How to choose the right drill bit set

Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.

What drill bit materials are best for your projects?

The most common bit material is high-speed steel (HSS). It’s a solid all-rounder for wood, plastic, and soft metals, but it dulls quickly on harder surfaces. For tougher jobs, stainless steel or cast iron, cobalt bits (often labeled M35 or M42) stay sharp much longer. Carbide-tipped bits are the go-to for masonry and tile, though they’re brittle if twisted in wood. For everyday DIY, an HSS set with a titanium nitride coating adds heat resistance and extends life. Black oxide bits offer some corrosion resistance and are a slight step up from plain HSS. Don’t overpay for coatings if you only drill softwood, uncoated HSS will do just fine.

Should you buy a bit set or individual bits?

Bit sets are convenient and often budget-friendly, but the quality of included sizes can vary. A good starter set typically ranges from 15 to 30 pieces, covering 1/16-inch up to 1/2-inch in 1/64-inch steps. Larger sets (over 50 pieces) usually include duplicates of common sizes and sometimes specialty bits, but you may end up paying for pieces you rarely use. If you find yourself constantly drilling a specific size, say 3/8-inch for anchors, buying a few high-quality individual bits in that size can be smarter. For most homeowners, a reputable 21- or 29-piece set from a known brand balances cost and capability.

How do bit coatings and finishes affect performance?

Coatings reduce friction and heat, letting the bit cut faster and last longer. Titanium nitride (gold) is the most common upgrade over plain HSS; it’s good for general drilling but can flake if abused. Black oxide provides mild corrosion resistance and helps the bit glide in wood, it’s actually a treatment, not a coating, but works for occasional use. For heavy metal drilling, look for cobalt bits (which are an alloy, not a coating) or titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN, often dark gray or blue). These handle high heat much better. Be wary of cheap “titanium” sets that use a thin coating, they wear off quickly. A quality coating should look uniform and cover the flutes, not just the tip.

What about specialty bits? when do you need them?

Standard twist bits work for most tasks, but certain materials call for dedicated designs. For masonry (brick, concrete, stone), use bits with a carbide tip and a hammer drill. For glass and tile, a spear-point carbide bit prevents chipping. Spade bits and Forstner bits are for larger holes in wood, spades are fast and cheap, Forstners leave cleaner edges. If you drill metal frequently, consider step bits (unibit) for thin sheet metal, they cut without grabbing. For very hard steel, a cobalt split-point bit reduces walking and heat buildup. Don’t use a wood boring bit on metal; the geometry is wrong for chip evacuation and can overheat quickly.

How important is the bit’s shank? round vs. hex?

Most drill bits have round shanks that fit into a standard three-jaw chuck. That works fine for corded and cordless drills. But if you use an impact driver as your main drill, common in quick-driver setups, hex shanks are better because they lock into the collet and prevent slip. Some sets include a hybrid design: a round shank with a small hex indentation near the end, which can be gripped by an impact driver’s chuck. For pure versatility, choose a set whose shanks are compatible with your tool. If you own both a drill and an impact driver, a multi-chuck adapter can let you use round-shank bits in an impact driver, but it adds length.

How should you store and maintain a drill bit set?

A good case saves frustration: look for a sturdy plastic or metal box with individual slots to keep sizes organized and protect bit tips from rattling. Many sets come with a case that doubles as a drill index, you can quickly pop out the bit you need without dumping the entire set. To extend bit life, keep them clean and dry, especially if you drill metal. A light wipe of oil (like 3-in-1) after use prevents rust. Sharpen dull bits with a bench grinder or a dedicated sharpener, many HSS bits can be touched up several times before they’re spent. Never store bits loose in a drawer where they’ll knock against each other and chip.

Frequently asked questions