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.

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 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.

Produce holes so precise that you don’t need to finish them with a reamer. The double-edged flutes keep these bits centered to drill straighter and smoother than other types, especially in hard metals and composites such as fiberglass. Also known as double-margin drill bits. High-speed steel is the versatile choice for drilling most metals.

Straight flutes withstand the heavy pressure needed to penetrate hardened steel. These bits cut more aggressively and resist stress better than spiral-flute bits. A lower-priced alternative to solid carbide, they stay sharp when drilling abrasive material but won’t last as long.

The rigidity of short-length bits without sacrificing reach. The shallow drilling depth makes these less likely to wobble than other bits of the same length, so they stay centered and drill straighter. High-speed steel is good for general purpose drilling in most metals.

With more cutting edges than other drill bits, these cut continuously and consistently for a smoother finish. They also stay centered to produce holes that are straighter and more accurate. However, since there’s less space between the cutting edges, they don’t clear chips as quickly. Made of carbide, these are the hardest and most wear-resistant drill bits you can buy. 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 these bits require a rigid machine tool holder to prevent breakage and should not be used in hand drilling applications.