The Best Cobalt Drill Bit Set (Review) in 2023 | Autance

Whether you are a professional handyman or just take on your own DIY jobs around the house, it’s important to…

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The Best Cobalt Drill Bit Set (Review) in 2023 | Autance © The Best Cobalt Drill Bit Set (Review) in 2023 | Autance
Best Choice Irwin Index Drill Bit Set Irwin Index Drill Bit Set
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Premium Pick Chicago Latrobe 550 Series Cobalt Drill Bits Chicago Latrobe 550 Series
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Best Value Migiwata Metric M35 Drill Bits Migiwata Metric M35 Drill Bits
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Whether you are a professional handyman or just take on your own DIY jobs around the house, it’s important to have the right tools. When it comes to power tools they can set you back a fair dollars, but if there’s one important rule when it comes to tools it’s this: invest in good materials.

It’s not a good idea to buy cheap tools. It’s much wiser to invest in good quality components, and when buying drill bits there is no exception to this rule. Why waste your time with cheap metal drill bits when you can use cobalt treated drill parts that are on a whole new level when it comes to drilling?

Not only will cobalt steel drill bits last longer, but they also have many other benefits.

The Best Cobalt Drill Bit Set

The Irwin Drill Bit Set offers 29 pieces ranging from size 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch. Made from cobalt, these metal drill bits have been created with heavy-duty materials for ultimate strength and durability. You can use these drill bits to drill through tough metal. In fact, you can even use them to drill through hardened steel.

Another nice feature of these drill bits is the design. They have been specifically designed with a 135-degree split point tip, so a drill bit “walking” across the surface is a thing of the past.

This 29-piece drill bit kit is presented in a metal index case, which gives you easy access when you need to access the pieces quickly. The case also features an outer rubber molding, which prevents damage if you drop the kit.

Key Features
  • 29 Bit Set
  • Made With 5% Cobalt For Higher Heat & Abrasion Resistance
  • Heavy Duty
Specification
  • Brand Irvin
  • Model 3018002
  • Weight 4.5 lbs

DEWALT is a renowned brand when it comes to strength and durability, and these drill bits offer no exception.

We’ve only included the very best drill bit sets in our list and mentioned brands that are well known for their superior quality. This 14-piece kit features cobalt dewalt drill bits that have been designed specifically for maximum speed. This means that not only are these drill bits going to do the job well, they’re also going to be a good investment for your tool box.

The drill bits have been designed with a pilot point and split tip, giving the user more control and preventing the dreaded drill “walk” that can often occur with lesser quality parts. Using these drill pieces on tough metal shouldn’t be a problem either as these parts have been specially designed for strong metals and maximum speeds.

Key Features
  • 14 Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes: (2) 1/16" bit, (1) 5/64" bit, (1) 3/32" bit, (1) 7/64" bit, (2) 1/8" bit, (1) 9/64" bit, (1) 5/32" bit, (1) 3/16" bit, (1) 7/32" bit, (1) 1/4" bit, (1) 5/16" bit, (1) 3/8" bit
  • Built For Use On Hard Metals
Specification
  • Brand DEWALT
  • Model DWA1240
  • Weight 12.8 Ounces

When compared to the average HSS drill bit, the Migiwata cobalt steel bits will provide you with significantly more strength and a much longer life span.

These drill bits have been made from M35 cobalt steel with extra molybdenum to create an extra-strong alloy that is not only heat resistant but cuts faster too. You won’t have to worry about the metal drill bits “walking” either as the 235-degree cut points penetrate fast with a lot less pressure applied. These drill pieces have a straight shank too, which will enable you to get a firm grip and center the drill bit more accurately.

This drill kit includes 13 pieces of varying sizes from 1.5mm to 6.5mm and is perfect for use with heavy-duty metals, such as cast iron and stainless steel. One of the highlights of this product is if the user isn’t 100-percent happy with the purchase then the company offers a replacement or full refund. Now that’s what we call excellent customer service.

Key Features
  • 13 Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes: From 1.5mm – 6.5mm
  • Reusable Plastic Case
  • 100% Refund If Not Happy With Product
Specification
  • Brand Migiwata
  • Model DC023
  • Weight 4.3 Ounces

If you’re looking for a product that is built to last a long time and is suitable for drilling large holes into sheet metals, wood, plastic, aluminium, stainless steel and copper then you probably don’t need to look any further!

