Top 5 Best Drills For Stainless Steel

Richard Shafer | 05-02-2026

Drilling into stainless steel can quickly wear out ordinary drill bits, leading to frustration, wasted time, and poor results. Stainless steel’s hardness and heat resistance demand specialized bits that can handle tough materials without dulling or breaking.

This guide reviews the best drill bit sets designed specifically for stainless steel, including cobalt, titanium, and step drill options. We’ll help you understand which features matter most, compare top-rated sets, and explain how to choose the right bit for your projects—whether you’re a DIYer or a seasoned pro.

Editor's Choice
DEWALT Titanium Nitride 21-Piece Drill Bit Set
DEWALT Titanium Nitride 21-Piece Drill Bit Set
Premium Pick
MACXCOIP 13-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Kit
MACXCOIP 13-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Kit
Budget Pick
NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set
NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set

Top 5 Best Drills For Stainless Steel

By examining product features, customer reviews, and real-world usage, we compared leading Drills For Stainless Steel products and selected our top picks.

1. MACXCOIP 13-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Kit

Best for Hardened Metal Versatility
MACXCOIP 13-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Kit
9.5

Macxcoip

Check Price On Amazon

Drilling through stainless steel, iron, and other tough metals requires bits that can handle repeated stress without losing their edge. Many standard sets struggle with both hard and soft materials, limiting their usefulness.

The MACXCOIP M35 Cobalt kit is built for versatility, offering a range of sizes and a robust M35 cobalt construction. It's a practical choice for users who need one set to cover everything from stainless steel to plastics, making it ideal for varied workshop tasks.

  • M35 Cobalt Steel: Delivers durability and sharpness for cutting hard and soft metals
  • 135° Point Tip: Self-centering design prevents walking and speeds up drilling
  • Compact Storage Case: Keeps bits organized and easy to access

Compared to single-material sets, this kit balances toughness and flexibility. The tradeoff is a smaller size range than some larger kits, but it covers the most commonly used diameters for everyday projects.

Strength
  • M35 cobalt for hard metals
  • Covers wide range of materials
  • Self-centering tip
  • Easy storage case
  • Long-term usability
Weakness
  • Limited to 13 sizes
  • Not for oversized holes

2. Bosch 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Set

Best for High-Heat and Tough Metals
Bosch 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Set

When working with stainless steel or titanium, heat buildup can quickly dull or damage ordinary bits. This is a common issue for those drilling multiple holes or working on thick, abrasive metals.

The Bosch M42 Cobalt set is designed to withstand high temperatures and tough applications, thanks to its M42 alloy with 8% cobalt. It's well-suited for users tackling demanding jobs where longevity and stability are critical.

  • M42 Cobalt Alloy: Withstands high heat and abrasive materials for extended use
  • Thick Web-Helix Design: Adds stability and resists breakage in tough applications
  • Surface-Hardened Tip: Penetrates hard, abrasive metals more easily

Compared to standard cobalt or HSS sets, this Bosch kit prioritizes heat resistance and durability. The main tradeoff is a slightly higher cost per bit, but it pays off for those needing reliable performance on the hardest metals.

Strength
  • M42 cobalt for extreme durability
  • Handles high-heat drilling
  • Stable thick web design
  • Surface-hardened tips
  • Covers key sizes
Weakness
  • Higher price point
  • Not as many sizes as larger sets

3. NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set

Best for Tight Spaces and Quick Change
NordWolf 5-Piece M35 Cobalt Stubby Drill Bit Set
9.1

Nordwolf

Check Price On Amazon

Standard-length drill bits can be difficult to use in confined areas, making certain repairs or installations frustrating. Accessing tight spots often requires shorter, more maneuverable bits.

The NordWolf M35 Cobalt Stubby set is designed specifically for tight spaces and quick changes, thanks to its compact length and 1/4-inch hex shank. It's ideal for users working in cabinetry, automotive, or any setting where space is limited.

  • Stubby Length Design: Fits into tight or awkward spaces where standard bits can't reach
  • 1/4-Inch Hex Shank: Compatible with quick-change chucks and drivers for fast swaps
  • M35 Cobalt Steel: Provides durability and long life for hard metal drilling

Compared to traditional jobber-length sets, this kit prioritizes maneuverability and speed of use. The main tradeoff is a limited size range, but it covers the most common diameters for repairs and installations.

Strength
  • Fits tight spaces
  • Quick-change hex shank
  • Durable M35 cobalt steel
  • Easy-to-identify packaging
  • Good for hard metals
Weakness
  • Only 5 sizes included
  • Not suited for deep holes

4. STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set 13PCS M35

Best for Heavy-Duty Longevity
STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set 13PCS M35
8.9

Stroton

Check Price On Amazon

Frequent drilling in stainless steel and other hard metals can quickly wear down ordinary bits, leading to increased costs and downtime. For those tackling heavy-duty work, longevity is a key concern.

