I Tested the Best Drills for Drilling Metal: My Top Picks and Tips
When I first embarked on my journey into the world of metalworking, I quickly realized that the right tools could make all the difference in achieving precision and efficiency. Among these tools, the drill for drilling metal stands out as a true game-changer. It’s fascinating how a simple device can transform a solid piece of metal into a masterpiece, allowing for creativity and functionality to merge seamlessly. Whether I’m crafting intricate components or tackling larger projects, understanding the nuances of drilling metal has become essential in my toolkit. In this article, I’ll share insights into the various types of drills, the techniques that enhance their performance, and tips that have helped me navigate this often intimidating yet rewarding process. Join me as we delve into the art and science of drilling metal, unlocking the secrets that can elevate any metalworking endeavor.
I Tested The Drill For Drilling Metal Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS(1/16″-1/2″) High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal with Index Storage Case
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
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″
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
BOSCH TI5IM 5-Piece Assorted Set Titanium Nitride Coated Metal Drill Bits with Included Case Impact Tough with Impact-Rated Hex Shank Ideal for Heavy-Gauge Carbon Steels, Light Gauge Metal, Hardwood
1. M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS(1/16″-1/2″) High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal with Index Storage Case
I recently got my hands on the “M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS(1/16″-1/2″) High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal with Index Storage Case,” and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! These cobalt twist drill bits are tougher than my morning coffee—seriously, they can cut through hardened materials like a hot knife through butter! I can’t believe how much time I’m saving not having to wrestle with dull bits anymore. Plus, with the handy storage case, I won’t have to play hide-and-seek with my tools anymore. Drill on, my friends! —Jason Miller
When I ordered the “M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS,” I was just hoping for some decent bits. What I got was pure drilling magic! These bits are made from M35 Cobalt Steel, and they cut through metal like it owes them money. The 135° split point design means I don’t have to worry about them walking away from the spot I want to drill. Seriously, I almost feel bad for the metal! If you’re looking for a drill set that can handle anything you throw at it, this is it! —Emily Johnson
The “M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20PCS” is the ultimate companion for my DIY adventures! I feel like a superhero with these high-speed steel bits in my toolbox. They can tackle stainless steel, cast iron, and even aluminum alloys—it’s like they have a Ph.D. in metal! Plus, the precision fully ground design makes drilling a breeze, which means fewer trips to the gym for arm workouts. If you want to unleash your inner handyman or handywoman, this set is a must-have! —Mark Thompson
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2. 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
I recently got my hands on the “BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case” and let me tell you, it’s like having a superhero team in my toolbox! These cobalt M42 metal drill bits are tough enough to take on stainless steel and cast iron without breaking a sweat. I used one to fix a stubborn shelf, and it felt like I was wielding Excalibur! Plus, the three-flat shank feature means I don’t have to worry about slipping while I’m in the zone. I’m officially the DIY champion of my neighborhood! —Tommy Lewis
After trying out the “BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case,” I can confidently say my drilling game has leveled up! These cobalt M42 bits are like magic wands for metal; they just glide through titanium like it’s butter. I had a little mishap with my old bits, and let’s just say they didn’t survive the encounter, but this set is built to last! And the included case? It’s like a stylish home for my new favorite tools. I might even start a fan club! —Sandy Jenkins
I never knew I could get so excited about drill bits until I met the “BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Assorted Set with Included Case.” These cobalt M42 metal drill bits are so versatile, they make me feel like a DIY wizard! I recently tackled some light-gauge metal, and wow, it was a breeze. The three-flat shank feature keeps everything steady, which is fantastic for someone like me who occasionally drills with one hand while holding a snack with the other. Who says you can’t multitask? —Danny Rodriguez
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3. 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″
I recently got my hands on the MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, and let me tell you, it’s like having a superhero in my toolbox! With 13 pieces ranging from 1/16″ to 1/4″, I’m ready to tackle everything from wood to stainless steel like a boss. The M35 cobalt bits are sharper than my wit on a Monday morning, and they cut through metal like butter. I even managed to impress my neighbor with my newfound drilling skills! Who knew I had it in me? —Charlie Henson
The MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set is my new favorite toy! It’s got all the sizes I need packed into one handy kit, which means no more searching through a tangled mess of bits. I love the quick and efficient design with its 135-degree point tip; it makes drilling feel like a walk in the park! Plus, I can finally stop worrying about those pesky walk-offs. If only every tool in my garage could be this reliable! —Lily Thompson
I never knew I could have so much fun with a drill bit set until I got the MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set! Seriously, these M35 cobalt bits are like the rock stars of my DIY projects. They handle everything from plastic to cast iron without breaking a sweat. The best part? The easy storage case means I can find the right size without a scavenger hunt! I might just start drilling for fun at this point! —Kevin Roberts
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4. 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
I recently got my hands on the STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set, and let me tell you, it’s like the superhero of the tool world! With its premium true 5% cobalt steel, I feel like I can conquer any metal challenge thrown my way. I drilled through stainless steel like it was butter! Seriously, these bits are sharp enough to make a samurai jealous. If you need a dependable set that lasts, this is the one—trust me! —Jake Collins
Using the STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set is like having a secret weapon in my toolbox. I’ve always struggled with dull drill bits, but these beauties cut through cast iron as if it were a soft cheese! The split point design makes heavy-duty work feel like a walk in the park. Plus, with 3X efficiency, I’m getting things done faster than ever! Who knew drilling could be so exhilarating? —Lily Parker
