10 Best Drill Bit for Hardened Steel Bolt – A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Making holes to a hard material like steel with a drill bit is quite a tough job and not everybody’s cup of tea. Yet a good drill bit does almost all of it and does just perfect. Not all the drill bit you are offered with your drilling machine will work the same on a hard metal body. Hence, to ease your trouble, we have got you the review of the best drill bit for hardened steel bolt.

Each type of material requires a different featured drill bit so that the material doesn’t end up being damaged. So, you need to get just the right one. But there are hundreds of brands in the market claiming their products the best.

Thus, to save yourself from the perplexity, give an explicit look to our top selected models, and treat yourself with the best one. Here is a list of the best models so that you can make your decision faster.

10 Best Drill Bit for Hardened Steel Bolt Reviews

The drill bits that are meant to drill hardened steel have certain features and different characteristics. As the material is way tougher to drill, it is an obvious thing that you have to get a stronger tool to start with. So, let’s get to know our 10 drill bit models along with the buyer’s guide.

1. COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set (13Pcs) – Best Metal Drill Bits

Till now the COMOWARE Cobalt drill bit set from COMOWARE is our top pick among all other drill bits. This one surely stands out of all other drill sets because of its extraordinary features and designs. The set comes with total of 13 pieces and all of them are titanium coated.

Each piece of the set can drill any type of hole. The drill bits are possessed with a hard cutting edge. They are honed to achieve certain sharpness. The staggered design of the bit’s cutting teeth makes a smooth and clean hole.

With hex shank design the drill bits fit any power machine and offers high-speed efficiency confirming maximum security. This model is not only suitable for hardcore metal surface but also it is applicable to plastic, wood, and aluminum alloy.

The drill bits come with a block holder that has an index of each size of the bits. The holder is organized and easily restorable. Your DIY or general engineering projects are easier with this COMOWARE titanium twist drill bit set.

Things We Liked:

• Comes with two flutes from for cleaning debris.
• Comes with the most common bits that fit any power tool.
• Arrives with a holder and carry case for the drill bits.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Not applicable for the major construction projects.

2. DEWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece (DW1361) – Best Drill Bit for Hardened Steel

After the drill bit from COMOWARE, our second-best pick is this one from the DEWALTbrand. This one is also titanium coated and highly durable. Its HSS engineering with the coating of titanium confirms its extended capacity and lifespan.

All the pieces will serve you different purposes and all of them will work just fine on the hard steel without creating any crack. The drill bits are engineered robust and extremely hard. They are also durable and for regular drilling task, they require a fixed solution to handle.

The 21 pieces differ in diameter holes and come in any type of drill that offers you an elongated usage. The titanium pilot point indicates its smoothness and sleekness while using on a metal surface and extended durability of the tool.

The whole set is designed with shanks that are hex and round. They are slip-resistant and drill a hole easily and quickly. Again the tapered web construction confirms breakage-free strong performance. No wonder, it is the best metal drill bits.

Things We Liked:

• Comes in a great number of bits.
• The drill bits are titanium coated and mellifluous.
• Durable and resistant to slippery and breakage.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Every 2 bits come in the same size.

3. Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set – Best Drill Bit for Stainless Steel

Makita B-65399 drill bit set is on the third position in our list for its incredible feature and excellent efficiency. The model has the capacity of drilling hardened steel with masonry bit. With total of 14 pieces, all the drill bits are coated with titanium nitride.

The finish coating has the durability of twice and a half than the other non-coated drill bits. Offering great compatibility this model can be used in 1/4inch hex impact drivers with an impact rate. This tool is applicable to non-ferrous, ferrous metal, plastic, wood, cast iron, and so on.

Each drill bits are designed in split point geometry of 135 degrees. It helps in faster starting and reduces walking. The hex shank feature makes the hole accurate, smooth, and clean. All the bits are strong and go through the metal without any stumble.

Overall, this drill bit from Makita certainly is one of the best for its powerful activity. The set comes in a beautiful blue case holding all the drill bits with an organized index for your convenience.

Things We Liked

• More than double durability.
• Comes with an incredible coating finish.
• Fastens start and reduces walking.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Some of the drill bits may wobble while using.

4. EFFICERE Best Choice 8-Piece 1/2” Shank Silver and Deming Drill Bit Set – Best Drill Bit for Hardened Steel Bolt

If you are searching for a budget-friendly yet the best and durable drill bit set, then the brand Efficere has this one to offer you. The drill bits of this model are manufactured from A-grade metal cobalt and most probably this one is the best cobalt drill bit set for hardened steel bolt.

