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Best Cobalt Drill Bits For Hardened Steel (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for drill bits that can handle tough jobs, consider cobalt drill bits for hardened steel. These drill bits are specifically designed for drilling through hard materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium. But before making any purchase, there are some important factors to consider.

First and foremost, it’s important to choose the right size and shape of drill bit for your specific job. Additionally, consider the drill’s point angle, which affects how easily it can penetrate the material. Another important factor is the coating on the drill bit. Cobalt drill bits typically have a bit of cobalt added to the steel, which increases the hardness and durability of the bit.

Do you find yourself constantly struggling with broken or dulled drill bits when working with harder materials? Are you tired of wasting time and money on low-quality drill bits that just can’t cut it? If so, cobalt drill bits for hardened steel may be just the solution you need. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which drill bits are worth your investment. Keep reading to learn more about how to choose the right cobalt drill bits for your needs.

10 Best Cobalt Drill Bits For Hardened Steel

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It's ideal for drilling through hard metals, hardened stainless steel, and cast iron.
2
It is ideal for drilling into materials such as hardened metal, cast iron, stainless steel, plastic, and wood.
3
This product is ideal for drilling through hard metals, stainless steel, cast iron, and wood plastic.
4
This product is ideal for drilling in hardened metal, stainless steel, cast iron, plastic, and wood with jobber length drill bits.
5
The product is ideal for drilling through hard metals, stainless steel, cast iron, wood, and plastic materials.
6
The product is ideal for drilling through metal surfaces due to its cobalt material and assorted sizes.
7
The product is ideal for drilling through hard materials such as hardened metal, stainless steel, and cast iron.
8
Ideal for drilling tough materials such as metal, stainless steel, and cast iron.
9
The product is ideal for drilling through tough materials like cobalt alloy steel with precision and accuracy using pilot point tips.
10
Ideal for drilling through tough materials such as stainless steel and hard metals with precision and durability.
It's ideal for drilling through hard metals, hardened stainless steel, and cast iron.
It is ideal for drilling into materials such as hardened metal, cast iron, stainless steel, plastic, and wood.
This product is ideal for drilling through hard metals, stainless steel, cast iron, and wood plastic.
This product is ideal for drilling in hardened metal, stainless steel, cast iron, plastic, and wood with jobber length drill bits.
The product is ideal for drilling through hard metals, stainless steel, cast iron, wood, and plastic materials.
The product is ideal for drilling through metal surfaces due to its cobalt material and assorted sizes.
The product is ideal for drilling through hard materials such as hardened metal, stainless steel, and cast iron.
Ideal for drilling tough materials such as metal, stainless steel, and cast iron.
The product is ideal for drilling through tough materials like cobalt alloy steel with precision and accuracy using pilot point tips.
Ideal for drilling through tough materials such as stainless steel and hard metals with precision and durability.

1. Ultra-Precision Metal Drill Bits By Lichamp

The Lichamp three flute patent design drill bit is a unique and innovative tool that clears chips and particles faster, providing a more efficient drilling experience. Its 3x flute design is unlike any other, making it stand out from the rest.

Made from industrial grade M35 high-speed steel with 5% cobalt, this drill bit has a 4x lifespan material that provides hardness for wear resistance and can withstand a maximum temperature of 1100 degreeF. This ensures that the drill bit is durable and can last for a long time, even when used in heavy-duty tough metal drilling applications.

The 135-degree split point tip & twist design of this drill bit increases the cutting speed and helps in self-centering, preventing skating starts or walking. This results in smoothly drilling through various types of metals, including hard abrasive alloy metal, hardened stainless steel, or cast iron.

The drill bit set comes in a metal index case with a size chart for easy bit access and identification. The set includes drill bit sizes ranging from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch in 1/64-inch increments, providing versatility and convenience for different drilling needs.

Pros

  • Unique 3x flute patent design clears chips and particles faster for a more efficient drilling experience
  • Made from industrial grade M35 high-speed steel with 5% cobalt for durability and wear resistance
  • 135-degree split point tip & twist design increases cutting speed and helps in self-centering, preventing skating starts or walking
  • Ideal for drilling in heavy-duty tough metal, including hard abrasive alloy metal, hardened stainless steel or cast iron
  • Metal index case with size chart provides easy bit access and identification

2. Precision Pro Drill Bit Set

The Perfect Drill Bits are the ideal choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. These drill bits are manufactured using a precision grinding process which ensures a clean surface and high grinding accuracy. They come with a universal round drill shank that is widely applicable to tool holding systems and tightly clamped.

