If you have ever tried to drill through steel with cheap bits, you know the frustration. The bit walks across the surface, heats up in seconds, and goes dull before you finish a single hole. I burned through three sets of generic bits before I started taking metal drill bits seriously. Finding the best drill bit sets for metal changes everything about how your projects turn out.
Our team spent weeks testing 10 different drill bit sets on everything from thin sheet metal to thick stainless steel plate. We used a drill press for precision metal drilling alongside cordless drills to see how each set performed under real conditions. The difference between a proper cobalt bit and a bargain-bin special is night and day.
In this guide, I break down which sets actually hold up when drilling metal, which coatings matter, and what to look for based on the type of metal you work with most. Whether you are a weekend mechanic or a full-time metalworker, one of these 10 sets will match your needs and budget.
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Bosch CO14B M42 Cobalt 14-Piece
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DEWALT DW1361 Titanium 21-Piece
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DEWALT DWA1184 HSS 14-Piece
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Drill America M35 Cobalt 29-Piece
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Milwaukee Shockwave Titanium 23-Piece
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DEWALT DWA1181 HSS 21-Piece
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Bosch TI21A Titanium 21-Piece
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Makita Impact Gold Titanium 14-Piece
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MACXCOIP M35 Cobalt 29-Piece
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MACXCOIP M35 Cobalt 13-Piece
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M42 Cobalt 14-Piece
8% Cobalt Alloy
135-Degree Split Point
3-Flat Shank
I reached for the Bosch CO14B set first when I had to drill through 1/4-inch stainless steel plate for a custom bracket project. These M42 cobalt bits cut through that material like it was aluminum. The 8% cobalt alloy makes a real difference when you are pushing through tough metals that would destroy a standard HSS bit in seconds.
The three-flat shank design kept every bit locked tight in my drill chuck. No spinning, no slipping, even when I was bearing down on thick cast iron. With over 7,000 reviews and a solid 4.6 rating, other users report the same experience. These bits stay sharp through hundreds of holes.
One thing I noticed right away is the thick web-helix design. It adds stability when you are drilling into abrasive materials, and the surface-hardened tip penetrates tough surfaces without dancing around. The 135-degree split point means you can start holes without a pilot, which saves time on bigger projects.
Heat is the enemy of any drill bit, and the M42 cobalt blend handles high temperatures far better than standard steel. I ran these bits for extended sessions on stainless steel and they held up without discoloration or edge loss. Just remember to use cutting fluid on steel for the best results and longest bit life.
This is the set for anyone who regularly drills stainless steel, cast iron, or titanium. Professional metalworkers, HVAC installers, and automotive mechanics will get the most value here. The M42 cobalt construction justifies the investment if you work with hard metals on a regular basis. It is also a strong choice if you want a set that will last for years under heavy use.
If you mostly drill wood, plastic, or soft metals like aluminum, this set is overkill. The cobalt construction adds cost that you will not benefit from on softer materials. Also, if you only drill metal occasionally, a good titanium-coated HSS set will serve you well at a lower price point.
Titanium Nitride 21-Piece
Pilot Point Tip
1/16 to 1/2 Inch Sizes
Tough Case
The DEWALT DW1361 is the drill bit set I reach for most often. With nearly 29,000 reviews and a 4.8 rating, it is one of the most popular metal drill bit sets available, and for good reason. The titanium nitride coating keeps these bits sharp longer than bare HSS, and the pilot point design is a genuine advantage when starting holes in metal.
I used this set to drill over 40 holes through 16-gauge sheet steel for a shelving project. Every hole came out clean, and the bits showed minimal wear afterward. The pilot point feature means the tip grabs the metal surface immediately, so there is no walking or dancing when you start a hole. That alone saves a ton of frustration.
The 21-piece set covers sizes from 1/16-inch all the way up to 1/2-inch, with no major gaps in the range. The tapered web design adds durability by reducing the chance of snapping under pressure. The tough case keeps everything organized, though I will say the bits fit so tightly that getting smaller sizes out takes some effort.
For mild steel, aluminum, and general-purpose metal drilling, this set handles everything I throw at it. The no-spin shanks keep bits seated firmly in the chuck. This is a dependable, well-rounded set that works for both DIYers and professionals who need reliable performance across a range of materials.