The STROTON 13-piece set uses true 5% cobalt steel sourced from its own mine, delivering impressive wear and chip resistance. It's a strong choice for users who need a set that can handle repeated, demanding use without frequent replacement.

  • True 5% Cobalt Steel: Provides up to 3x tool life and heat resistance
  • Split Point and Ground Process: Reduces walking and enables fast, accurate drilling
  • Jobber Length Variety: Covers essential sizes for metalwork and bolt removal

Compared to lower-cobalt or generic sets, this kit prioritizes durability and efficiency. The tradeoff is a higher upfront cost, but it delivers lower cost per hole over time.

Strength
  • High cobalt content
  • Long tool life
  • Efficient drilling
  • Suitable for heavy-duty tasks
  • Sharp cutting edge
Weakness
  • Higher price per set
  • Limited to 13 sizes

5. toolant 21-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro

Best for Heavy-Duty Metal Drilling
toolant 21-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro
7.7

Toolant

Check Price On Amazon

Heavy-duty drilling in stainless steel and other metals can quickly wear out lesser bits, leading to frequent replacements and inconsistent results. For demanding projects, a robust set is essential.

The toolant Cobalt Drill Bit Set Pro offers a comprehensive range of sizes and features a titanium aluminum nitride coating for added hardness. It's a strong fit for users who need reliable performance across a variety of heavy-duty metalworking tasks.

  • Titanium Aluminum Nitride Coating: Boosts surface hardness and heat resistance
  • Bullet Point Tips: Self-centering for precise, accurate drilling
  • 21-Piece Size Range: Covers most common drilling needs in metalwork

Compared to smaller or less specialized sets, this kit prioritizes durability and coverage for tough jobs. The tradeoff is a larger storage case and a focus on metal rather than multi-material use.

Strength
  • Wide range of sizes
  • High surface hardness
  • Self-centering bullet tips
  • Engineered for heavy-duty use
  • Includes warranty
Weakness
  • Bulkier storage case
  • Primarily for metal applications

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Drills for Stainless Steel

Drilling into stainless steel is a technical task that demands the right bit material, geometry, and size. Buyers often face tradeoffs between durability, cost, and the range of sizes included. Many assume all metal drill bits are equal, but stainless steel's hardness and heat resistance make it essential to choose bits specifically engineered for the job.

Choosing Between Cobalt and Titanium-Coated Bits

Cobalt bits are the gold standard for stainless steel, offering superior heat resistance and longevity. Titanium-coated bits are a solid choice for lighter-duty or mixed-material work, but may dull faster on hard metals. For frequent or demanding use, cobalt is worth the investment.

When to Choose a Step Drill Bit Set

Step drill bits are best for users who need to drill multiple hole sizes in sheet metal or thin stainless steel. They reduce the need for bit changes and provide cleaner holes in softer metals. However, they're not ideal for thick materials or deep holes.

The Value of a Comprehensive Size Range

A larger set ensures you always have the right size on hand, which is crucial for precision work or repairs. If you frequently work on varied projects, a 21- or 29-piece set can save time and frustration. For occasional use or tight spaces, a compact or stubby set may be more practical.

Storage, Organization, and Replacement Needs

Well-organized cases and multiple bits per size are valuable for high-volume users or shared workshops. Kits with clear labeling and compartmentalized storage make it easier to keep track of bits and reduce downtime.

Final Buying Advice

Choosing the right drill bit set for stainless steel comes down to matching your usage needs with the right material, size range, and features. Avoid overbuying features you won't use, but don't underestimate the demands of stainless steel.

By focusing on your real-world needs and understanding the differences between bit types, you can confidently select a set that delivers reliable results and long-term value.

FAQ For Drills For Stainless Steel

1. What type of drill bit is best for stainless steel?

Cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42) are best for stainless steel due to their heat resistance and durability. Titanium-coated bits work for lighter-duty tasks but may dull faster.

2. Can I use regular HSS drill bits on stainless steel?

Standard HSS bits can be used, but they will dull quickly and may not cut efficiently. Cobalt or titanium-coated bits are recommended for better results.

3. What is the advantage of a step drill bit?

Step drill bits allow you to drill multiple hole sizes in thin materials like sheet metal without changing bits, saving time and improving efficiency.

4. How do I prevent drill bits from overheating?

Use cutting fluid or oil, drill at lower speeds, and apply steady pressure. This helps reduce heat buildup and extends bit life.

5. Is a larger drill bit set always better?

A larger set offers more size options but can be bulkier and more expensive. Choose based on your typical project needs and available storage.

6. How do I know when to replace a drill bit?

Replace bits when they become dull, chipped, or no longer cut cleanly. Using worn bits can damage your workpiece and increase drilling effort.

Related Posts