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The Best Cobalt Drill Bit Sets in 2020 Are Reviewed Below
For every handyman, a good toolset is necessary. Asides from vocational professionals who work on construction and maintenance projects, some DIY projects may require the use of drill sets. While there are several drill bit sets, the types with cobalt last longer than the conventional types.
In this buying guide, we will review some cobalt made drill bits. There are many popular brands that manufacture work tools for different vocations. For example electric nail guns too. From these trusted brands, we have researched each of them to bring you the best. Read on to see the Best Cobalt Drill Bit Sets in 2020.
1
IRWIN Drill Bit Set
IRWIN Drill Bit Set contains spiral-shaped drill sets. In total, the drill bits are 29 pieces available in different sizes for a number of surfaces and purposes. The bits are available in 1/2 inch, 1/16 to 1/64 inches. The bits are well designed and strong enough to withstand hard surfaces.
When drill bits are made of cobalt, they are ideal for construction projects due to their strength. The components of the drill bits include 8% Cobalt alloy, Industrial grade steel, and all of which combine to make the IRWIN drill bits durable and suitable for long-term use. Added to the strength of bits, is their abrasion-resistant build.
With the 135-degree split point tip, drilling into any surface is no stress and fast. Also, the bits can drive through tough metal surfaces and wooden ones without clogging. Using the drill selection chart, an amateur on a DIY project will find it less challenging to use the bits. The rubber molded container houses the bits and the cartridge ensures each of them stays well arranged. The container makes it easy to carry the tools around.
Key Features:
- 29 bits
- 8% cobalt
- 135-degree split point tips
- Heat-treated
Specification:
- Brand: IRWIN
- Model: 3018002
Pros
- Durable
- Strong
- Long-lasting
Cons
- …
2
crafsman drill bits set
Are you in search of one of the best cobalt drill bit sets? Then Craftsman is ideal. The drill bits are 21 pieces designed to penetrate tough metal surfaces, cast iron, and stainless steel. With the use of oxide to coat the bits, every project becomes easy. The bits are available in 1/16 to 3/8 bits range. Given this size range, a hand tool worker can work on different materials and drill through any desired length.
The tips of the bits are shaped in a split point pattern. Due to this, when drilling,” walking” is eliminated totally to give smoothness to projects and also ensure that a user uses less force while at work. Further reinforcement of the bits is done with the addition of titanium and cobalt such that the set is of high quality and able to keep working well despite continuous use.
The bits are lined up in plastic cases when not in use to keep them intact. With the case being plastic, it’s easy to carry around. Craftsman bits set is ideal also for drilling through wood and plastic materials smoothly.
Key Features:
- 21 pieces of bits
- Titanium and cobalt finish
- Split point pattern
Specification:
- Brand: Craftsman
- Model: 9-64085
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Strong
- Drills through smoothly
Cons
- …
3
Bosch CO21B 21 Pc. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit Set
Bosch is a trusted brand known for manufacturing strong, durable, and reliable work tools. The Cobalt M42 Drill Bit Set from the stables of Bosch has spiral-shaped bits for smooth penetration. Also, the bits are jobber-length designed with 8% cobalt alloy to penetrate metals, cast iron, stainless steel, and more.
Since the bits are heat-treated, they are very much resistant to high temperatures and also suitable for continuous use while still maintaining their strength. With the thick web-helix build, the bits can penetrate tough surfaces while remaining stable. And this makes every project smooth with no room for error. The tips are fortified and designed in a skate manner to avoid ”walking through” while on a project. Also, the bits come in sizes of 1/8 inch, 3/16 inch, and have flat shank for proper stability.
All the bits stay in a cartridge that houses them singly, and a plastic case holds them a safe place. The case also makes it easy to carry them around easily without the fear of misplacing some. Bosch drill bits set is one of the best cobalt drill bit sets.
Key Features:
- 21 pieces of bits
- Spiral design
- 3-flat shank type
- Plastic case
Specification:
- Brand: Bosch
- Model: CO21B
Pros
- Stable
- Durable
- Strong
Cons
- …
4
DEWALT Cobalt Drill Bit Set
DEWALT cobalt drill bit set contains 14 pieces of different lengths and sizes of bits. The bits are designed for industrial use and therefore coated with cobalt to give strength and ensure durability. The pilot point design of the bits is built for fast and easy penetration. With less force, the bits can go through any surface without “walking” along.