This 8 piece deming and silver drill bit set has been constructed from high-quality cobalt high speed steel, which means not only is it super strong, but it’s also fast and self-centering due to the 135 degree split point tip too.

What sets this product apart from the others is that the drill bits have been coated in a black nitride and gold titanium finish. The reason for this? This coating will hold lubricant better for a smoother drilling experience and is said to be 80% more durable and corrosion resistant than a regular finish with black enamel. Lastly, the final feature that we liked about this product was the sturdy aluminum case for ease of storage and carrying.

Key Features
  • 8 Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes: 9/16”, 5/8”, 11/16”, 3/4”, 13/16”, 7/8”, 15/16”, 1”       
  • Sturdy Aluminium Case
Specification
  • Brand EFFICERE
  • Model DL-001
  • Weight 3.9lbs

This portable cobalt drill bit set actually contains 29 drill bits in a wide range of sizes, which is surprising as the container is so small and lightweight. No clunky case here, this little case provides an ingenious clip so you can hang the drill index on your work belt for ease of use. The case is one of the best we’ve seen as it’s easy to pack and can be stored anywhere.

Enough about the case though…it’s the drill bits that count, right? These 29 pieces have been manufactured from cobalt steel with a gold oxide finish which lubricates the drill bit and provides essential wear resistance. With a drill set like this you are guaranteed a more extended life than other drill bits which don’t contain cobalt. Another nice feature of these drill bits is their 235 degree self-centering split point. This means that the drill bits can penetrate hard material without a pilot hole and it also produces smaller chips.

Key Features
  • 29 Piece Drill Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes: 1/16 in., 5/64 in., 3/32 in., 7/64 in., 1/8 in., 9/64 in., 5/32 in., 11/64 in., 3/16 in., 13/64 in., 7/32 in., 15/64 in., 1/4 in., 17/64 in., 9/32 in., 19/64 in., 5/16 in., 21/64 in., 11/32 in., 23/64 in., 3/8 in., 25/64 in., 13/32 in., 27/64 in., 7/16 in., 29/64 in., 15/32 in., 31/64 in. and 1/2 in.           
  • Unique Portable Case With Belt Clip
Specification
  • Brand Drill America
  • Model DWD29J-CO-PC
  • Weight 2.2lbs

 Presented in a handy plastic carrying case, this Craftsman Professional Drill Bit Set has been specially designed to withstand use on most metals, including hard metals. You can expect good quality here too as the drill bits have been made from the best quality titanium, black oxide and cobalt materials and are made to last.

The drill bit ranges from 1/16 inch to ⅜ inch, which gives you a nice variety of drill bits for all your drilling needs. They have all been designed with a split point head too, which means that they drill on contact and eliminate “walking”. We found this set to be good value for money as it provides 21 pieces in a reusable and portable case.    

Key Features
  • 21 Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes: From 1/16 Inch to ⅜ Inch
  • Handy Plastic Case
Specification
  • Brand Craftsman
  • Model 9-64085
  • Weight 1.27 lbs

If you’re looking for a drill bit set from a reliable brand then this Bosch CO21 kit is a good choice. Manufactured from tough cobalt, these drill bits are ideal for use with abrasive materials such as stainless steel, cast iron and high-density metals. They can also handle every day drilling such as wood, plastic and light-gauge metals too.

The drill bit set has been designed with split-point tips to minimise “walking” and the bits can handle high drilling temperatures in stainless steel. If you’re looking for the best drill bits for metal then Bosch won’t let you down. In fact, the company are that confident about their product, that they have claimed that their cobalt metal drill bits will last x 4 times longer compared with standard drill bits.

Key Features
  • 21 Drill Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes: (2) 1/16", (2) 5/64", (1) 3/32", (1) 7/64", (2) 1/8", (1) 9/64", (1) 5/32", (1) 11/64", (2) 3/16", (1) 13/64", (1) 7/32", (1) 15/64", (2) 1/4", (1) 5/16", (1) 3/8", (1) 1/2"
  • Accurate & Strong
Specification
  • Brand Bosch
  • Model CO21
  • Weight 1.1 lbs

Could these be the toughest cobalt metal drill bits on the market we wonder? Drill Hog claims that the melting point of the special cobalt M42 steel which they have been manufactured from is 2,853 degrees Fahrenheit. Which is pretty impressive stuff!

