Best Jobber Drill Bits for Drilling Stainless Steel (2026)

• 5 products compared from 3 brands • avg ItemOracle score 4.1/5

We selected jobber drill bits based on material (cobalt vs HSS), length/shank options, size range in sets, and value for stainless steel drilling

The Verdict

This roundup evaluates jobber-length drill bits suited for drilling stainless steel, focusing on materials, length, and shank style to match metalworking needs. Picks were chosen from cobalt and high-speed steel options with attention to durability, fit for hand drills or drill presses, and overall value

Top Picks

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

    Best Overall BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case

    Bosch • ★ 4.2/5 • Mid-Range

    Best for M42 performance: cobalt alloy and three-flat shanks deliver durable cutting and secure chuck grip

    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

    Best for large reduced-shank holes: reduced shank design adapts large diameters to smaller chucks for heavy-duty cuts

    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
    1/8" x 6" cobalt aircraft extension drill bit (12 pack) GLBCO

    Best Value 1/8" x 6" cobalt aircraft extension drill bit (12 pack) GLBCO

    Drill America • ★ 4.1/5 • Budget

    Best for reach: long 6-inch aircraft extension cobalt bits access deep or recessed holes while retaining heat resistance

    Cobalt aircraft extension drill bit set designed for tough materials. 135° split point helps prevent walking and round shanks fit various tool holding systems. Customers note quality and ease of drilling; some report durability issues

    • cobalt alloy for tough metals
    • 135 split point reduces walking
    • multiple material compatibility
    Check current price on Amazon →
  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

    Best for medium diameters at length: 3/16" by 6" cobalt extensions combine size versatility with extended reach

    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
    Drill America D/ACO cobalt heavy duty drill bit set (12)

    Drill America D/ACO cobalt heavy duty drill bit set (12)

    Drill America • ★ 4.0/5 • Budget

    heavy-duty option: cobalt construction and round-shank format supply robust drilling for tougher stainless tasks

    Cobalt steel drill bits designed for harder metals with thin gold oxide coating and round shanks for versatile toolholding. Customers note sharp cuts, high durability, and good value

    • coated for performance on hard metals
    • round shank versatility
    • aerospace-standard manufacturing
    Check current price on Amazon →

Buying Guide

Choose cobalt (M42) for stainless

Cobalt alloys (M42) resist heat and work hardening, so they cut stainless steel longer than standard HSS

Select appropriate bit length

Longer 6" aircraft extension bits reach recessed holes but need steady support to avoid walking and breakage

Match shank to your chuck

Three-flat or reduced shanks help fit keyed chucks and prevent slipping in drill presses or handheld drills

Look for split-point or parabolic geometry

Sharp split points reduce walking and improve centering on stainless without pilot pecking

Consider set composition and sizes

Sets covering common fractional and metric sizes reduce the need to buy single bits for varied hole diameters

Prioritize proper feeds, speeds, and coolant

Using lower speeds, steady pressure, and cutting oil extends bit life when drilling stainless steel