The bits come in size 1/16″ (1) 5/64″ to (1) 3/8. Although of different sizes, the bits can penetrate I-beams, iron, and stainless steel effortlessly and in a stable fashion which gives the desired result when creating a hole. Additionally, the shape and material of the bits give more user control.
The bits set have a cartridge to store them, each piece safely stays in place when not in use. And for proper storage and movement especially for professionals, the cartridge has a plastic case. The case is strong and prevents the bits from external effects of moisture that cause damage.
Key Features:
- 12 bits
- Pilot point
- Split tip
- Plastic case
Specification:
- Brand: DEWALT
- Model: DWA1240
Pros
- Strong case
- Well packed
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- …
5
Drill America M-35 cobalt drill
The America M-35 cobalt drill is one of the best drill bits for metal. There are 29 pieces of bits for drilling through any surface. The bits have a gold oxide finish and cobalt material which make the bits strong enough to penetrate metals, cast iron, and stainless steel. The bits come in different sizes from 1/16 to 1/64. The 29 bits all have unique sizes but all have a spiral-shaped body.
With a 135-degree split point, each bit penetrates smoothly without clogging. Also, the use of gold oxide serves as a lubricant to reduce resistance when drilling. And the Cobalt material gives the bit adequate toughness for long-term use without incurring any damage, and more importantly to remain stable in any drilling project. The varying length of the drills makes it useable in different projects that require the use of short length drills.
The bits are arranged neatly in a circular pattern inside a plastic case. A case labeled parts for easy bits use. Also, the material of the case makes it resistant to wear and tear coupled with a handy design to make carrying it around easy.
Key Features:
- 29 bits
- Gold oxide coated
- Split point design
- Meets ANSI specification
Specification:
- Brand: Drill America
- Model: DWD29J-CO-PC
Pros
- Easy to use
- Strong
- Versatile
Cons
- …
6
Drill Hog drill bits set
Drill Hog is an m42 drill bit set. The M42 steel of this drill bits is reinforced to have a melting of close to 3000 Fahrenheit. With the strength of these bits, they can penetrate tough steel, stainless steel, and metal material.
From 1/16 inch size of the bit to 1/2 inch, all sizes are available for different purposes and a wide range of drilling projects. The bits are 29 pieces in total with 135 degrees split head type to make drilling through holes smooth without the bits ” walking” through holes to slow projects down.
Another advantage of the bits is the 68-70 HRC hardness that gives stability while drilling hard and somewhat soft surfaces. The bits are also in spiral shape with a 3-flat shank type. For easy carriage, the bits come in a box with a strong handle. Drill Hog is a set of cobalt drill bits for hardened steel, very durable.
Key Features:
- 135 degrees split head
- M42 steel
- Fire heated drill bits
- 29 pieces of bits
Specification:
- Brand: Drill Hog
- Model: 29M42GB
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Fast penetration
- Easy to use
Cons
- …
7
CO-Z Large HSS Spiral Groove Step Drill Bit
CO-Z drill bits set contains 12 pieces of bits, all spiral-shaped for easy penetration. For both professional and DIY projects, the bits can drive through wood, metal, and aluminum surfaces. Holes drilled are accurate without any clogging occurring.
For different sizes of holes ranging from 1/4 to 1/2, they are all designed with titanium finish and an X shaped head for sleek drilling without clogging and instability. The bits also have uncompromising quality and durability keeps the quality intact despite longterm use.
The dual flute design makes it possible to drill a hole without the tip of the bits heating up. For drilling holes with larger dimensions, the bits have special sizes to this end. While the strength of the bits can penetrate tough metals, they can also create neat and precise holes in plastic materials. Looking for the best cobalt drill bit sets? CO-Z is a top option.