The cobalt material indicates its extended durability and capacity of creating deep holes. This set is suitable for any drilling on any material from hard steel to the soft plastic. The drill bits are coated with titanium nitride and they have a black sleek finish.

The perfect finish makes the bits everlasting and resistant to corrosion and rusts. Like the Makita one, this model also has a split point feature of 135 degrees for smooth, efficient, and better drilling efficiency. The design also resists the unexpected motion of the drill bits.

To form a better lock mechanism, the tool comes with a 1/2-inch shank that confirms the security and safety. The tool arrives with an aluminum case including 8 pieces of drill bits. All of them have different diameters and this one is affordable too.

Things We Liked:

• The drill bits are strong and made from Cobalt.
• The titanium nitride coating retains lubricant for facile drilling.
• Comes with a ½ inch shank for better mechanism.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Bits get softer when used much.

5. CRAFTSMAN Drill Bit Set, Gold Oxide, 14-Piece (CMAM2214) – Best Drill Bit for Metal

This drill bit set model of High-Speed Steel (HSS) from the CRAFTSMAN is also considered great for the drilling of the hard steel bolt or other materials. The whole set comes with total of 14 pieces and all of them are coated with gold oxide.

The gold oxide coating finish protects the bits from rustiness and dullness and encourages a longer lifespan. With a round shank type, the drill bits go through any hard objects precisely creating the holes on point.

The split point design also helps in the holes to be burr-free and clean. The bits are manufactured carefully so they hold a certain deal of sharpness at their edges even after multiple uses. The bits are unbeatable even on heavy-duty activity.

All the 14 pieces of drill bits are separated by giving them separated diameter. The tools come in a compact-sized plastic holding case. For better storage and long durability, the manufacturer thought to keep a plastic carrying crate. Overall, this Chinese product is certainly not the best yet among the best and a decent addition to your tool.

Things We Liked:

• The drill bits are crafty enough and ideal for DIY jobs.
• Flexible, balanced, and creates precise holes in steel.
• Arrives in a compact case.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Some of the drill bits are too small.

6. DEWALT Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point, 14-Piece (DWA1240)

This is another DEWALT drill bit that we couldn’t resist to put in our list of 10 best drill bits. With some of the most efficient, sharp and powerful cobalt drill bits, this set is a wholesome addition to your DIY tools. With both the pilot point and slit point feature, the drill set is wanted by everyone.

On even the hardest high carbon stain-resistant steel, the drill bits will work smoothly for their extreme slit point model. Resisting all kind of wobble of the bits while drilling, the tool works precisely. The pilot point feature helps in fastening the whole process.

Offering a perfect balance and control over the instrument, you can experience spontaneous drilling. Delivering various diameters for drilling, the whole set offers 14 pieces of different drill bits. As all the bits are made from cobalt, they have strong damage-free features.

For some extraordinary properties that cobalt possesses, the bits are also protective to dull and rust. With manifold features, the tool allows drilling on the hardest material possible with an extremely affordable price rate.

Things We Liked:

• Comes with a pilot point and a slit point landmark.
• Offers wobble-free fast-acting features.
• Drill bits are long-lasting and the production material is cobalt.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Some of the bits may take some time to drill holes.

7. amoolo Cobalt Drill Bit Set (13 pcs)

For one of the most well planned design, the amoolo cobalt drill bit set stand out of some other drill bits. The bits are designed in a way that they will easily get fit any machine. Ensuring multiple uses the toolset can be handled easily by anyone.

The model includes 13 pieces of drill bits and the bits are manufactured from M35 cobalt which is immensely enduring and dynamic. For this potential material, the drill bits are always ready to drill any hard surface resisting any erosion.

The extraordinary spiral groove feature grounding to the bits helps in easy penetration of the bits and quick removal of the particles while drilling. Moreover, the 135-degree slit point design adds extra convenience to the overall process and quickens the job.

As all the features of the tool together create a positive force, the backward force decreases a lot. Offering versatile drilling options, every drill bit can be used on both hard and soft materials.

Things We Liked:

• Rounded with a spiral groove design for more comfort.
• Comes with drill bits made of M35 cobalt material.
• Easily penetrates and works faster.

Things We Didn’t Like:

•  The drill bits may wobble a bit while drilling.