These drill bits mean business and they can drill through the toughest metals such as stainless steel, grade 8 bolts and spring steel. The pieces have been heat treated for extra hardness and have a 135 degree split point tip to prevent “walking” and a tri-flat shank which additionally prevents “spinning” in the chuck.

Another thing we liked was that the Drill Hog Drill Bit Set comes with a lifetime warranty which means that they will replace any broken parts, should any breakages occur.

Key Features
  • 29 Drill Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes From: 1/16" to 1/2" in 1/64th Increments
  • High Heat Treated
Specification
  • Brand Drill Hog
  • Model 29M42
  • Weight 3.25 lbs

Compared to average high-speed drill bits, a cobalt steel set like this will last significantly longer. It’s worth the investment. This kit contains 29 parts ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, and the parts have been manufactured with a gold oxide finish that is well known to lubricate the surface to prevent wear resistance with certain ferrous metals.

These drill bits are strong and self-centering with a 135-degree split point. This means that there’s no need for a pilot hole, and the chips it produces are smaller and therefore reduce clogging.

Another unique feature is that the webbing is extra thick for increased strength and rigidity.

Key Features
  • 29 Drill Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes From: 1/16" to 1/2" in 1/64th Increments
  • 135 Degrees Split Point Angle
  • Sturdy Metal Case
Specification
  • Brand Chicago Latrobe
  • Model 57850
  • Weight 3.39lbs

To conclude our best drill bit compilation we thought we’d include this combined screw extractor and left hand drill bit kit. Not only is this made from cobalt fortified high-speed steel but it’s also perfect for left-handed people that need adapted tools.

This is a super durable product which guarantees a long lifespan. Ideal for professional or DIY jobs around the house, this kit can extract broken screws, studs, bolts and other fittings as well as provide tough drill bits for most metals and materials.

Key Features
  • 10 Piece Screw Extractor & Left Hand Drill Bit Set
  • Drill Bit Sizes From: 5/64", 7/64", 5/32", 1/4", 19/64"
  • Matching Alloy Extractors: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5
  • Durable
Specification
  • Brand Neiko
  • Model 01925A
  • Weight 12.8 Ounces

Best Cobalt Drill Bit Set Buying Guide & FAQ

Things to Consider When Buying a Cobalt Drill Bit Set

If you’ve made the decision to buy cobalt drill bits then first of all let’s congratulate you on your smart investment choice. Cobalt drill bits are a wise choice for those looking to add high quality drill bits to their tool kit.

There are many things you might want to consider before buying a cobalt drill bit set:

  • Main Usage

This might seem like an obvious thing to consider, but do you really need extra strength cobalt drill bits? Cobalt drill bits are generally used to drill ferrous and non-ferrous metals and stainless steel. They can often be used for other materials too but are generally more hard-wearing and suitable for metals. What type of materials will you be mostly drilling? Do you use a high-speed drill? Know your drill before you invest in new cobalt drill pieces and don’t forget to check the product specifications extensively before you buy.

  • Size

Most cobalt drill bit sets include a variety of drill bits in different sizes. Will you be needing all the different sizes? Does the kit have the size that you’re likely to be using most?

  • Shape

It’s no surprise to hear that drill bits come in all shapes and sizes. But did you know that this can greatly affect the actual usage of the drill? The tip angle will vary across the drill bit market but generally speaking they are available in 90 degree, 120 degree, 135 degree, 140 degree and 145 degree angles. If you’re drilling a hard metal then you’ll need a large tip angle. The right type of tip angle will also ensure that “walking” or “wandering” doesn’t occur – when the drill bit slips across the metal.

  • Budget

The price of cobalt drill bits will vary depending on brand, how many pieces are included and the quality of the material. Never settle for the cheapest on the market. As with most tools, you get what you pay for.

Different Types of Cobalt Drill Bits

There are many different types of cobalt drill bits on the market and the most important factor when it comes to investing in a good set is to do your research first…so you’re in the right place here!

Obviously some cobalt drill bits are much better quality than others, so look out for trusted brands and good quality reviews. Have a look at the tip angle, which is something we spoke about above. A 135 degree tip angle is normally suitable for all ferrous and non-ferrous metals and can prevent “walking” whilst drilling. Generally, a jobber length twisted drill bit is the most common length and is good for most materials.