Key Features:
- 12 pieces
- Titanium finish
- Spiral shape
Specification:
- Brand: CO-Z
- Model: B07CMPH9VY
Pros
- Strong
- Versatile
- Durable
Cons
- Limited sizes
8
Neiko 01925A Screw Extractor
Keiko is a top option when Looking for the best cobalt drill bit sets. The set contains 10 pieces of strong bits. All the bits come in different sizes and work both as an extractor and a drilling tool. The sizes range from 1/4 to 9/64 inches.
Each of the bits has spiral designs that smooth penetration through alloy, steel, metal and, hardwood. Added to the spiral design, the bits are used by handymen to remove some broken studs, as well as screws and bolts.
All the bits have cobalt finish which makes them strong for smooth penetration and useable continuously for different projects longterm. The set is easy to carry around; it comes with a strong case and ergonomic handle design. Keiko bits come with a metal cartridge for easy arrangement of the bits while not in use and to easily spot each size of bit.
Key Features:
- 10 pieces of bits
- Plastic case
- Metal cartridge
- Spiral design
Specification:
- Brand: Neiko
- Model: 01925A
Pros
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Accurate and versatile
Cons
- Limited pieces bits
9
EFFICERE HSS drill bits
EFFICERE is high-speed steel bits set built to perfection. The bits are eight and are big in size, being able to create a hole of about 1/2 diameter on metal, steel, and plastic material. The capacity of bits to drill through tough surfaces is enhanced by the presence of cobalt coupled with gold titanium. The gold titanium further is coupled with nitride as a finish for the drill bits. With this finish, the bits are better lubricated for excellent and smooth drills when in use.
Furthermore, the bits are 80% better than other types coated with enamels. The makeup of each of the bit gives fortification against corrosion. Wobbling and clogging are avoided due to the 135 degrees split point design of the bits. The design increases drilling speed and aids self-centering which adds to the stability of the bits when in use.
Slip elimination is important when drilling, and as such the bits have tri-flattened ends for proper firmness in a drilling machine. The bits set are packed into a silver case and singly into aluminum cartridge storage. EFFICERE is a dependable set of drill bits that are durable and long-lasting. EFFICERE is among the best cobalt drill bits set available on the market.
Key Features:
- Gold and titanium finish
- 8 pieces of bits
- Silver case
- 3-flat shank type
Specification:
- Brand: EFFICERE
- Model: B074GYFPL4
Pros
- Strong bits
- Durable
- Excellent bit finish
Cons
- Few bits
10
EnerTwist Titanium
Enertwist is a unique drill set with many features different from conventional drill bits set. First is the amazing 230 pieces of bits. EnerTwist has one of the most abundant bits in just a set. All the bits are titanium finished and available in any size you can ever think of, or may ever need. The bits are made of high-speed steel 4241for fast, quick, and smooth penetration of wood, plastic, aluminum, cast iron, and stainless still.
EnerTwist is further coated with nitride and enhanced with 118 degrees point tip which gives utmost durability and lasts a lot longer than common bits. There is a sponged design on each bit to differentiate them and also give firmness when in use. While some bits are 3-flat shape, the EnerTwist bits are round. During the build-up when drilling, the titanium finish of the bits reduces heat.
The bits are well arranged in a cartridge and each placed in a position to avoid mix up, then all placed in a plastic case. The plastic case is fitted with metal buckles to securely lock the bits when not in use, and also, to carry the 230 pieces safely around when work requires it. It’s one of the best drill bits for metal, a good tool for vocational workers.
Key Features:
- 230 bits set
- 118-degree point
- Titanium finish
- Round shank
Specification:
- Brand: ENERTWIST
- Model: ET-DBA-230A
Pros
- Versatile
- Affordable and unique
- Durable
Cons
- …
Buying Guide Questions
The buying guide section contains lots of questions you may have regarding the use and management of cobalt drill bits. Furthermore, the comparison between the cobalt drills and other options will show which tool to use for DIY and professional projects. So, read on!
Who makes the best cobalt drill bits?
Irwin cobalt drill bits are the best. Which makes IRWIN the best manufacturer of cobalt drills. Irwin uses cobalt of up 8% coupled alloy to strengthen their bits. The bits are better suitable for creating holes through tough metals, stainless steel, cast iron, and other materials that can be wooden or plastic. Irwin cobalt is the M-42 with 8% of alloy.
