The hardest and most wear-resistant drill bits you can buy. Carbide bits stay sharp at high temperatures and faster speeds for the best performance on hard and difficult-to-machine materials. They last 10 to 20 times longer than their closest alternative, cobalt steel. Carbide can be brittle, however, so these bits require a rigid machine tool holder to prevent breakage and should not be used in hand drilling applications.

The shank fits the same-size chuck as standard drill bits, so you can spend less time setting up. Because these bits make very small holes, they’re often used for drilling circuit boards. Carbide bits are the the hardest and most wear resistant. They stay sharp at high temperatures and faster speeds for the best performance on hard and difficult-to-machine materials. Carbide can be brittle, however, so bits require a rigid machine tool holder to prevent breakage and should not be used in hand drilling applications.

These bits combine the toughness and wear resistance of cobalt with short flutes for rigidity. The shallow drilling depth makes them less likely to wobble than other bits of the same length, so they stay centered and drill straighter. Cobalt lasts at least twice as long as high-speed steel. It can also run up to 25% faster at higher temperatures without damaging the bit on hard materials such as nickel.

With flutes that lift chips out of the hole, you don't have to stop drilling to clear these bits manually. They improve coolant flow to dissipate heat and prevent clogs that can damage the bit and ruin the hole. High-speed steel is good for general purpose drilling in most metals.