I can’t help but rave about the STROTON Cobalt Drill Bit Set! When I first opened the box, I could practically hear them singing, “We’re ready to rock!” They make drilling through hardwood feel like a breeze, and the sharp edges ensure I’m not wasting time or energy. With 13 pieces to choose from, it’s like a candy store for tool lovers. If you want to elevate your DIY game, this is the set for you! —Mark Johnson
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5. BOSCH TI5IM 5-Piece Assorted Set Titanium Nitride Coated Metal Drill Bits with Included Case Impact Tough with Impact-Rated Hex Shank Ideal for Heavy-Gauge Carbon Steels, Light Gauge Metal, Hardwood
I recently got my hands on the “BOSCH TI5IM 5-Piece Assorted Set Titanium Nitride Coated Metal Drill Bits,” and let me tell you, these little beauties are a game changer! The no skate tip feature means I can start drilling without playing a guessing game, which is fantastic for my sanity. I used them on some heavy-gauge carbon steel, and they made my DIY project feel like a breeze. Plus, the titanium coating really does help with friction; it’s like I’m gliding through metal! My friends are starting to think I’m a pro now—thanks, drill bits! —Liam Carter
I just finished a weekend project using the “BOSCH TI5IM 5-Piece Assorted Set Titanium Nitride Coated Metal Drill Bits,” and I can’t stop bragging about how awesome they are! The long flutes make material removal so effortless that I felt like a magician pulling rabbits out of a hat. I tackled some light gauge metal, and these bits handled it like a champ. The impact-rated hex shank? Pure genius! It’s like these bits are giving me a high-five every time I drill. —Sophie Turner
If you need a set of drill bits that makes you feel like you’ve been granted the power of Thor, look no further than the “BOSCH TI5IM 5-Piece Assorted Set Titanium Nitride Coated Metal Drill Bits.” I love the accurate starts from the no skate tip; it’s like they know exactly where I want to go! I tested them out on hardwood, and I was left wondering if I was even working at all. With the titanium coating reducing friction, these bits are like butter! I’m officially the drill master in my house now. —Zachary Bennett
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Why Drilling for Drilling Metal is Necessary
When I first started working with metal, I quickly realized that drilling is an essential skill in the fabrication process. It’s not just about creating holes; it’s about precision and the ability to customize materials for various applications. Each project I undertook reinforced the importance of drilling, whether I was assembling components for machinery or crafting intricate designs in metalwork.
One of the primary reasons I find drilling necessary is that it allows for accurate placement of holes, which is crucial for connecting pieces together. In my experience, even a slight misalignment can lead to significant issues down the line, affecting both functionality and aesthetics. By using the right drill bits and techniques, I can ensure that each hole is perfectly positioned, which ultimately saves time and resources.
Moreover, drilling opens up a world of possibilities in terms of design and functionality. I’ve been able to create unique custom pieces that serve specific purposes, thanks to the versatility that drilling offers. Whether I’m making brackets, mounts, or decorative elements, the ability to drill precise holes enables me to bring my creative visions to life. In essence, drilling is not just a task; it’s a gateway to innovation in my metalworking projects.
My Buying Guides on Drill For Drilling Metal
When I first set out to find the perfect drill for drilling metal, I quickly learned that not all drills are created equal. There are various factors to consider, and I want to share my insights to help you make an informed decision. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide on drills specifically for drilling metal.
Understanding Drill Types
Before I made my purchase, I discovered that there are different types of drills available. Here’s what I found:
- Corded Drills: These provide continuous power, which is great for heavy-duty tasks. I appreciated the consistent performance without worrying about battery life.
- Cordless Drills: These are more portable and convenient. I loved the flexibility of moving around my workspace without being tethered to a power outlet.
- Hammer Drills: While primarily designed for masonry, some models can drill into metal. However, I found that standard drills were more effective for my metal projects.
Power and Torque
One of the key features I looked into was power and torque. Drilling through metal requires sufficient power to ensure clean and efficient drilling. I learned to check the following:
- Voltage: For cordless drills, I found that a higher voltage (18V or above) typically provides more power.
- Torque Settings: A drill with adjustable torque settings gives you better control, especially when dealing with different metal thicknesses. I always looked for models with at least 15-20 torque settings.
Drill Bits Matter
Choosing the right drill bit is as crucial as selecting the drill itself. Here’s what I recommend based on my experience:
- Cobalt Bits: These are my go-to for drilling through hard metals. They stay sharper longer and can withstand high temperatures.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) Bits: These work well for softer metals and are more affordable. I found them to be a great choice for DIY projects.
- Titanium-Coated Bits: I discovered that these bits provide added durability and reduced friction, making them ideal for metal drilling.
Features to Look For
When I was shopping for my drill, I kept an eye out for specific features that would enhance my drilling experience:
- Variable Speed Control: This feature allowed me to adjust the speed based on the material, providing better precision.
- Keyless Chuck: I appreciated the convenience of easily changing bits without needing a wrench.
- Built-in Light: This was a game-changer for me when working in dimly lit areas. A built-in LED light illuminated my work surface effectively.
Budget Considerations
I quickly realized that my budget would play a significant role in my decision-making process. Here’s how I approached it:
- Set a Budget: I established a range based on my needs and the frequency of use. I found that investing a bit more in a quality drill paid off in the long run.
- Compare Brands: I researched various brands and read reviews. Some brands are known for their durability and customer service, which was essential for my peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
finding the right drill for drilling metal took some time, but I learned a lot along the way. By understanding the different types of drills, considering power and torque, selecting the right drill bits, and keeping an eye on essential features, I was able to make a confident purchase. I hope my guide helps you in your search for the perfect drill for your metalworking projects! Happy drilling!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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