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Best Drill Bit To Use On Stainless Steel

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bit to use on stainless steel in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like MACXCOIP, BOSCH, NordWolf, Crosstar, 13pcs, STROTON, toolant, DEWALT 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 to use on stainless steel that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-1/4"

★★★★★★4.8

Material Composition:M35 cobalt steel

Size Range:1/16" to 1/4"

Tip Angle:135 degree tip

Coating Type:Uncoated HSS

Shank Design:Standard round shank

Length / Overall Size:Jobber length 3"

M35 cobalt construction with 135° split point, 13 sizes, and a sturdy case—reliable drilling across metals and plastics.

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Best Value

BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case - Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal

★★★★★★4.6

Material Composition:M42 cobalt alloy

Size Range:1/8" to 1/2"

Tip Angle:135 degree tip

Coating Type:Uncoated HSS

Shank Design:Three flat shank

Length / Overall Size:Jobber length 3"

M42 cobalt bits resist heat, 135° tip, three‑flat shank, versatile metal range, compact case—great budget performance.

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Best Premium

NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals, with 1/4" Hex Shank for Quick Chucks & Impact Drivers, SAE Sizes 3/32"-1/8"-3/16"-1/4"-5/16" in Storage Box

★★★★★★4.7

Material Composition:M35 cobalt steel

Size Range:3/32" to 5/16"

Tip Angle:135 degree split

Coating Type:Uncoated tip

Shank Design:1/4" hex shank

Length / Overall Size:Stubby length 2"

Stubby M35 cobalt bits with 1/4" hex shank deliver precise, rapid holes in tight spaces and hard metals.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit To Use On Stainless Steel

Material Composition

Determines hardness and heat resistance; cobalt (M35) or high‑speed steel bits cut stainless steel faster and last longer without dulling.

Size Range

Diameter options from 1/16" to 1/4" (or larger) let users drill the exact hole size needed for fittings, bolts, and tubing.

Tip Angle

A 135° split‑point tip reduces walk‑off, starts the cut quickly, and improves chip evacuation when drilling tough stainless steel.

Coating Type

Surface treatments such as TiN, black oxide or nitride lower friction, extend bit life, and help keep temperatures down during heavy cuts.

Shank Design

Straight or SDS‑plus shanks affect tool compatibility, grip strength, and vibration control, essential for accurate drilling with hand‑held or column drills.

Length / Overall Size

Jobber‑length bits provide a balance of rigidity and reach, while extra‑long options are needed for deep holes in thick stainless plates.

by MACXCOIP

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16"-1/4"

BEST OVERALL

The MACXCOIP set delivers reliable drilling in stainless steel thanks to its M35 cobalt steel construction and 135 degree split point that reduces walk and speeds chip removal. Thirteen sizes from 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch cover most household and professional tasks, while the included case keeps bits organized for quick access on the job and reliable performance daily everywhere.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Tip Angle

✓135 degree tip

Coating Type

✓Uncoated HSS

Shank Design

✓Standard round shank

Length / Overall Size

✓Jobber length 3"

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size selection
✓Self centering tip
✓Durable for hard metals
✓Comes with storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No cobalt coating
✗Higher price than basic sets

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by BOSCH

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case - Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bits with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, and Light-Gauge Metal

BEST VALUE

Bosch CO14B offers excellent value for drilling stainless steel, cast iron and titanium thanks to its M42 cobalt alloy that tolerates high temperatures without losing hardness. The 135 degree tip provides clean entry while the three flat shank fits quick‑change chucks. A modest size range keeps the set affordable, and the included case simplifies transport for workshop use daily tasks.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M42 cobalt alloy

Size Range

✓1/8" to 1/2"

Tip Angle

✓135 degree tip

Coating Type

✓Uncoated HSS

Shank Design

✓Three flat shank

Length / Overall Size

✓Jobber length 3"

Reasons to Buy

✓High heat resistance
✓Long tool life
✓Versatile metal compatibility
✓Compact storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited size range
✗No TiN coating

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by NordWolf

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set for Stainless Steel & Hard Metals, with 1/4" Hex Shank for Quick Chucks & Impact Drivers, SAE Sizes 3/32"-1/8"-3/16"-1/4"-5/16" in Storage Box