With a 135° split point and twist design, these drill bits are perfect for fast and accurate drilling. The 135 degree fast cutting point is automatically centered and penetrates quickly with less pressure, reducing walking. The fully ground drill bit has a sharp and durable cutting edge. The twist design helps to clear chips faster.

The Perfect Drill Bits are made from enhanced M35 alloy material that contains 5% Cobalt alloy steel. This increases wear resistance and durability, making them a reliable choice for tough drilling tasks. They feature industry-grade 6542 high-speed steel, which is harder than 4241 HSS used in other similar drill bit sets.

This set includes 28 different sizes: 1/16, 5/64, 3/32, 7/64, 1/8, 9/64, 5/32, 11/64, 3/16, 13/64, 7/32, 15/64, 1/4, 17/64, 9/32, 19/64, 5/16, 21/64, 11/32, 23/64, 3/8, 25/64, 13/32, 27/64, 7/16, 29/64, 15/32, 31/64, and 1/2 inch bits. The set comes in a metal indexed storage case for easy storage and organization.

The manufacturers of the Perfect Drill Bits are committed to providing the highest quality product and customer satisfaction. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and 100% satisfaction guarantee for risk-free shopping.

Pros

  • Precision grinding process ensures a clean surface and high grinding accuracy
  • Universal round drill shank is widely applicable to tool holding systems and tightly clamped
  • 135° split point and twist design for fast and accurate drilling
  • Enhanced M35 alloy material with 5% Cobalt alloy steel for increased wear resistance and durability
  • Industry-grade 6542 high-speed steel is harder than that used in other similar drill bit sets
  • Set includes 28 different sizes and comes in a metal indexed storage case for easy storage and organization
  • Manufacturers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and 100% satisfaction guarantee

3. Comoware 115-Piece High-Speed Steel Drill Set

The 115-piece drill bit set is a versatile and professional tool that is suitable for a wide range of materials. The set includes 29 fractional size bits ranging from 1/16” to 1/2” in 1/64th increments, 26 letter size bits from A to Z, and 60 numbered size bits from #1 to #60. The bits are made of durable high-speed steel (HSS) with 5% cobalt, providing higher heat and abrasion resistance.

The drill bits feature a precise 135° split point and twist design, which prevents walking and clears chips and particles faster. This design allows for more precise drilling and reduces the risk of bit breakage.

The M35 cobalt HSS material is particularly suitable for hardened materials, making it ideal for cutting through hard metals like stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloy, and titanium alloy. It is also suitable for use on hard plastics and woods, as well as softer materials.

The set includes a drill bit holder with a size index for easy storage and organizing. This holder keeps the bits organized and easily accessible, allowing for efficient use of the set.

Pros

  • 115-piece set includes a wide variety of drill bit sizes for versatile use
  • Durable HSS material with 5% cobalt provides higher heat and abrasion resistance
  • Precise 135° split point and twist design prevents walking and clears chips and particles faster
  • Suitable for cutting through hard metals, hard plastics, and woods
  • Organized holder with size index for easy storage and organizing

4. Ultimate Cobalt Drill Bit Set – 115 Pieces

The High Speed Steel M35 (Cobalt 5%) used in these drill bits is a high-quality material that provides an extended tool life compared to ordinary drill bits, making them perfect for drilling hard materials. The 135° split point with round straight shank and self-centering feature prevent walking and make drilling more precise and faster. Additionally, the fully ground twist design helps to clear particles faster, decreases friction, and lowers heat for a cooler drilling performance.

These M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel drill bits are particularly successful in cutting high tensile strength and tough materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics, and woods. They can also be used for softer materials.

The set includes 115 pieces of drill bits, comprising 29 fractional size bits with 1/64” increments ranging from 1/16” to 1/2”, 26 letter sizes from A to Z, and 60 numbered wire gauges from #1 to #60.