The build of this drill bits gives a fortification that is resistant to heat. When drilling, the friction between the surface and the bits causes heat that may affect the size of low-quality drill bits. However, the finish on Irwin bits keeps the drill bits intact without reducing in quality and size.
Now, heat generated varies when drilling. Some drill bits can withstand heat from 1000 F to 1300 or 1500 F. But Irwin withstands up to 2800 F heat when drilling.
Naturally due to the quality of cobalt drills, and if they are the M-42 type, the purchase price is always very high. However, although not cheap, the Irwin cobalt drill set is not too expensive despite the high quality.
Which is better m35 or m42 Cobalt?
When comparing the m35 vs. m42 cobalt drill bits, many are confused as to which is better. The m35 comes after the m2 in order of strength and toughness. It contains about 5% of cobalt which cuts fasts and lasts long. The m35 can go through tough steel material and can withstand heat.
The m42 is molybdenum-series high-speed steel with alloy and 8% cobalt. The higher cobalt content in m42 drill bits gives added toughness and excellent cutting speed. The heat resistance level of the m42 is a lot high and despite continuous use, it doesn’t chip. In most cases for industrial works, the m42 cobalt is the standard.
In comparison, the m42 is better than m35 in terms of strength, resistance to heat, penetration, and longevity. Also, another advantage the m42 has over the m35 is the increased Cobalt content and alloy. But this is not to downplay the efficiency of the m35. In reality, the m35 is also very durable and has excellent heat quality.
What are cobalt drill bits for
Cobalt drill bits are used for drilling holes in tough metal and iron materials. A cobalt drill bit can be m35 or m42, that is the former will have 5% cobalt content while the latter has 8%. Despite the variation, both do an extraordinary job of resisting heat while drilling. The major problem when drilling is that the process results in friction that brings about intense heat. Now, if a worker is using an ordinary steel bit, the intense heat will melt or destroy the steel bit. With the use of cobalt drill bits, the presence of cobalt helps to reduce the effect of intense heat.
Some cobalt can at least resist the heat of about 1500 Fahrenheit, while some can even do more. So, this means that the intense heat during drilling will not reduce the size of the bit, or even destroy it. A cobalt drill bit will conveniently cut through at high speed and intense heat. So, when it comes to drilling holes through plastic, hardwood, and most importantly through cast iron and extremely tough metal, the cobalt drill bits are ideal and suitable for the task.
Are cobalt drill bits better?
Among many drilling bits used by handymen, the cobalt is considered better. While many drill bits cannot withstand high heat, the cobalt types are able to withstand high amount of heat. Also in terms of industrial use, they are considered the best due to their well-fortified design. The cobalt is highly recommended by professionals for hard drilling jobs.
Cobalt drillings can penetrate not just regular surfaces, and materials, but also tough surfaces. Talk of cast iron, abrasive metals, and extremely strong objects.
Despite the fact that they penetrate hard surfaces, the bits also require less effort. And this is due to their build. The bits have a well-designed body that can penetrate at high speed.
Lastly, the cobalt drill bits are durable and don’t chip. Regardless of how tough the surfaces can be, the bits do not chip or break when in use. They go in strong and penetrate without being destroyed in the process. And because they do not chip, they create accurate holes at all times. They can also be sharpened for customized applications in different projects. So, overall, cobalt drill bits are better than most drill bits.
Which is better cobalt or titanium drill bits?
Cobalt and titanium drill bits are two different types of drill bits used in drilling projects. Both are used to create holes in different materials like metals and iron. While both are good, there are little differences in their components, strength, and application. Picking which is better between the cobalt or titanium drill bits is a bit tricky. Why? It’s tricky because the application of both varies depending on the work at hand.
Cobalt bits can cut through any material but particularly, they are designed to penetrate tough metals with extreme strength. Titanium drill bits on the other hand are not as tough as the cobalt although they are also used to cut through tough metals.
In terms of sharpening, the cobalt drill bits are easy to sharpen whereas the titanium are not. The titanium drill bits only have the titanium as a coating. So, when there is an attempt to sharpen them, the titanium coating cones off as well, and this reduces the size and stability of the bits.