This is the best drill bit set for metal if you want one set that does everything well. Homeowners, DIYers, and contractors who drill through mild steel, aluminum, and sheet metal regularly will love this set. The 21-piece size range covers almost any hole you need to make, and the titanium coating extends bit life enough for most non-industrial applications.
If you frequently drill hardened steel or thick stainless steel, you need cobalt bits instead. The titanium coating wears faster under that kind of abuse. Also, professionals who drill metal all day every day might prefer a cobalt set for the longer edge retention under continuous heavy use.
HSS 14-Piece
135-Degree Split Point
3-Flat Shank
Black and Gold Coating
The DEWALT DWA1184 punches well above its weight. This 14-piece HSS set costs less than most premium sets but delivers features that matter when drilling metal. The 3-flat shank design is the standout feature here. On sizes larger than 3/16-inch, three flat surfaces on the shank prevent the bit from spinning in the chuck. That seems like a small thing until you have had a bit slip mid-hole and ruin your workpiece.
I tested this set on mild steel angle iron and aluminum flat bar. The 135-degree split point starts cutting the moment it touches the surface. No walking, no pilot holes needed. The black and gold coating adds corrosion resistance, and the tapered web design prevents the bits from snapping under pressure.
With nearly 20,000 reviews and a 4.8 rating, the user consensus is clear. These bits are sharp, they last, and the locking case keeps everything organized and accessible. The size markings etched on each shank make it easy to grab the right bit without squinting at tiny numbers.
For general metal drilling around the house or job site, this set gives you professional-quality features at a fraction of what cobalt sets cost. The HSS construction handles mild steel, aluminum, and copper without complaint.
Anyone looking for the best value in metal drill bits should start here. The 3-flat shank and split point design give you premium features at a budget-friendly price. Homeowners, hobbyists, and tradespeople who work with mild steel and soft metals will get excellent results without overspending.
If your work involves stainless steel or hardened steel on a regular basis, step up to a cobalt set. HSS bits will handle occasional stainless jobs, but they dull faster than cobalt under those conditions. Also, this is only 14 pieces, so you may need additional sizes for specialized projects.
M35 Cobalt 29-Piece
1/16 to 1/2 by 64ths
Gold Oxide Finish
ANSI Certified
The Drill America DWD29J-CO-PC is the set professionals reach for when they need every size at their fingertips. With 29 pieces covering 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch in 1/64th increments, there are no gaps in this collection. I have used this set for removing broken bolts and drilling out stripped screws, and the M35 cobalt construction handles those punishing tasks without complaint.
The gold oxide finish serves double duty. It lubricates the cutting edge during use and provides wear resistance that extends bit life. The 135-degree split point is self-centering, so you can start holes in hard material without drilling a pilot first. This set meets ANSI specifications, which tells you the manufacturing standards are held to a professional level.
Reddit users specifically recommend Drill America as a trusted brand for metal drilling. Multiple threads on r/Tools mention this set as a smart alternative to paying twice the price for Chicago-Latrobe or other premium names. The performance is close enough that most users will never notice the difference.
The round case is functional but not as convenient as a metal index case. Bits are organized by size, but the numbers can be hard to read in low light. That said, the bits themselves perform beautifully on stainless steel and hardened metals. Just add cutting fluid and let the cobalt do the work.
Mechanics, metal fabricators, and serious DIYers who want complete size coverage with cobalt performance should strongly consider this set. The 29-piece range means you always have the right size, and the M35 cobalt handles tough metals that would destroy HSS bits. It is an excellent choice for anyone who wants professional-grade cobalt bits without the premium brand markup.
Occasional users who only need a few common sizes will find 29 pieces excessive. If you only drill metal once in a while, a smaller titanium-coated set will serve you better at a lower cost. The round case also makes it less convenient for quick bit changes compared to index-style cases.
Titanium 23-Piece
4-Flute Design
Red Helix Chip Removal
135-Degree Split Point
Milwaukee built the Shockwave set for professionals who drill metal all day. The standout feature is the four-flute construction. Most drill bits have two flutes, but four flutes remove chips faster and cut more aggressively. I noticed the difference immediately when drilling through thick mild steel plate. The bits cut faster and stayed cooler than two-flute alternatives.
