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Best Step Drill Bits for Drilling Stainless Steel (2026)

We evaluated step drill bits by material composition (M35 cobalt vs HSS), coating type (TiAlN/titanium), size coverage, user ratings, and value for typical stainless steel tasks

This roundup covers step drill bits suited for drilling stainless steel, focusing on fit for thicker, hardened metals and overall value across common sizes and coatings. Picks were chosen by comparing material grade (M35 cobalt vs HSS), protective coatings (TiAlN/titanium), size ranges, and user ratings to balance durability and cost-effectiveness

Top Picks

  1. 1
    TEMO M35 cobalt spiral flute step drill with 12 sizes

    TEMO M35 cobalt spiral flute step drill with 12 sizes

    TEMO • ★ 4.1/5 • Budget

    TEMO M35 cobalt step drill with titanium coating covers 12 hole sizes from 3/16" to 7/8" and a 1/4" hex shank. Durable, sharp cutting suited for steel; customers note quick work and good value

    • 12 hole sizes
    • M35 cobalt with titanium coating
    • 1/4" hex shank
    Buy at Amazon →
  2. 2
    3 PCS Cobalt M35 Step Drill Bits Set 1/8" to 7/8"

    3 PCS Cobalt M35 Step Drill Bits Set 1/8" to 7/8"

    IRONANT • ★ 4.0/5 • Mid-Range

    M35 HSS with TiAlN coating step bits for stainless steel, metal, aluminum, and plastic. 4-spiral flute design aids chip removal and faster cutting; includes self-centering 118° split point tip. Customer notes good quality, value, and durability with multiple hole sizes and storage case

    • coated cobalt HSS for durability
    • 4-spiral flute for chip ejection
    • range 1/8" to 7/8" with split point
    Check current price on Amazon →
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Buying Guide

Choose M35 cobalt for stainless

M35 cobalt alloys retain hardness at higher cutting temperatures and resist wear when drilling stainless steel, making them a reliable choice for prolonged metal work

Prefer TiAlN or titanium coatings

TiAlN and titanium coatings reduce friction and heat buildup, extending bit life and improving cut quality on stainless; look for these coatings on step bits intended for metal

Match step range to your projects

Select a bit or set that covers the hole diameters you use most often—wider step ranges reduce bit changes but may sacrifice precision for specific sizes

Check shank and mounting style

Hex or quick-change shanks improve grip in cordless drills and reduce slipping under high torque compared with plain round shanks

Balance single-piece vs multi-step sets

Single dual-size or multi-step bits save space and speed work, while dedicated sets provide specialized steps and can offer better wear distribution across tasks