Drill bits are an essential part of any toolkit. Whether you're drilling holes in wood, metal, or masonry, you'll need the right drill bit for the job.
It can be tricky to know exactly which drill bit is needed for what DIY project, though, as there are so many choices in terms of both drill bit materials and styles, and your decision of which one can depend on whether you are working with soft metals, thin metal, sheet metal, or harder materials like cast iron.
With this in mind, we are going to be running through some of the best drill bits that every DIY fan should add to their toolbox, including the best drill bit sets with varying bit sizes to drill holes!
COMOWARE Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set
This is an excellent choice when it comes to twist drill bits, which are one of the most common kinds of drill bits that are often used with a cordless drill, or a drill press.
The high-speed steel construction of the drill bits makes for a honed and hardened drill bit that can easily do precise drilling into even cast iron, let alone softer metal or wood, whilst the titanium coating increases the durability as well as the capability, making them perfect for drill presses that can produce incredibly clean holes.
Staggered cutting teeth along with a chatter-free design make for clean and smooth drilling as well as precise countersinking.
These drill bits feature a two flute form on the body, a design that clears debris from the drill bit with ease and decreases the heat and friction so that you can drill quicker without running the risk of overheating, which is great for drilling wood, and will allow you to effectively drill like never before.
As well as this, the 135-degree split point tips of the drill bits feature a twist and tip design that speeds up the cutting process whilst reducing walking thanks to the self-centering, which makes it easier to drill wood.
With all general size specifications included, you are sure to find the right fit for your DIY needs with this set of drill bits.
Pros
- One of the best choices of twist drill bits
- HSS titanium coating
- Flute form
- Holder to keep the drill bits organized
- A quarter inch hex shank allows for quick changes and fits into drills securely and with ease
- Wide range of size specifications
Cons
- Not as suitable for more specialized drilling purposes due to the twist design
IRWIN Drill Bit Set
An excellent, all-rounder drill bit set, IRWIN offers 29 drill bits in a range of sizes which are all incredibly versatile and easy to use, whether you're a professional or a beginner to DIY.
The drill bits in this set are made from cobalt alloy steel are perfect to resist against abrasions and higher temperatures. This makes them perfect for drilling into tough metals, such as hardened steel.
Cobalt is also an excellent choice of material for drill bits, thanks to its strength and its ability to extend the life of your cutting edges and create clean holes thanks to its sharp tip, and its ability to create deep holes that are incredibly accommodating for all manner of drill bits, no matter whether working with thin metal, or stronger metal.
These drill bits are also particularly durable and strong thanks to being made with heavy-duty web construction to create multiple hole sizes even when drilling slightly harder and with more force.
You could even drill through a ceramic tile with precision thanks to masonry drill bits included in the drill bit set.
The spade drill bit in particular is very effective, more so than a forstner drill bit or another standard spade bit.
The 135-degree split point tips create less force so that there isn't as much of a risk of walking, whereas a rubber over molded case ensures that your tools and drill bits will be protected from damage if you accidentally drop them and end up with a broken screw!
All of the various bits, like wood drill bits, titanium drill bits, and brad point bits have various drill bit sizes that allow you to achieve very different things, similar to hole saws or power drills.
Pros
- An excellent overall choice
- Cobalt alloy material
- 29 drill bits that range from 1/16 inches to ½ inch drill bits, in increments of 1/64 inch increments
- Reduced shanks for larger drill bits so that they can be used in a standard ⅜ inch chuck drill without having to use an adapter.
- Tap and drill selection chart is very helpful to those who are new to drilling and drill bits
- Durable protective case
Cons
- Expensive
DEWALT Drill Bit Set
This comprehensive set of drill bits from DEWALT features a titanium coating, making for a durable and strong option.
The strength of these drill bits are as such that they are an amazing choice when it comes to a drill bit to be used with hardened steel.
The patented drill bit bar design also makes them easy to remove, whilst the web taper emphasizes the rigidity of the drill bit and prevents breakage.
Speed and precision are also key features, with the Pilot Point tip offering this as well as burr-free drilling and reduced walking.
Whether it is plastic, wood or metal, there is a lot that can be done with these drill bits, making them a particularly versatile choice as well as one that is perfect for DIY projects that involve drilling through hard materials.
Pros
- Titanium coating
- Durable and very strong
- Incredibly versatile
- Pilot point top reduces walking and allows for clean and burr free holes
- 21 drill bits
Cons
- Some drill bits are duplications of smaller sizes
Makita B-49373 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set
Another highly versatile set, the Makita drill and screw drill bit set features drill bits that are suitable for drilling in masonry, metal and wood.
The varied set also features power and insert drill bits to provide a range of options when it comes to fastening and fixing. The sheer range of choice with this set makes it a choice that is well suited for professionals.
This one-stop shop for convenient sockets and drill bits includes titanium nitride coated, high speed steel drill bits as well as masonry hammer drill bits, brad point drill bits and wooden drill bits to name a few.
A handy carrying case also means that your drill and screw drill bits are sure to stay organized and safe.
Pros
- Hugely versatile and comprehensive set
- Well suited to various materials
- Able to be used with impact drivers
- HSS titanium nitride coating
- Includes insert and power drill bits for both fixing and fastening
Cons
- Might not be necessary for simpler DIY projects or for beginners.
Buyers Guide
What is it that you need to look out for when it comes to picking out the best drill bits to suit your needs? Have a read of our buyer's guide to find out!
Type
This is quite possibly the most important factor to consider when choosing a drill bit. Drill bits are split up into different categories, which vary depending on their function.
For instance, heavy-duty drill bits tend to be fashioned with a center tip to allow for larger holes to be drilled. Twist drill bits are general purpose, whilst brad-point drill bits are intended for use with wood.
Being aware of the type of drill bit for your DIY needs is an absolute essential, so ensure that you know what you need before you make a purchase.
Material
The finishes that are applied, and the materials used to make drill bits will have a significant impact on the performance and life span of the drill bit, so do your research beforehand so that you know exactly what kind of materials suits your needs the best.
Some example of this would be high speed steel drill bits being great for use with materials such as soft metals- like aluminum- wood, PVC and fiberglass, but they don't have the durability of other drill bits, such as cobalt drill bits which are particular robust and designed to disperse heat.
Dimensions
The tip and the shank of the drill bits are the most important measurements to consider, with the shank referring to the section of the drill bit that slots into the chuck of the drill.
The shanks of your drill bits will need to be either smaller or the same size of the chuck, so make sure you have checked these measurements before you decide on your drill bit.
Final Thoughts
Those are just a few of the best drill bits currently on the market, with some being the best for overall performance and some being the best for specific kinds of drilling.
Once you know exactly what you are planning to do in terms of DIY, you should be able to start making decisions as to what kind of drill bits you will need.
As long as you consider the factors that we discussed in the buyer's guide, you should be able to find the perfect drill bit!