Metal drill bits

Q: What is the difference between an HSS drill bit and a cobalt drill bit?

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Q: Which drill bit should I choose for drilling stainless steel?

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Q: What is a left-hand drill bit used for?

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Q: Is a 29-piece set enough for the shop?

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Q: How can I extend the life of my metal drill bits?

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Complete guide to choosing your metal drill bits

HSS or cobalt: which drill bit for which metal?

HSS (high-speed steel) suits mild steel, aluminum and brass. It stays affordable for everyday drilling. Cobalt drill bits, like the Irwin left-hand models, handle heat better in stainless steel and hard steel.

Cobalt (an alloy with 5 to 8% cobalt depending on the grade) keeps its edge at high temperatures. The titanium coating, found on the DeWalt 5-piece kit, reduces friction and extends the life of the cutting edge.

Which format to choose: single bit, 29-piece set or left-hand bit?

A 29-piece set, like those from Gray Tools or Diablo, covers the common diameters in the shop. With single bits, you replace only the worn one. Greenfield's 10 in long bits reach deep spots.

A left-hand bit is used to remove a broken screw or stud. It drills in reverse and can loosen the stuck piece. Irwin offers it in cobalt, from 7/64 in to 3/16 in.

How to drill metal without damaging your drill bits?

Mark the drilling point with a center punch so the bit does not wander. Use cutting fluid to reduce heat, especially in stainless steel. A low speed and steady pressure protect the cutting edge.

For holes over 6 mm, drill a smaller pilot hole first. Keep the bit straight and clear the chips at regular intervals. A dull bit overheats: replace it rather than forcing it.

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We answer your questions about metal drill bits

What is the difference between an HSS drill bit and a cobalt drill bit?

HSS suits mild steel, aluminum and brass. Cobalt handles heat better and is used for stainless steel and hard steel. For mixed use, an HSS set with a titanium coating is a good starting point.

Which drill bit should I choose for drilling stainless steel?

Choose a cobalt drill bit, which resists heat better. Drill at low speed with steady pressure and cutting fluid. Browse our cutting oils to lubricate the hole.

What is a left-hand drill bit used for?

A left-hand drill bit cuts in reverse. It is used to remove broken screws and studs, because it can loosen them while drilling. Irwin offers cobalt versions from 7/64 in to 3/16 in. Run your drill in reverse.

Is a 29-piece set enough for the shop?

A 29-piece set covers the common diameters for drilling steel. If you often drill the same diameter, add individual bits. See also our drills and screwdrivers.

How can I extend the life of my metal drill bits?

Use cutting fluid, a speed suited to the diameter and steady pressure. Mark the spot with a center punch and clear the chips. Replace a dull bit instead of forcing it. For masonry, see our concrete drill bits.

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Complete guide to choosing your metal drill bits

HSS or cobalt: which drill bit for which metal?

Which format to choose: single bit, 29-piece set or left-hand bit?

How to drill metal without damaging your drill bits?

We answer your questions about metal drill bits

What is the difference between an HSS drill bit and a cobalt drill bit?

Which drill bit should I choose for drilling stainless steel?

What is a left-hand drill bit used for?

Is a 29-piece set enough for the shop?

How can I extend the life of my metal drill bits?

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