BEST PREMIUM

NordWolf delivers a powerful stubby set that excels in tight spaces where longer bits cannot reach. M35 cobalt steel and a 135 degree split point ensure rapid penetration of stainless steel and titanium, while the 1/4 inch hex shank works seamlessly with impact drivers. The short 2 inch length provides excellent control for precise holes in demanding projects every day.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓3/32" to 5/16"

Tip Angle

✓135 degree split

Coating Type

✓Uncoated tip

Shank Design

✓1/4" hex shank

Length / Overall Size

✓Stubby length 2"

Reasons to Buy

✓Compact stubby design
✓Hex shank for quick change
✓Self centering tip
✓Durable for hard metals

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to larger sizes
✗No protective coating

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Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal & Stainless Steel - 21pcs Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN), Three-Flute Design, 1/16"-1/2" Metal Drill Bits

by Crosstar

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Crosstar M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Hardened Metal & Stainless Steel - 21pcs Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN), Three-Flute Design, 1/16"-1/2" Metal Drill Bits

BEST RUNNER UP

Crosstar combines M35 cobalt steel with a durable TiAlN nano coating to tackle hardened stainless steel and titanium up to 60 HRC. The triple‑flute geometry improves chip evacuation and hole roundness, while the 135 degree tip starts cuts cleanly. A generous 1/16 to 1/2 inch range makes it versatile, though the premium price reflects its advanced design for professional use.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Tip Angle

✓135 degree tip

Coating Type

✓TiAlN coating

Shank Design

✓Three flute shank

Length / Overall Size

✓Standard length 3"

Reasons to Buy

✓TiAlN heat resistant
✓Triple flute efficiency
✓Wide size range
✓Sharp for hard metals

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher cost
✗Coarse for delicate work

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13pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set, M35 High Speed Steel 135 Degree Tip Twist Jobber Drill Bits Set for Hardened Metal Stainless Steel Cast Iron Wood Plastic with Index Storage Box (1/16"-1/4")

by 13pcs

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

13pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set, M35 High Speed Steel 135 Degree Tip Twist Jobber Drill Bits Set for Hardened Metal Stainless Steel Cast Iron Wood Plastic with Index Storage Box (1/16"-1/4")

BEST BUDGET

The 13‑piece M35 cobalt set offers a cost‑effective solution for drilling stainless steel and cast iron. Its 135° split point reduces feed pressure while the twist design clears chips quickly. Sizes run from 1/16" to 1/4" in 1/64" steps, fitting most hand drills. Durable construction provides three times the life of standard HSS bits making it ideal for frequent use.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓M35 cobalt steel

Size Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Tip Angle

✓135° split point

Coating Type

✓no coating

Shank Design

✓jobber shank

Length / Overall Size

✓standard length

Reasons to Buy

✓Cost effective set
✓Long tool life
✓Fine size increments
✓Self centering tip

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No coating
✗Limited to 1/4" max

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STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set (1/16-1/4 Inch, 13PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Plastic and Wood

by STROTON

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set (1/16-1/4 Inch, 13PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel, Hard Metal, Cast Iron, Plastic and Wood

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

STROTON delivers a true 5% cobalt alloy with 68 HRC hardness, giving exceptional heat and wear resistance for stainless steel work. The split point and fully ground geometry start on contact, reducing wobble. Available in 13 sizes from 1/16" to 1/4", the set suits both metal and wood. Faster drilling cuts overall project time while maintaining high precision results consistently.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓5% cobalt alloy

Size Range

✓1/16" to 1/4"

Tip Angle

✓split point design

Coating Type

✓no coating

Shank Design

✓jobber shank

Length / Overall Size

✓standard length

Reasons to Buy

✓True cobalt content
✓High hardness rating
✓Fast drilling speed
✓Versatile material use

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price point
✗No coating

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toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro), Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN) with Bullet Point Tip, for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, 21pcs 1/16"-1/2"

by toolant

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal and Steel (Pro), Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coated (TiAlN) with Bullet Point Tip, for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, 21pcs 1/16"-1/2"

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

toolant 21‑piece cobalt set features TiAlN coating that raises surface hardness to 89 HRC, allowing rapid penetration of hardened steel and stainless. Bullet point tips provide straight entry and reduce walk. Size range spans 1/16" to 1/2" covering most applications. The coated shank resists wear and the overall length balances rigidity and clearance for deep holes in demanding industrial tasks.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓cobalt steel core

Size Range

✓1/16" to 1/2"

Tip Angle

✓bullet point tip

Coating Type

✓TiAlN coating

Shank Design

✓coated shank

Length / Overall Size

✓balanced overall length

Reasons to Buy

✓TiAlN heat resistance
✓Bullet tip accuracy
✓Large size range
✓Durable coated shank

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Larger set size may be bulky
✗Higher cost

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

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

BEST PREMIUM PICK

DEWALT DW1361 offers 21 titanium nitride coated pilot point bits that start on contact for clean holes. The coating extends life while the pilot tip reduces walking on stainless surfaces. Sizes from 1/16" to 3/8" provide versatile coverage. The shank lacks spin, ensuring straight alignment in high‑speed drills for consistent results making it a reliable choice for professional workshops today.