8. NEIKO 11402A Stubby Drill Bit Set for Metal, 5 Pieces

If you are searching for a professional drill bit at an affordable price, then we recommend the NEIKO 11402A Stubby Drill Bit set that has many good things to offer. The drill set comes with a stubby design which indicates its capability of working on even thin and blank sheets of metal or other materials.

The evil sharpness of bits’ edges drills the metal with almost zero effort. Even on a very delicate surface, the drill bits will do just the perfect hole. The set contains total of five pieces of bits with different length sizes.

The bits are made from M2 Molybdenum steel which is high in quality and makes the bits hard, sturdy, and prominent. The drill bits are compact and smaller in size comparing to other bits which allows them to attain all close-bodied spots.

Moreover, the 135-degree slit point encourages an easy drilling process. The bits come in a compact simple carrying case holding all the bits in the right position. Overall, choosing the drill bit set is not a bad idea at all.

Things We Liked:

• Comes in a sturdy feature with Molybdenum material.
• The drill bits work on every thinner or thicker surface.
• Smaller drill bits are meant for congested spots.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• The bits bend when get too hot.

9. Drill America 29 Piece Heavy Duty High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set

This model includes a number of 29 pieces of tools offering you all types of drilling facilities. The cobalt bits have a gold oxide coating finish that tolerates excessive hit while drilling. The bits are rigid and reliable enough to make the job done easily.

The gold oxide emollient also resistant to wear and it emits lubricant that helps the bits to be still strong even on non-stop use. The 29 pieces come in different lengths and diameters serving different holing purposes.

The drill bits are applicable and suitable on different types of surfaces. The hard steel bolt is easily penetrated with the cobalt bits. Meeting the ANSI standards, the whole set is worth giving a shot. The slit point of 135-degree helps in facile drilling.

However, the tools are tolerant to all high temperatures. So, the intention of bending the bits is reduced a lot. The tools come in a long round box for the easy accessibility of the drill bits while working. Overall, the model comes with a whole lot of a thing you might need for your DIY tasks.

Things We Liked:

• Comes with a great mechanism of the drill bits.
• Bits are made of strong and qualitative materials.
• Arrives in a compact and standard box.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Requires careful using.

10. Bosch CO14B 14 Pc. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit Set

With the M42 cobalt drill bits, this product from Bosch is in our list as this one is also slaying the market. From light gauge metal to any stainless steel, titanium, and aluminum surface, the drill bits will work smoothly without creating any hassle.

Resisting high temperature the bits are long-lasting and can be used for a longer period. Delivering amplified solidity the bits drill clearing the materials fast. The web-helix feature also helps in the fast starting.

The 3/16 inch split point is a great feature as well. Weighing only 1.06 pounds the set is very light and compact in size. The three-flat shank feature carries an ergonomic grip of the bit. With just the right functionality of start-up, the drill bit decreases walking and penetrates to the deepest.

Overall, the Bosch CO 14B 14 Pc. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit Set can be your go-to DIY solution. This small tool can be a superb addition to your working tools as it offers just the same benefits that other best drill bits do.

Things We Liked:

• Made from 8 percent of M42 cobalt alloy.
• Comes in total 14 different pieces.
• Long-lasting and works effortlessly.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• The whole set is a bit expensive.

[Buyer’s Guide]

How to Choose the Best Drill Bits for Hardened Steel Bolt

To buy the best drill bit to make a perfect hole in a super hard steel bolt you get to do some research. Otherwise, you may put your hand on a complete loss project. As to deal with a steel bolt is not any easier task, you need to focus on the drill bits more and to buy them considering the points below.

Drill bit materials: The material of the drill bits is the most important thing one should consider before buying. The material of the bits should be stronger. It keeps the bits efficient for a longer time. Again, the steel is a very hard material, and not all type of drill bit has the capability of drilling it.

The cobalt drill bit sets are considered the toughest and strongest bits that can make holes on the surface of a steel bolt with no effort. Again, the HSS bits also have almost the same capacity and they come at an affordable value as well. Then again, the solid carbide drill bits for hardened steel are also the hardest yet the most fragile as well.

Coating materials: The coating is also an important point to be noticed while buying a drill bit set that you want last long. A good quality coating finish will keep the bits protected from rusts, corrosions, and other odds.

We see in most of the bits the coating is of titanium nitride. This coating is durable enough and also protects the bits. Moreover, the coating of black oxide is also famous for keeping the bit’s appearance the same even after lots of uses.