The red helix design is not just cosmetic. It is engineered for rapid chip removal, which matters a lot when you are making deep holes in metal. Clogged flutes cause heat buildup, and heat kills bits fast. The 135-degree split point starts clean holes without walking, and the titanium coating extends cutting life.
Professional users on forums, including diesel technicians and metal fabricators, praise this set for holding up under daily abuse. One user reported drilling hundreds of holes in steel frame structures without needing to replace bits. The manufacturer warranty also adds peace of mind that Milwaukee stands behind the product.
The main complaints center on the case. It is bigger than it needs to be, and the size markings on the index are hard to read when bits are tilted up in their slots. Also, the smaller bits from 1/16-inch to 3/16-inch are shorter maintenance-length rather than full jobber-length. These are minor issues compared to the cutting performance.
Professional tradespeople who drill metal every day will get the most out of this set. The 4-flute design and red helix chip removal make it ideal for production work where speed matters. If you work in automotive, HVAC, or metal fabrication, this Milwaukee set is built for your workload. The 23-piece count gives you good size coverage for most professional applications.
If you are a casual DIYer, the 4-flute design advantage will not matter much for occasional projects. A standard 2-flute HSS or titanium set will work just fine at a lower price. Also, if you need cobalt-level performance on hardened steel, look at the Bosch CO14B or Drill America cobalt sets instead.
HSS Black Oxide 21-Piece
Parabolic Flute
31-Degree Helix
135-Degree Split Point
The DEWALT DWA1181 has a secret weapon: the parabolic flute design. Standard spiral flutes can clog with metal chips when you are drilling deep holes, causing heat buildup and stuck bits. The parabolic shape ejects chips faster and more efficiently, which keeps the cutting edge clear and running cool. If you drill deep holes in metal, this matters a lot.
I tested this set on 2-inch thick mild steel bar stock, drilling through-holes for bolts. The 31-degree helix angle reduces over-aggressiveness, which gives you more control in deep drilling situations. The bits did not grab or snatch the material, even when breaking through the back side of the hole. That is a common problem with more aggressive flute angles.
The black oxide coating provides decent corrosion resistance and slightly extends bit life compared to bare HSS. The 135-degree split point design prevents walking, so your holes end up where you intend them. This 21-piece set covers the same size range as the DW1361, from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch.
The straight shank is the main drawback. Without the 3-flat design of the DWA1184, bits can spin in the chuck under heavy load. Make sure you tighten the chuck firmly, especially on larger bit sizes. For the price and the parabolic flute advantage, this is an excellent choice for deep metal drilling tasks.
Anyone who regularly drills deep holes in metal will benefit from the parabolic flute design. Metalworkers drilling through thick plate, electricians running conduit through steel framing, and mechanics drilling bolt holes in thick stock all need efficient chip ejection. The 21-piece size range and 4.8 rating from nearly 6,000 reviews confirm this set delivers consistent results.
If your metal drilling is mostly shallow holes in thin stock, the parabolic flute advantage will not matter much. A standard spiral flute set at a lower price will handle those tasks fine. Also, users who want the 3-flat shank security should look at the DEWALT DWA1184 instead.
Titanium Nitride 21-Piece
NO-SKATE Tip
3-Flat Shank
120-Degree Angle
The Bosch TI21A solves one of the most annoying problems in metal drilling: bit walking. The NO-SKATE tip design is specifically engineered to prevent the bit from dancing across smooth metal surfaces when you start a hole. I tested this on polished stainless steel sheet, which is one of the worst surfaces for walking, and the bit grabbed immediately on contact.
The three-flat shank on bits 3/16-inch and larger provides a solid grip in the chuck. Combined with the 120-degree cutting angle, this set is built for precision drilling where hole placement matters. The titanium nitride coating reduces friction, which means less heat and longer bit life compared to uncoated HSS bits.
Bosch rates this set for up to 1,500 RPMs, and I found it performs well at moderate speeds in mild steel, aluminum, and brass. The split point design works in tandem with the NO-SKATE tip for clean, accurate starts. Over 1,700 users give this set a 4.6 rating, with many noting the precise starts as a key advantage.
