Best Reduced Shank Drill Bits for Drilling Stainless Steel (2026)
We selected bits based on shank compatibility, cobalt material, size coverage for stainless applications, and overall value for typical metalworking setups
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Drill America 57/64in Reduced Shank Cobalt Drill Bit — Best for mid-size holes: reduced shank cobalt build provides heat resistance and fits standard chucks reliably
- Best Value: Drill America 29/32" cobalt drill bit, 1/2" shank — Best for larger diameters: 29/32" cutting diameter with a 1/2" shank balances reach and chuck compatibility
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Drill America 57/64in Reduced Shank Cobalt Drill Bit
Best for mid-size holes: reduced shank cobalt build provides heat resistance and fits standard chucks reliably
Cobalt drill bit with 1/2in shank for harder metals. Improves performance with cobalt content and gold oxide surface. Some customers report variability in dullness and durability
- cobalt enhanced performance for hard metals
- versatile round shank for diverse toolholders
- aerospace standard 907 compliance
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2
Best Value Drill America 29/32" cobalt drill bit, 1/2" shank
Best for larger diameters: 29/32" cutting diameter with a 1/2" shank balances reach and chuck compatibility
Cobalt steel drill bit with round shank for versatile toolholding. Designed for harder metals with cobalt content; gold oxide surface indicates coating type. Customer insight notes mixed results on sharpness and durability
- cobalt for hard metals
- round shank compatibility
- aerospace standard 907
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3
Drill America 15/16 in Reduced Shank Cobalt Drill Bit
Best for very large holes: 15/16" reduced shank cobalt design handles heavy metalwork while remaining drill-press friendly
Cobalt drill bit with 1/2 in round shank for use in various toolholding systems. Designed for drilling harder metals; features a gold oxide surface and counterclockwise chip evacuation. One customer note highlights varied sharpness and durability
- cobalt for harder metals
- round shank for versatile holders
- aerospace-standard 907