Also look at the percentage of cobalt and what other materials have been used in your drill bits to determine whether or not they are strong enough for your drilling needs.

Cobalt drill bits are actually made from cobalt steel which is blended with a large percentage of cobalt. This gives the drill bits incredible strength and makes them heat resistant too.

Related Posts: Best Drill Press Vises, Drill Presses and Hammer Drills

Cobalt vs Titanium Drill Bits

With cobalt and titanium drill bits you will always pay more than with just regular HSS drill bits, but if you’re looking for superior quality and a tougher drill bit in general, then it’s worth the investment.

If you’re undecided whether titanium drill bits or cobalt drill bits are right for you then you must first look at how you’re going to be using your drill and what materials you will be drilling. With cobalt and titanium drill bits you would only ever really need these if you plan to drill metal such as stainless steel.

The main difference between cobalt and titanium drill bits is that whilst cobalt drill bits are made using a high percentage of cobalt which makes them incredibly durable and heat resistant, titanium drill bits are made using a metal formulation of titanium nitride which is applied as a coating.

Whilst titanium coated drill bits are typically harder than cobalt drill bits, titanium drill bits cannot be sharpened as you will lose the coating.

Cobalt drill bits are far more superior to resisting heat and are often used in a professional capacity. This material is designed to drill hard metals such as stainless steel, titanium and cast iron.

You can’t beat titanium drill bits for it’s anti-corrosive abilities though. If you’re looking for strong drill bits that will last a long time then these might be a better option.

Related Post: Best Bench Vises

Best Cobalt Drill Bit Set FAQ:

Q: What are cobalt drill bits?

If you own a drill then you will be familiar with drill bits as these are the pieces that work with your drill to do the hard work for you. The difference between an average HSS drill bit and a cobalt drill bit is that the cobalt drill bit has been made using cobalt steel blended with a high percentage of cobalt. Cobalt drill bits are well known for being very strong and resistant to heat and are perfect for drilling most metals including: titanium and stainless steel.

Q: What type of drill bit should I use for hardened steel?

This is a question of personal preference and there is no one correct answer. Generally speaking you will need a special drill bit to drill through hardened steel but the jury is still out whether titanium or cobalt is the better option. Titanium drill bits have been manufactured using a metal formulation of titanium nitride applied to regular HSS drill bits. This makes them incredibly hard and titanium is renowned for being anti-corrosive. Another feature of titanium drill bits is that the material significantly reduces the friction between the the drill bit and the part being drilled. Typically, titanium is harder than cobalt drill bits but the downside is that you wouldn’t be able to sharpen the drill bit as titanium is just a coating, whereas cobalt drill parts are made with cobalt steel mixed with a high percentage of cobalt so can be sharpened where needed.

Q: Is it really necessary to use cutting oil every time I use my drill bit?

When drilling metals often a cutting oil is needed. Cutting oil serves an important purpose in that it lubricates the drill bit to reduce the friction and heat build up which is inevitable when it comes to drilling. The benefits of using a cutting oil do not end there either. A cutting oil can also make drilling a lot easier, and not only that but it can make your drill bits last longer too and greatly increase their lifespan. The question of whether you need to use a cutting oil every single time you use your drill bit is depending on several factors. Firstly, what are you drilling? If you’re drilling wood or plastic then you’re not going to need a cutting oil. This is mainly for drilling metals. Also, do you want to maximise the life of your drill bits? If the answer is yes then it’s best to use a cutting oil as this acts as a coolant and lubricant as well as preventing corrosion.

Our Top Pick

Buying the perfect cobalt drill bit often comes down to personal preference. Everyone has their own need when it comes to drilling. What we found from our list, was that the  Irwin Index Drill Bit Set was our favourite and a good all-rounder. Not only did it offer 29 drill bits in varying sizes, but these heavy duty drill parts could handle even the toughest metals. You could even use them to drill through hardened steel.

Specially designed with a 135 degree split tip, these drill bits won’t go walkabout when you use them either. The metal index case that it comes presented in was reinforced with a rubber coating for extra protection against knocks and bangs. We couldn’t fault this cobalt drill bit set at all.

Sources:

  1. What are cobalt drill bits? – HowStuffWorks
  2. 12 Tips for Drilling Holes in Metal – The Family Hamdyman
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