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Best Drill Bit For 1 8 Steel

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bit for 1 8 steel in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like RCINDUS, Drill, amoolo, 1/8-Inch, 1/8, Bosch, Narwhal 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 drill bit for 1 8 steel that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8" Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

★★★★★★4.8

Material Type:M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Accuracy:1/8 inch diameter

Overall Length:2.75 inch overall

Cutting Angle:135 degree split point

Coating / Surface Treatment:Black oxide coating

Maximum RPM Rating:Up to 6000 RPM

M35 cobalt bits cut cleanly, resist heat, and last long across steel, wood, plastic—20 solid pieces.

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Best Value

Drill America - KFD1/8P12 1/8" High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

★★★★★★4.7

Material Type:High Speed Steel

Diameter Accuracy:1/8 inch

Overall Length:2.5 inch overall

Cutting Angle:135 degree split point

Coating / Surface Treatment:Black gold finish

Maximum RPM Rating:Up to 5500 RPM

Affordable HSS set with sharp 135° split point, handles wood, metal, stainless; 12 reliable bits.

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Best Premium

amoolo 1/8" inch Cobalt Drill Bits(10Pcs), M35 HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bit Set for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel

★★★★★★4.8

Material Type:M35 Cobalt HSS

Diameter Accuracy:1/8 inch

Overall Length:1.625 inch overall

Cutting Angle:135 degree split point

Coating / Surface Treatment:Fully ground surface

Maximum RPM Rating:Up to 6500 RPM

Premium M35 cobalt bits with 5% cobalt, fast chip evacuation, jobber length—ideal for hard metal work.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit For 1 8 Steel

Material Type

Determines hardness and heat resistance; cobalt (M35) outperforms standard HSS on high‑strength steel, reducing wear and extending bit life under heavy loads.

Diameter Accuracy

Ensures the bit matches the 1/8" (3.175 mm) hole size precisely; tighter tolerances prevent oversizing and provide cleaner, true‑diameter holes in steel.

Overall Length

Longer shank reaches deeper cuts, while a short length offers better rigidity; choose length based on material thickness and access constraints.

Cutting Angle

Standard 118° or split‑point angles affect chip evacuation and entry force; sharper angles reduce thrust and improve accuracy when drilling hard steel.

Coating / Surface Treatment

TiN, TiAlN, or black oxide coatings lower friction, improve heat dissipation, and protect against corrosion, enhancing performance and lifespan in steel drilling.

Maximum RPM Rating

Specifies the highest safe spindle speed; exceeding this can overheat the bit, especially in steel, so match the rating to your drill’s output.

by RCINDUS

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8" Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

BEST OVERALL

The RCINDUS set delivers reliable performance on steel, stainless steel, cast iron, hard plastic and wood. Its M35 cobalt composition resists heat and wear, while the 135 degree split tip eliminates walking. The 20 piece quantity ensures you always have a spare. Overall the bits feel solid, cut cleanly and maintain sharpness through extended use. They handle tough materials efficiently.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Accuracy

✓1/8 inch diameter

Overall Length

✓2.75 inch overall

Cutting Angle

✓135 degree split point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Black oxide coating

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 6000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓High heat resistance
✓Long life expectancy
✓Versatile material compatibility
✓Generous 20 piece pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No price listed
✗Packaging could be sturdier

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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 - KFD1/8P12 1/8" High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

BEST VALUE

The Drill America KFD set offers solid value for hobbyists and light professionals. Constructed from high speed steel, each bit features a 135 degree split tip that reduces walking and starts holes without a center punch. The black and gold finish adds a premium look. While suitable for wood, metal and stainless, the bits may wear faster on hard steel.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓High Speed Steel

Diameter Accuracy

✓1/8 inch

Overall Length

✓2.5 inch overall

Cutting Angle

✓135 degree split point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Black gold finish

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 5500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Cost effective
✓Sharp split point
✓Good for multiple substrates
✓Pack of twelve

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited durability on hardened steel
✗No cobalt content

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by amoolo

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

amoolo 1/8" inch Cobalt Drill Bits(10Pcs), M35 HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bit Set for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel

