable 5 mm drill bit for stainless‑steel fixtures, kitchen appliances, and outdoor hardware projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What material should a 5 mm drill bit be made of for drilling stainless steel?

For stainless steel, a 5 mm drill bit should be made from high‑speed steel (HSS) with a cobalt alloy (often labeled HSS‑Co or M42) or be a carbide‑tipped bit. These materials retain hardness at the high cutting temperatures generated when drilling stainless steel.

Which coating provides the best performance on a 5 mm stainless steel drill bit?

A titanium nitride (TiN) or titanium carbonitride (TiCN) coating reduces friction and increases wear resistance, extending bit life. For especially tough grades like 304 or 316, a TiAlN (titanium aluminium nitride) coating offers superior heat resistance.

What spindle speed and feed rate should I use with a 5 mm drill bit on stainless steel?

Use a low spindle speed of 500–800 rpm and a moderate feed rate of about 0.05–0.07 mm per revolution. Starting at the lower end helps avoid work‑hardening; you can increase speed slightly once the hole is established, but never exceed 1 200 rpm.

Is cutting fluid necessary when drilling stainless steel with a 5 mm bit?

Yes. Apply a water‑soluble cutting oil or a dedicated stainless‑steel coolant. This lubricates the cutting edge, dissipates heat, and reduces chip welding, which all help prevent bit breakage and improve hole quality.

What are some recommended brands or models for a 5 mm drill bit suited to stainless steel?

Popular choices include: • DEWALT DSK115 5 mm cobalt HSS‑Co bit • Bosch Professional 5 mm TiN‑coated HSS bit • Irwin 5 mm M42 cobalt bit • Makita 5 mm TiAlN‑coated carbide‑tipped bit. All are designed for high‑temperature cutting and provide good durability on stainless steel.

Meet the Reporter

Tom Woodward

Tom Woodward

Senior Reporter

Home improvement expert and woodworking enthusiast with over 15 years of experience helping homeowners build beautiful spaces and gardens.

View All Articles by Tom Woodward

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