The main downside is that the titanium nitride coating wears off relatively quickly with heavy continuous use. If you are drilling dozens of holes in hard steel, the coating will degrade and you will lose some of the friction-reducing benefit. For precision work at moderate volume, though, this set is outstanding.
Anyone who values precision hole placement in metal should consider the Bosch TI21A. The NO-SKATE tip is genuinely effective at preventing walking on smooth surfaces. Electricians, HVAC technicians, and metal fabricators who need accurate starts on polished or painted metal surfaces will appreciate this feature. The 21-piece range and wide material compatibility make it versatile enough for most shops.
Heavy-duty users who drill hard steel all day will wear through the titanium coating faster than they would like. If you need maximum bit life under continuous heavy use, a cobalt set will outlast this one. Also, users who prefer 135-degree cutting angles over the 120-degree angle on this set might look at DEWALT alternatives.
Titanium 14-Piece
1/4-Inch Hex Shank
Impact Rated
135-Degree Split Point
The Makita B-65399 Impact Gold set is designed for one specific purpose: drilling metal with an impact driver. Most drill bits have round or hex shanks that fit standard chucks, but this set uses a 1/4-inch hex shank that drops right into any impact driver. If you switch between driving screws and drilling holes constantly, that convenience is huge.
I tested this set on sheet metal and mild steel with both a drill and an impact driver. The titanium nitride coating provides 2.5x longer life than uncoated bits according to Makita, and in my testing, the coating held up well through several dozen holes in thin steel. The 135-degree split point starts clean holes without walking on flat surfaces.
With nearly 7,000 reviews and a 4.5 rating, this is a well-established set with a strong following. The case is compact and well-organized, making it easy to toss in a tool bag. Makita built these bits to handle the percussive force of impact drivers, which standard drill bits cannot withstand over time.
The limitations are real though. These bits are not meant for thick steel or hardened metal. The smaller sizes in the set are two-piece construction rather than solid, and they will break if you apply too much pressure. Think of this set as perfect for light to medium metal work where impact driver convenience matters most.
This set is ideal for anyone who uses an impact driver as their primary tool and wants to drill metal without switching to a drill. Electricians, HVAC installers, and construction workers who constantly toggle between driving fasteners and drilling pilot holes will save significant time. The impact rating means these bits can handle the percussive force that would destroy standard drill bits.
If you need to drill thick steel or hardened metals, this set is not up to the task. The titanium coating and impact-rated construction are designed for lighter gauge metal, not heavy stock. Professional metalworkers should look at cobalt sets for serious metal drilling. Also, if you primarily use a drill rather than an impact driver, a standard shank set gives you more options.
M35 Cobalt 29-Piece
1/16 to 1/2 Inch
135-Degree Point
Metal Index Case
The MACXCOIP 29-piece cobalt set gives you the most bang for your buck in the cobalt category. With 29 bits covering 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch, you get complete size coverage at a fraction of what name-brand cobalt sets cost. I was skeptical of the quality at first, but after drilling through mild steel and cast iron, these bits earned my respect.
The M35 cobalt HSS construction provides genuine cobalt cutting performance. These are not just cobalt-coated bits. The cobalt is blended into the steel, which means the hardness goes all the way through. The 135-degree spear point design is self-centering, so you get clean starts without the bit wandering across the workpiece.
The metal index case is a nice upgrade over plastic cases. It keeps the bits organized and protected, with clear size markings for quick identification. Users report good performance on stainless steel, cast iron, copper, and aluminum. The set ranks in the top 10 in the Jobber Drill Bits category on Amazon, which confirms strong user satisfaction.
The main concern is with the smaller bits in the set. Sizes below 1/8-inch can break if you apply too much pressure or run the drill too fast. This is true of any bit set, but it is especially important to be careful with these. Use low speed and steady pressure on the smallest sizes, and always use cutting fluid when drilling harder metals.
Users who want cobalt performance with complete size coverage at a reasonable price should look here. The 29-piece range ensures you always have the right size, and the metal index case keeps everything organized. This is a great choice for serious DIYers and semi-professional users who work with hard metals but do not want to pay premium brand prices.