To ensure customer satisfaction, the product comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with the product, you can contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality High-Speed Steel M35 (Cobalt 5%) material for extended tool life
  • 135° split point with round straight shank and self-centering feature make drilling precise and faster
  • Fully ground twist design helps clear particles faster and decreases friction and heat for a cooler performance
  • Suitable for drilling hard materials like stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics, and woods
  • Includes a wide range of fractional, letter, and numbered wire gauge sizes for versatile use
  • Comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Cons

  • – May not be ideal for drilling softer materials

5. 115pc Macxcoip Cobalt Drill Bit Set – Hardened Metals

The 115-piece drill bit set includes 29 fractional sizes ranging from 1/16” to 1/2” in 1/64th increments, 26 letter sizes from A to Z, and 60 numbered sizes from #1 to #60. The set also comes with drill holders with size indexes and is packaged in a strong, compact container for easy storage and organization.

Crafted with M35 cobalt, the drill bits are durable, sharp, and robust, making them suitable for cutting through stainless steel, iron castings, copper, aluminum, plastics, wood, and other soft metals. The 135-degree point tip and twist design allow for faster cutting, self-centering to prevent walk-off, and quicker chip and particle removal.

The HSS cobalt drill bit set for hardened steel has excellent cutting performance, and the inserts are hardened and polished for improved sharpness and precise cutting without wobbling. This versatile cobalt drill bit set can be effectively used on most soft and hard objects.

Overall, this cobalt drill bit set is quick, efficient, and reliable. It is a great long-term investment for anyone who needs a comprehensive set of drill bits for their drilling needs. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Pros

  • Comes with a wide range of sizes for various drilling needs
  • Crafted with durable and sharp M35 cobalt
  • Features a 135-degree point tip and twist design for faster cutting
  • Self-centering to prevent walk-off and faster chip and particle removal
  • Includes drill holders with size indexes for easy storage and sorting
  • HSS cobalt drill bits provide excellent cutting performance

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for drilling through extremely hard or dense materials

6. Bosch Co14b 14-Piece Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit Assorted Set

The Cobalt M42 drill bit set is a high-quality set of upgraded M42 Cobalt jobber-length bits designed to provide durability and high heat resistance. These bits are ideal for use with stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, light-gauge metal, and aluminum. Made from enhanced M42 alloy material, which contains 8% Cobalt alloy, these bits deliver 10x the life of standard bits. This set includes 13 different sizes of bits ranging from 1/16" to 1/2".

The high-heat resistant bits can withstand high-temperature applications for extended periods of time. The thick web-helix design provides additional stability in tough applications, and the surface-hardened tip penetrates tough abrasive materials with ease. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this set of drill bits is an excellent addition to your tool collection. With its superior quality and durability, you can be sure that these bits will last you for many years to come.

Pros

  • Upgraded M42 Cobalt jobber-length bits designed for durability and high heat resistance
  • Enhanced M42 alloy material contains 8% Cobalt alloy that delivers 10x life vs. Standard bits
  • High-heat resistant bits withstand high-temperature applications for extended periods of time
  • Thick web-helix design provides additional stability in tough applications
  • Surface-hardened tip penetrates tough abrasive materials

7. Ultimate Cobalt Drill Set – Behappy

The 29 PCS M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a comprehensive collection of drill bits that includes 1/16", 5/64", 3/32", 7/64", 1/8", 9/64", 5/32", 11/64", 3/16", 13/64", 7/32", 15/64", 1/4", 17/64", 9/32", 19/64", 5/16", 21/64", 11/32", 23/64", 3/8", 25/64", 13/32", 27/64", 7/16", 29/64", 15/32", 31/64", and 1/2" drill bits. This set is perfect for anyone who needs a complete set of drill bits for a variety of materials.

The drill bits are made of High-Speed Steel M35 (Cobalt 5%) which makes them ideal for drilling tough and high tensile materials. These metal drill bits can cut through hard metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, superalloys, titanium alloys, rigid plastics, and wood, as well as soft materials.

The twist drill bit has a 135° split point with a round straight shank, which prevents walking and self-centers for precise and faster drilling. The double back angle process and full grinding process adopt fully ground process twist design, which helps clear particles faster, decreases friction and heat for a cooler drilling performance.

The jobber drill bit set comes with a portable bucket that can be hung anywhere or on your waist for easy operation. Whether you're a professional woodworker, handyman, or builder, or you're just taking on the occasional housing project as a relaxing hobby, this barrel-packed metal drill bit set has everything you need.

If you have any concerns or doubts about the product, you can reach out to BeHappy for assistance. They are dedicated to providing specialized tool products and achieving customer satisfaction.