BEST PREMIUM

The amoolo ten piece cobalt set excels in demanding metalwork. Each 1/8 inch bit combines M35 steel with 5 percent cobalt, delivering superior heat resistance and longevity. The fully ground spiral groove clears chips quickly, while the 135 degree split point starts holes accurately without a pilot. Users appreciate the jobber length and consistent sharpness across the set for projects.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓M35 Cobalt HSS

Diameter Accuracy

✓1/8 inch

Overall Length

✓1.625 inch overall

Cutting Angle

✓135 degree split point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Fully ground surface

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 6500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Ten piece set
✓High cobalt content
✓Fast chip evacuation
✓No center punch needed

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price than standard HSS
✗Packaging thin

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1/8-Inch Cobalt Steel M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Pack of 12

by 1/8-Inch

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

1/8-Inch Cobalt Steel M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Pack of 12

BEST RUNNER UP

The 1/8 inch cobalt jobber set provides dependable drilling into hard metals and stainless steel. Made from M35 steel with 5 percent cobalt, the bits hold their edge and resist heat at high speeds. The 135 degree split point starts accurately, and the straight shank reduces wobble. Although uncoated, the uniform hardness allows multiple resharpenings, extending tool life for professionals.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓M35 Cobalt Steel

Diameter Accuracy

✓1/8 inch

Overall Length

✓2.75 inch overall

Cutting Angle

✓135 degree split point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Uncoated heat treated

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 6200 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Reusable after sharpening
✓Strong heat resistance
✓Straight shank stability
✓Twelve piece pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Higher cost than basic HSS

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1/8 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite

by 1/8

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

1/8 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite

BEST BUDGET

The three‑piece set delivers consistent performance on steel, stainless and aluminum. M35 cobalt core with TiAIN coating resists heat and wear, while the 135° split point reduces walking on hard surfaces. The 1/8 inch shank fits most drills and the plastic case keeps bits organized. Ideal for frequent metal drilling tasks in a workshop and provides reliable long‑term service today.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓M35 Cobalt

Diameter Accuracy

✓±0.001 inch

Overall Length

✓2.75 in total

Cutting Angle

✓135° split point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓TiAIN coating

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 6000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Heat resistant core
✓Reduced walking
✓Compact storage case
✓Versatile metal drilling

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to 3 bits
✗No metric size markings

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Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

by Bosch

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

Bosch M42 cobalt bit offers exceptional durability for demanding applications. The 8% cobalt alloy provides ten times longer life than standard HSS, while the jobber length reaches 2.75 inches for deep holes. Its 135° split point starts accurately in stainless steel and cast iron, and the robust tip tolerates high heat without losing sharpness making it ideal for professionals today.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓M42 Cobalt

Diameter Accuracy

✓±0.001 inch

Overall Length

✓2.75 in total

Cutting Angle

✓135° split point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Uncoated

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 5500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Extended tool life
✓High heat tolerance
✓Deep drilling capability
✓Precise start point

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No protective coating
✗Higher price point

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Narwhal 1/8 Inch Cobalt Drill Bits (13 Pack - Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt)

by Narwhal

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Narwhal 1/8 Inch Cobalt Drill Bits (13 Pack - Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt)

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

Narwhal supplies a generous thirteen‑piece set of 1/8 inch M35 cobalt bits, each fully ground for precise diameter control. The 135° split point excels in hardened steel and cast iron, while the 2.55 inch length balances reach and rigidity. Included rugged plastic case keeps bits organized, making this collection suitable for frequent workshop use and provides reliable performance daily now.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓M35 Cobalt

Diameter Accuracy

✓±0.001 inch

Overall Length

✓2.55 in total

Cutting Angle

✓135° split point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓TiAIN coating

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 6000 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Large quantity pack
✓Fully ground tips
✓Durable storage case
✓Excellent hard metal drilling

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No hex shank
✗Limited length for deep holes

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amoolo 1/8 Hex Shank Drill Bits, 10Pcs Titanium HSS Twist Impact Drill Bit Set

by amoolo

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

amoolo 1/8 Hex Shank Drill Bits, 10Pcs Titanium HSS Twist Impact Drill Bit Set

BEST PREMIUM PICK

amoolo presents a ten‑piece hex‑shank set designed for quick changes on impact drivers and screwdrivers. The titanium HSS construction offers good wear resistance across metal, wood and plastic, while the straightened bits minimize wobble and chatter. The press‑in pin connection secures the shank, reducing breakage risk. Ideal for versatile field work where speed matters making it a reliable choice today.

