Tough and wear resistant, cobalt steel bits last at least twice as long as high-speed steel. They can also run up to 25% faster at higher temperatures without being damaged on hard materials, such as nickel.

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.

Performance similar to solid carbide but at a lower price point. Like carbide bits, these are stronger than cobalt and high-speed steel and maintain their sharp edges when drilling abrasive material. However, when drilling tough metals like iron and hardened steel, upgrade to carbide for longer life.

With flutes that spiral in the opposite direction of other bits, these are primarily used to remove stripped screws. Choose a bit that’s slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw’s head. Set your power tool to rotate in reverse. Slowly drill in the center of the screw head, maintaining constant pressure. As the bit penetrates, it will catch onto the screw and reverse it out of the hole. If the screw is badly stripped, you might need to punch a starter hole. Also known as reverse-flute bits. High-speed steel is the versatile choice for drilling most metals.

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.