Pros

  • Comprehensive collection of drill bits for a variety of materials
  • Ideal for drilling tough and high tensile materials
  • Self-centering for precise and faster drilling
  • Helps clear particles faster and decreases friction and heat for a cooler drilling performance
  • Comes with a portable bucket for easy operation

8. Irwin Drill Bit Set, M35 Cobalt Alloy Steel Steel, 29-Piece (3018002)

The 29 Piece Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set is a must-have for any handyman or DIY enthusiast. This set includes 29 drill bits with sizes ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch in 1/64 inch increments, making it a versatile set for any job. The 135-degree split point design helps to minimize walking and ensures precise drilling every time.

Crafted from 5% cobalt alloy steel, these drill bits offer higher heat and abrasion resistance, making them suitable for use on tough materials such as stainless steel and cast iron. The heavy-duty web construction provides the necessary strength and durability to withstand heavy use and resist breakage.

Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the 29 Piece Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set is a valuable addition to your tool collection. With its wide range of sizes and durable construction, it ensures that you'll always have the right drill bit for the job.

Pros

  • 29 drill bits with sizes ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch in 1/64 inch increments
  • 135-degree split point design helps to minimize walking and ensures precise drilling every time
  • Crafted from 5% cobalt alloy steel, offering higher heat and abrasion resistance
  • Heavy-duty web construction provides necessary strength and durability to withstand heavy use and resist breakage

9. Dewalt Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set With Pilot Point, 14-Piece (Dwa1240)

The DEWALT drill bit set is a must-have for anyone who wants to optimize their storage space. It comes with a connectable accessory storage system that can hold drill bits for wood, metal, or i-beams. The patented bit-bar design allows for easy removal of drill bits and customizable placement, making it easier to find the right bit for the job. The clear lid allows you to easily see the contents at a glance, and the clip latch ensures secure closing. The small bulk storage size fits inside the Small and Medium ToughCase+ (sold separately), making it ideal for organizing loose bits.

This drill bit set is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their workspace organized and efficient. With its innovative design and customizable placement, it makes it easy to find the right drill bit for the job. The clear lid and clip latch ensure that your bits stay safe and secure, while the small bulk storage size allows you to keep everything organized and in one place.

In summary, the DEWALT drill bit set is a versatile and practical accessory storage system that offers easy access to your drill bits while optimizing storage space. Its innovative design, clear lid, and clip latch make it easy to use and secure, and its small bulk storage size makes it ideal for organizing loose bits. Whether you are a professional or a DIY enthusiast, this drill bit set is a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their workspace organized and efficient.

Pros

  • Connectable accessory storage system optimizes storage space
  • Patented bit-bar design allows for easy removal of drill bits and customizable placement
  • Clear lid allows for easy visibility of contents
  • Clip latch ensures secure closing
  • Small bulk storage size fits inside Small and Medium ToughCase+ (sold separately)
  • Ideal for organizing loose bits

10. Metric M42 8% Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Set For Stainless Steel And Hard Metal (1mm-10mm/19pcs)

The Premium M42 8% Cobalt Steel Drill Bit Set is a high-quality set of 19 pieces of 135 degree split point drill bits, designed to cut through stainless steel, hard metals, aluminum, and plastic with ease. With a Rockwell hardness of 68-70 HRC, it offers the best heat, wear, and chip resistance, ensuring a long tool life.

These cobalt drill bits are typically capable of running three to five times faster than regular drill bits, making them highly efficient despite the higher price. They produce long strips of iron chips, thanks to their sufficiently sharp bit edge, rather than slowly grinding through the material with a blunt drill bit.

The set includes drill bits ranging in size from 1mm to 10mm in 0.5mm increments. The smaller drill bits have a length of 3.4cm, while the larger ones have a length of up to 13cm. With this wide range of sizes, users can choose the perfect drill bit for their project, making it versatile and easy to use.

Pros

  • Made of Premium M42 8% Cobalt Steel for the best heat, wear, and chip resistance
  • 68-70 HRC Rockwell hardness for durability
  • Capable of running three to five times faster than regular drill bits
  • Produces long strips of iron chips instead of slowly grinding through the material
  • 19 piece set with a wide range of drill bit sizes for versatility

Cons

  • – Higher price point compared to regular drill bits

Best Cobalt Drill Bits For Hardened Steel FAQs

Can cobalt drill bits be used for other materials besides hardened steel?