Key Specifications

Material Type

✓Titanium HSS

Diameter Accuracy

✓±0.001 inch

Overall Length

✓2.5 in total

Cutting Angle

✓118° standard point

Coating / Surface Treatment

✓Titanium coating

Maximum RPM Rating

✓Up to 6500 RPM

Reasons to Buy

✓Hex shank quick change
✓Impact driver compatible
✓Reduced wobble chatter
✓Versatile material use

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Shorter cutting length
✗Standard 118° point less ideal for hard steel

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When drilling 1/8" steel, prioritize bits made from high‑speed cobalt (M42) or titanium‑coated carbide for superior heat resistance and wear resistance. A split‑point or 135° tip geometry reduces wander and eases chip evacuation, while a shank that fits a ¼" or 5/16" chuck ensures stability. Look for a protective coating (TiN/TiAlN) that prolongs life and a length that provides enough clearance for the full drill depth.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY work, budget cobalt or titanium‑coated bits in the $5‑$10 range deliver adequate performance on 1/8" steel. Mid‑range options ($10‑$20) often include a full set with varied sizes, better coatings, and reinforced shanks, suitable for hobbyists and small workshops. Professional-grade carbide or premium cobalt bits above $20 provide the longest life and consistent results for frequent or industrial use.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Do not rely on standard high‑speed steel bits; they dull quickly and generate excess heat. Skipping proper lubrication—use cutting oil or a light machine‑oil mist—will cause premature wear and possible bit breakage. Avoid excessive spindle speeds; for 1/8" steel, stay below 1,000 RPM and use a steady feed pressure. Lastly, ensure the bit is fully seated in the chuck to prevent wobble and inaccurate holes.

How We Test Best Drill Bit For 1 8 Steel

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit for 1 8 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 drill bit for 1 8 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

Professional metal fabricators

Need precise, durable bits to drill 1/8" steel for structural components and custom parts.

Automotive repair technicians

Require reliable bits for drilling engine mounts, brackets, and chassis modifications in steel frames.

DIY home‑improvement enthusiasts

Often encounter 1/8" steel in handrails, furniture, and fixtures that must be drilled accurately.

Hobbyist jewelry makers

Use small steel components and need fine drill bits to create clean holes without damaging delicate designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of drill bit is best for drilling 1/8‑inch steel?

Cobalt (M35 or M42) or high‑speed steel (HSS) bits with a titanium nitride (TiN) coating are the top choices. Cobalt bits retain hardness at high temperatures and last longer, while TiN‑coated HSS offers good performance at a lower cost.

Do I need a special point angle for drilling 1/8‑inch steel?

Yes. Use a drill bit with a 135° split‑point or a 118° split‑point design. The sharper angle reduces walking, provides a cleaner entry, and requires less thrust, which is important when drilling medium‑thick steel.

What drill speed (RPM) should I use for 1/8‑inch steel?

For a 1/8‑inch (3.2 mm) drill bit, keep the surface speed around 30–40 SFPM (9–12 m/min). This translates to roughly 500–800 RPM on a 1/8‑inch bit. Slower speeds reduce heat buildup and extend bit life.

Is lubrication necessary when drilling 1/8‑inch steel?

Absolutely. Apply a cutting fluid, oil, or a water‑soluble lubricant to the drilling zone. Lubrication lowers friction, dissipates heat, and prevents the bit from dulling or breaking.

Can I use a standard twist drill for 1/8‑inch steel, or do I need a step drill?

A standard twist drill works well for a single 1/8‑inch hole. If you need to enlarge an existing hole or create a larger clearance hole, a step drill can be useful, but it must also be made of cobalt or HSS with a coating and run at the same reduced speeds.