Key Specifications

Material Composition

✓high speed steel

Size Range

✓1/16" to 3/8"

Tip Angle

✓pilot point tip

Coating Type

✓titanium nitride

Shank Design

✓spin‑free shank

Length / Overall Size

✓standard overall length

Reasons to Buy

✓Pilot tip reduces walk
✓TiN extends life
✓Spin‑free shank
✓Wide size range

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No cobalt alloy
✗Limited max size 3/8"

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When drilling stainless steel, prioritize bits made from cobalt‑based alloys (e.g., M35, M42) or high‑speed steel with a titanium nitride coating. These materials retain hardness at elevated temperatures and resist wear. Look for a 135° split‑point tip, which reduces walking and improves chip evacuation, and a fluted design that promotes coolant flow. A shank compatible with a chuck‑key or SDS‑plus system adds stability and reduces wobble.

Budget Recommendations

Entry‑level users can expect to spend $15‑$30 for a 4‑piece cobalt set that covers common diameters (1/8"–1/2"). Mid‑range professionals typically invest $40‑$70 in a 10‑piece titanium‑coated HSS set, offering a balance of durability and cost. For heavy‑duty or frequent machining, premium cobalt or carbide sets range from $90‑$150, delivering longer tool life and consistent performance on thick or hardened grades.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Do not rely on standard carbon‑steel bits; they dull rapidly and can seize, causing workpiece damage. Skipping proper lubrication—use a water‑soluble cutting fluid or oil—leads to overheating and loss of edge hardness. Also, avoid excessive feed rates; a slow, steady push lets the bit cut, while high speed without coolant can warp the bit and warp the stainless surface.

How We Test Best Drill Bit To Use On Stainless Steel

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit to use on 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 drill bit to use on 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

They frequently drill precise holes in stainless‑steel components for structural and manufacturing projects.

Automotive mechanics

Repairing or modifying stainless‑steel exhausts, brackets, and fuel lines requires durable, heat‑resistant drill bits.

Home DIY enthusiasts

Projects like stainless‑steel kitchen backsplashes or custom furniture need a reliable bit to avoid cracking or dulling.

Jewelry makers

Creating intricate stainless‑steel pieces demands a fine‑tuned bit that can handle hard material without compromising detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of drill bit is best for drilling stainless steel?

Cobalt‑alloy (M35 or M42) or high‑speed steel (HSS) bits that are titanium‑nitride (TiN) coated work best. Cobalt bits retain hardness at high temperatures and cut faster, while TiN‑coated HSS bits reduce friction and extend tool life.

Why shouldn’t I use regular HSS bits on stainless steel?

Standard HSS loses hardness quickly when it gets hot, and stainless steel generates a lot of heat while drilling. This leads to rapid dulling, burr formation, and possible bit breakage. Specialized bits stay sharp longer and handle the heat better.

What drill speed (RPM) should I use when drilling stainless steel?

Use a low to moderate speed: typically 500–800 RPM for a ¼‑inch (6 mm) bit. Larger diameters require even slower speeds. The goal is to keep the cutting edge cool; if the bit starts to glow, reduce the RPM or increase lubrication.

Is cutting fluid or lubricant necessary?

Yes. Apply a water‑soluble cutting oil, light machine oil, or dedicated stainless‑steel lubricant. It reduces heat, improves chip evacuation, and extends the life of the bit. Re‑apply frequently during drilling.

How can I prevent the drill bit from binding or breaking in stainless steel?

1️⃣ Use a pilot hole (½‑to‑⅔ of the final diameter) with a smaller cobalt or TiN‑coated bit. 2️⃣ Keep steady, moderate pressure—let the bit do the work. 3️⃣ Periodically withdraw the bit to clear chips and re‑lubricate. 4️⃣ Ensure the workpiece is firmly clamped to avoid vibration.