Size and angle of drill bits: The size of the bits matters depending on the drilling materials. If the material is hardened steel, then comparatively shorter bits will help a lot. Hence, all our suggested sets possess smaller drill bits. As the shorter bits are way rigid and stronger, they drill more accurately.

To speak about the angle, if you require a faster angle then 135-degree of slit point self-centering design will be suitable enough. Particularly on the steel surface, this angle works incredibly.

Flute feature: Flute design is also considered when you want to work on stainless steel. Many flutes come with a grooved feature twisting around the drill bits. The standard flute design will clear out the materials while drilling occurs.

Flute design that comes in a parabolic feature is a convenience to deal with soft material. But for the hard material like steel, flute angle of 30-degree is way appreciable.

Corrosion and rust resistant: The drill bits should be featured in a way that they can protect themselves from getting rusty or having unnecessary abrasion. It keeps the tool from being damaged and holds the strength for a long period.

No matter how high the temperature the bits should be corrosion-free. Hence, many bits require to be lubricated to remove obstacles and continue drilling.

So, these are the main cachet you should keep in the head before buying one if you want the best bang out of your bucks.

How to Drill Hardened Steel Bolt?

Drilling through a steel bolt requires a skillful hand along with an efficient machine. Controlled and steady hands are keys to drill a perfect hole in a hard surface like a steel bolt. Now, let’s see the steps one by one so that you do the job not less than a pro.

Firstly, set up your chosen bit to the machine: This is the first thing you need to do while setting up the machine for starting the work. For that, you have to remove the chuck from the claw to adjust the bit you want with its size. The bit needs to be sharpened before placing it.

Press the bit in the right position and make sure it is placed tightened. For making sure the smooth drilling, lubricate the bit with little oil.

Place the drilling material (steel): When you are done with the drill bit, it’s time to manage the steel and keep it on position. A strong holder made from metal should hold the steel in position. Then you have to mark out the places with a marker or pencil where you need to make holes.

Start drilling: Now, start the process keeping the drill over the spot you made creating a 90-degree angle to the steel surface. Start drilling at a very low speed and lightly push the machine towards the sheet. Do not force the task. Let the machine do all the jobs. Stop the process after a while and lubricate the bit.

Start again after some time and this time keep the medium speed. Keep pressing the trigger multiple times when you are almost done and stop the process when the bit touches the end.

Drill again then cleanup: When the drill loses the temperature, take it out and set a bigger bit and repeat the process till you get your desired hole. After that, wash up the lubricants from the bits and the metal where you made holes. Precautions are a must.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What can I use to drill through hardened steel?

For drilling hardened still a cobalt bit is always suggested. These bits are specifically manufactured to deal with hard materials like steel. A HSS (high speed steel) cobalt bit is way stronger and tougher as it contains immense cobalt material in it.

Hence, the cobalt drill bits are enough to make holes on the surface of hardened steel.

2. Is cobalt or titanium drill bits better?

Titanium drill bits are made for the drilling purposes of plastic, woods, and other softer materials. The titanium drill bits have the tendency of breaking down or being damaged if used on harder surfaces. On the other hand, the cobalt drill bits perform excellently on tougher and harder surfaces like metal and steel.

Hence, depending on the project material, you have to choose which one would do better for your work.

3. What kind of drill bit do I need to drill out a bolt?

Well, to drill out a bolt, you need to choose the bits that are way sturdy, hard, and highly strong. The razor sharpened edges are also required. The bits that are made of cobalt and HSS with a coating finish of titanium nitride will do the job just perfect with maximum durability.

4. Do the drill bits need to be re-sharpened?

Through re-sharpening, the drill bits will serve you for years. This process is highly required to extend the lifespan of the bits. A diamond file or bench grinder will do just fine to re-sharpen the drill bits easily.

5. Which size drill bits will be the best for drilling hardened steel, larger or smaller?

Smaller bits are always preferable for hardened steel. The smaller bits are comparatively sturdier and they create holes precisely offering greater speed. Hence, always choose the smaller bits rather than larger bits.

Final Thoughts

The best drill bit comes in many features and specifications. Yet, not all the best things you want will require a higher price. Our suggested models are not any exceptions. According to the price, quality, and performance the DEWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21- Piece (DW1361) is our all-time favorite and our first choice as well.

Know your needs and make the right decision while choosing the best drill bit for hardened steel bolt. Certainly, drilling will be a fun game for you if you do not choose the wrong tool to play. So, take some moment for research and know the buying guide, and then go out to buy.