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Best Jobber Drill Bits for Drilling Stainless Steel (2026)

We evaluated bits by alloy/material (M42 cobalt or HSS), tip geometry, length options, user ratings, and overall value across reputable tool brands

This roundup covers jobber-length drill bits suited for drilling stainless steel, focusing on cobalt and high-speed steel variants and relevant lengths for metalwork. Picks were chosen based on material composition (M42 cobalt or HSS), user ratings, length/extension options, and overall value across brands like Bosch and Drill America

Top Picks

  1. 1
    BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case

    BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case

    Bosch • ★ 4.2/5 • Mid-Range

    Cobalt M42 drill bits with a three-flat shank for drilling stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, and light-gauge metal. Durable, heat-resistant bits designed to extend life. Users note good quality and edge retention, with mixed durability reports

    • 3-flat shank design
    • Enhanced M42 cobalt alloy (8% cobalt)
    • 14-piece set with included case
    Check current price on Amazon →
  2. 2
    Drill America 1-1/2" Reduced Shank HS drill bit KFD series

    Drill America 1-1/2" Reduced Shank HS drill bit KFD series

    Chicology • ★ 4.1/5 • Mid-Range

    High-speed steel drill bit with gold/black coating for wear resistance and versatile use in hard metals. Shows good hole accuracy with mixed feedback on durability and sharpness

    • wear-resistant coating
    • versatile toolholding compatibility
    • split point for easier starting
    Buy at Amazon →
  3. 3
  4. 4
    3/16" x 6" cobalt aircraft extension drill bit (pack of 12)

    3/16" x 6" cobalt aircraft extension drill bit (pack of 12)

    Drill America • ★ 4.1/5 • Mid-Range

    Cobalt drill bit with 3/16" diameter and 6" length, designed for tough materials. 135 split point helps prevent walking; round shanks fit various tool holders. Customers report sharp cuts and good value, with mixed durability reactions

    • split-point design for starting accuracy
    • coated cobalt for hardness
    • versatile shank design
    Check current price on Amazon →
  5. 5

Buying Guide

Choose the right material

For stainless steel, prefer M42 cobalt or hardened HSS with cobalt content—these maintain hardness at high cutting temperatures and resist wear better than standard HSS

Pick appropriate length and shank

Use jobber-length bits for general shop work and 6" extensions for deep or hard-to-reach holes; ensure shank diameter matches your chuck for secure grip

Look for split-point or 135° angles

A 135° split-point or similar tip geometry reduces walking on stainless steel and improves centering without a pilot hole

Consider set size and mix

Sets that include common fractional and fractional-to-metric sizes offer flexibility for different fasteners and projects, delivering better value than single bits

Evaluate brand reputation and ratings

Brands with consistent user ratings and industry-standard materials—such as Bosch and Drill America—indicate reliable manufacturing quality and consistency