Yes, cobalt drill bits can be used for other materials besides hardened steel. Cobalt is a very hard and durable metal that can withstand high temperatures and friction, making it a great choice for drilling into materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium. It is also effective for drilling into harder woods and plastics.

However, it is important to note that cobalt drill bits are not suitable for soft materials like aluminum and brass. This is because the high heat and friction generated while drilling can cause the cobalt to melt and fuse to the softer metal, making it difficult to remove the bit.

When using cobalt drill bits, it is important to use the proper drilling speed and pressure to prevent overheating and damaging the bit. It is also recommended to use lubrication to prolong the life of the bit and ensure a smooth drilling process.

In summary, cobalt drill bits are versatile and effective for a variety of materials, but it is important to use them correctly and avoid using them on soft metals.

How long do cobalt drill bits last when drilling through hardened steel?

The lifespan of cobalt drill bits when drilling through hardened steel can vary depending on several factors such as the hardness of the steel, the size of the drill bit, the speed of drilling, and the amount of pressure applied. However, on average, cobalt drill bits can last up to 10 times longer than regular high-speed steel drill bits when used correctly.

Cobalt drill bits are made of a high-speed steel alloy with added cobalt, making them more resistant to heat and wear than regular drill bits. They are ideal for drilling through tough materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, and hardened steel.

To prolong the lifespan of cobalt drill bits, it is important to use them at the correct speed and pressure. Using too much pressure or drilling too slowly can cause the bit to overheat and wear out faster. Additionally, sharpening the bits regularly can also help to maintain their longevity.

In summary, cobalt drill bits can last a long time when drilling through hardened steel if used correctly and maintained properly.

What is the difference between cobalt drill bits and regular drill bits when drilling through hardened steel?

Cobalt drill bits and regular drill bits are both used for drilling through hardened steel, but they differ in terms of their composition and durability. Regular drill bits are typically made of high-speed steel (HSS) and are suitable for drilling through soft materials such as wood and plastic. On the other hand, cobalt drill bits are made of a blend of cobalt and HSS, making them much stronger and more durable than regular drill bits.

When drilling through hardened steel, cobalt drill bits are the better choice as they have a higher melting point and can withstand the high temperatures generated during the drilling process. They also have a greater ability to resist wear and tear, which means they can drill through tougher materials for longer periods of time without becoming dull or damaged.

In summary, if you are drilling through hardened steel, it is recommended to use cobalt drill bits as they are more durable and can withstand the high temperatures generated during the drilling process. Regular drill bits may work for a short period of time, but they are not designed to handle the tough demands of drilling through hardened steel.

What makes cobalt drill bits suitable for drilling through hardened steel?

Cobalt drill bits are known for their exceptional hardness and durability, which makes them ideal for drilling through hardened steel. The high concentration of cobalt in these drill bits makes them resistant to high temperatures and wear and tear, which means they can maintain their sharpness for longer periods of time. Additionally, cobalt drill bits have a unique composition that allows them to resist the hardening effects of high-speed drilling, which is necessary for drilling through hardened steel.

Cobalt drill bits also have a unique ability to cut through tough materials without getting dull or overheating. This makes them ideal for use in industrial settings where high-speed drilling is required. The combination of high-speed drilling and the ability to resist high temperatures and wear make cobalt drill bits the go-to choice for drilling through hardened steel.

In summary, the exceptional hardness, durability, and resistance to high temperatures and wear of cobalt drill bits make them the perfect tool for drilling through hardened steel. Their unique composition and ability to maintain sharpness over long periods of time make them the preferred choice for industrial and professional use.

What size cobalt drill bits are best for drilling through hardened steel?

When it comes to drilling through hardened steel, cobalt drill bits are the best option due to their high heat resistance and durability. However, the size of the cobalt drill bits is also an important factor to consider.

For drilling through hardened steel, it is recommended to use cobalt drill bits with a size ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch. The smaller size bits are ideal for precise drilling, while the larger ones are great for making bigger holes.

It is also important to note that the thickness of the steel being drilled through will determine the size of the cobalt drill bit needed. Thicker steel will require a larger size bit to drill through it efficiently.

To ensure the best results, it is also important to use the appropriate drilling technique and lubrication when drilling through hardened steel with cobalt drill bits. By following these guidelines, you can achieve precise and efficient drilling through hardened steel with the right size cobalt drill bits.

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