If you need absolute top-tier quality control, consider the Drill America or Bosch cobalt sets instead. Some users report minor wobble with the smallest bits, which can be an issue for precision work. Also, full-time professionals who drill metal all day may prefer the proven track record of name-brand cobalt sets for maximum reliability.
M35 Cobalt 13-Piece
1/16 to 1/4 Inch
135-Degree Spear Point
Compact Index Case
The MACXCOIP 13-piece set is the cheapest way to get into genuine cobalt drill bits. At this price point, you are getting M35 cobalt HSS construction that will outperform any standard HSS or black oxide set when drilling metal. I keep this set in my truck toolbox for emergency metal drilling tasks, and it has saved me more than once.
These bits have proven especially useful for drilling out broken screws and stripped fasteners. The cobalt construction cuts through hardened bolt shanks without dulling, which is exactly the kind of task that destroys cheaper bits. The 135-degree spear point starts holes accurately and the compact index case fits in any tool bag.
The 13-piece set covers sizes from 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch, which handles the most commonly needed sizes for metal drilling. Users rate this set 4.4 out of 5 stars with over 2,400 reviews, and 70 percent of those are 5-star ratings. That is strong validation for a budget-priced cobalt set.
The limitations are straightforward. These bits struggle with thick stainless steel plates and the smaller sizes can overheat if you push too hard. But for the price, the performance on mild steel, sheet metal, and broken bolt removal is impressive. Think of this as your backup set or your gateway into cobalt bits without a big investment.
This is the perfect starter set for anyone who wants to try cobalt bits without spending much money. It is also an excellent secondary set to keep in a vehicle toolbox or at a secondary work location. Mechanics who need to drill out broken fasteners will find the cobalt construction especially valuable for that specific task.
If you drill stainless steel thicker than 16 gauge regularly, these bits will struggle and overheat. Step up to the MACXCOIP 29-piece set or the Bosch CO14B for better performance on tough metals. Also, professionals who need size coverage beyond 1/4-inch should look at larger sets since this one maxes out at 1/4-inch.
Picking the right drill bit set for metal comes down to three things: the type of metal you drill most often, how often you drill, and what tool you use. I have broken down the key factors below so you can make the right call without overthinking it.
This is the most important decision, and it is simpler than most guides make it. High-Speed Steel (HSS) bits are your baseline. They work fine on mild steel, aluminum, and copper. Black oxide or gold oxide coatings add rust resistance and slightly extend life. Look at the DEWALT DWA1184 or DWA1181 for excellent HSS options.
Titanium Nitride (TiN) coated bits are HSS bits with a hard ceramic coating applied to the surface. The coating reduces friction and extends cutting life by 2 to 3 times compared to bare HSS. The DEWALT DW1361, Bosch TI21A, and Makita B-65399 all use this coating. TiN-coated bits are excellent for mild steel, aluminum, and sheet metal, but the coating eventually wears off with heavy use.
Cobalt bits have cobalt blended into the steel alloy itself, not just a surface coating. This means the hardness goes all the way through the bit. M35 cobalt contains 5% cobalt, and M42 contains 8% cobalt. Higher cobalt content means better heat resistance and longer life on hard metals. The Bosch CO14B uses M42 cobalt and delivers up to 10x longer life than standard bits on stainless steel. If you drill hardened steel, stainless steel, or cast iron, cobalt is the way to go.
Yes, it matters, but probably not as much as you think. M35 cobalt has 5% cobalt content and handles most metal drilling tasks well. M42 has 8% cobalt and provides better heat resistance for extended drilling in the hardest metals. For most users, M35 cobalt is more than sufficient. The Drill America DWD29J-CO-PC and MACXCOIP sets use M35, and they handle stainless steel and cast iron effectively.
Choose M42 cobalt if you regularly drill thick stainless steel, titanium, or hardened tool steel. The Bosch CO14B with M42 cobalt is the best option here. The extra cobalt content keeps the bit hard at higher temperatures, which means less edge wear during extended use.
A split point tip is one of the most important features for metal drilling. Standard drill bits have a chisel edge at the center that can cause the bit to walk across smooth metal surfaces before it bites. A split point splits that chisel edge into two cutting edges that start cutting immediately on contact.