Temperature resistance is the next factor to consider. When the temperature is high when drilling, cobalt drill bits are unaffected. But as for titanium bits, when the temperature gets intense, a time will come when the titanium coating on the bits will be affected and cause an error in performance.
Are cobalt drill bits radioactive?
No, despite the belief of some that cobalt is radioactive. Radioactive substances give many people concerns due to the negative effect it has on health. Therefore many are bothered about the effect the cobalt drill bits have on them. However, cobalt drill bits are not radioactive instead they are used at nuclear plants as control rods.
To further ascertain the safety of cobalt, it’s good to mention that it is used to absorb radiation.
Which is better carbide or cobalt?
Cobalt and carbide are also used in making drill bits. But the question is, which is better? To discern this, it better to know how each of them fares when used in the drilling process.
When it comes to making holes in metals, cobalt is better. The strength of cobalt is able to withstand the intense heat generated when drilling to metals. As for carbide, the intense heat of metal drilling cannot make it unstable after continuous use, in fact, carbide is known to absorb more heat than cobalt. In the aspects of drilling stone and masonry, the carbide is higher in toughness, strength, and durability. It drills stone fast and accurately. While cobalt can also drill holes on stones, it best for metal.
Speed is the next criterion for comparison. The speed of the carbide when drilling is a bit faster than cobalt. Although it’s good to note that the difference in speed is relatively small. However, a major reason why cobalt is still used more than carbide and even more expensive is due to its durability and longevity. Cobalt lasts longer and can also achieve what a carbide can.
What is the difference between HSS and cobalt?
HSS is a high carbon material with ample tungsten content. It further contains alloy, vanadium, and chromium. HSS is used majorly on plastic, wood, and soft steel. HSS can easily penetrate when used on the right types of material surfaces.
Cobalt on the other hand also functions in a similar way to the HSS but with little differences. While the cobalt can also drill through plastic, wood, and various surfaces, it can do more. Tough metals are easy for cobalt to drill, while HSS can only drill soft steel.
Temperature resistance capacity is the next subject up for consideration. Both HSS and cobalt resist temperature. However, HSS can only withstand low to average heat, but cobalt can withstand high to intense heat.
Are cobalt drill bits better than HSS?
Yes, cobalt drill bits better than HSS. HSS is mainly used on plastic, wood, and steel with mild strength. Also, check tools for tools for cutting drywall. For any drilling project pertaining to tough surfaces, HSS drill bits will perform badly. The bits are not built to penetrate iron, tough metals, and stainless steel. When HSS bits are used on these tough metals, they will chip, and possibly get totally destroyed due to intense heat caused by friction when drilling.
For cobalt drill bits, they are among the best drilling tools. Cobalt bits can drill through plastic, hardwood, and seemingly soft material. However, the upper hand over HSS is revealed in its strength when it comes to drilling through tough surfaces. Cobalt is stronger and will go through any tough metal. The Cobalt bits can withstand intense heat and remain stable despite longterm use.
So, in picking which is best, unless a project requires drilling through cast iron, it’s hard to tell the difference between HSS and cobalt. And this because when it comes to plastic, wood, and materials with mild strength, both work the same way.
Can you use cobalt drill bits in wood?
Yes, but with caution. Due to the strength of the cobalt drill bits, drilling through any surface or material is possible. That also includes wood; be it softwood, the mild type, or even the hard ones. The caution when drilling wood with any size of a cobalt drill bit is to drill gently to avoid destroying the wood. If you drill too hard, the wood may split rather than drill. Due to the absence of a brad that stops bits from slipping, the wood may just cut into two. So, use cobalt drill bits on wood with caution.
Can Cobalt Drill Bits be sharpened?
Yes. After continuous use of cobalt drill bits, they also become blunt and may require sharpening. The cutting edge is the precise part to sharpen. You can take the cobalt drill bits to a professional to have it sharpened or do it yourself. Simply get a bench sharpener to sharpen the bits at home.
Conclusion
The 10 best cobalt drill bit sets available on the market have been examined, so look at the features of each and make an informed decision when making a purchase.