The 135-degree split point is the most common angle for metal drilling bits. It provides a good balance between self-centering ability and cutting aggression. Every set in this review uses some form of split point or pilot point design. The Bosch TI21A takes this a step further with its NO-SKATE tip, which is specifically designed to prevent walking on polished surfaces.
The shank is the part of the bit that goes into your drill chuck, and it matters more than most people realize. Straight shanks are the most common and work in any drill. The downside is they can spin in the chuck under heavy load.
3-flat shanks have three flat surfaces that prevent the bit from spinning in the chuck. The DEWALT DWA1184 and Bosch CO14B use this design. It is a real advantage when you are drilling tough metals and need the bit to stay put.
Hex shanks fit directly into impact drivers without a chuck. The Makita B-65399 uses a 1/4-inch hex shank. This is the most convenient option if you switch between driving screws and drilling holes, but it only works with tools that accept hex bits.
Even the best drill bit set for metal will fail if your technique is wrong. Reddit users in r/Tools consistently say the same thing: treat your bits right and they will treat you right. Here are the key principles.
Use the right speed. Metal drilling requires slower speeds than wood drilling. For steel, keep your drill between 500 and 1,000 RPM for bits up to 1/4-inch. Larger bits need even slower speeds. Running too fast generates excess heat that dulls the cutting edge quickly.
Apply steady, firm pressure. Let the bit do the cutting. Pushing too hard on small bits causes breakage, but too little pressure causes the bit to rub instead of cut, which generates heat without removing material. Find the sweet spot where you feel the bit cutting steadily.
Use cutting fluid. This is the single biggest thing you can do to extend bit life. A few drops of cutting oil or even WD-40 on the drilling surface reduces friction and heat dramatically. Multiple forum users report that cobalt bits last years when used with cutting fluid versus weeks without it. This is especially important when drilling stainless steel or thick steel plate.
For more detailed workshop setup tips, check out our guide on pocket hole jigs for precise drilling and power tool organizers for workshop storage solutions.
The Bosch CO14B M42 Cobalt 14-Piece set is the best overall choice for metal drilling. Its 8% cobalt alloy delivers up to 10x longer life than standard bits, and the three-flat shank prevents slippage during heavy use. For budget-conscious buyers, the DEWALT DWA1184 provides excellent HSS performance with a 3-flat shank and 135-degree split point at a much lower price point.
Cobalt drill bits, specifically M42 cobalt with 8% cobalt content, are the strongest bits for drilling through metal. The cobalt alloy maintains hardness at high temperatures, which is critical when drilling hardened steel or stainless steel. The Bosch CO14B uses M42 cobalt and is rated for drilling through stainless steel, cast iron, and even titanium. For the toughest metals like hardened tool steel, cobalt bits are your only reliable option.
Cobalt is better for drilling hard metals like stainless steel and hardened steel because the cobalt is blended into the steel alloy, providing through-hardness and superior heat resistance. Titanium nitride (TiN) is a surface coating on HSS bits that reduces friction and extends life by 2-3x, but the coating wears off over time. Choose cobalt for hard metals and frequent use. Choose titanium-coated bits for mild steel, aluminum, and occasional metal drilling at a lower price point.
For mild steel and aluminum, high-speed steel (HSS) bits with titanium nitride coating or black oxide coating work well. For stainless steel, cast iron, and hardened steel, use cobalt bits (M35 or M42). Always choose bits with a 135-degree split point tip to prevent walking on metal surfaces. Use cutting fluid to reduce heat and extend bit life regardless of which type you choose.
Finding the best drill bit sets for metal does not have to be complicated. If you work with stainless steel or hardened metals regularly, the Bosch CO14B M42 Cobalt set is the clear winner with its 8% cobalt alloy and professional-grade heat resistance. For most general-purpose metal drilling, the DEWALT DW1361 Titanium Nitride set delivers the best balance of performance, size range, and value with nearly 29,000 positive reviews.
Budget-conscious buyers will get excellent results from the DEWALT DWA1184 with its 3-flat shank design, while professionals who need complete size coverage should look at the Drill America DWD29J-CO-PC M35 Cobalt 29-piece set. Whatever type of metal you drill, using the right bit with proper speed, pressure, and cutting fluid will make your bits last longer and your holes come out cleaner. Pick the set that matches your most common metal type, and you cannot go wrong.