6 Best Jobber Length Drill Bits for General Metalwork

Drilling through metal panels or structural steel requires more than just a sharp bit; it demands a tool that can handle the heat generated by friction without losing its temper. Choosing the right jobber length bit prevents snapped shanks, prevents “walking” on slick metal surfaces, and saves hours of frustration on the roof. Relying on bargain-bin hardware store bits usually results in premature dulling or, worse, a broken bit stuck inside a piece of expensive flashing. These selections represent the standard for durability, speed, and precision in professional metalwork.

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DeWalt Pilot Point Cobalt: Best Overall Set

When speed and accuracy are paramount, the DeWalt Pilot Point Cobalt set is the gold standard for most job sites. The standout feature is the unique tip design, which prevents the bit from dancing around when trying to start a hole in rigid metal panels.

This design significantly reduces the chance of scratching the finish on pre-painted metal roofing or siding. The bit engages the material immediately, providing a clean start that protects the integrity of the surface coating.

Because these bits feature a cobalt alloy, they maintain their edge during repetitive drilling in stainless steel or heavy-gauge trim. They represent a balanced choice that thrives in both the high-torque environment of a drill press and the variable speeds of a cordless hand drill.

Milwaukee RED HELIX Cobalt: Most Durable

Durability on the job site is often measured by how many holes a bit can cut before needing a resharpening or replacement. The Milwaukee RED HELIX line is engineered with a variable helix design that excels at clearing chips rapidly.

Rapid chip evacuation is the secret to longevity. When metal shavings build up in the flutes, friction spikes and heat builds up quickly, which ruins the cutting edge of even the best bits.

By pushing that heat away from the cutting surface, these bits last significantly longer than standard cobalt offerings. Expect them to survive the grind of drilling through multiple layers of overlapping metal or heavy-duty purlins without showing signs of fatigue.

Irwin Turbomax Cobalt: Fastest Starting

Time is money when fastening metal panels in high-wind zones where the fastener count is substantial. The Irwin Turbomax features a three-flatted shank and a self-centering tip that eliminates the need for a center punch.

The web design is thicker than a standard drill bit, which minimizes the vibration that often snaps smaller diameter bits. This makes them a reliable choice for drilling into high-tensile strength steel where bit deflection is a constant concern.

While they may lose their razor-sharp edge slightly faster than M42 grade bits under extreme heat, the cutting speed is unmatched. For a contractor looking to maximize output during a quick-turnaround project, these are the go-to choice.

Norseman M42 Cobalt Bits: Pro-Grade Choice

Norseman bits are the preferred choice for those who view tools as a long-term investment. Manufactured using M42 cobalt, these bits contain a higher percentage of molybdenum and cobalt, which grants them superior heat resistance compared to standard M35 cobalt bits.

This makes them the undisputed champion for working with hardened stainless steel or thick-gauge structural brackets. They operate with a level of precision that few mass-produced bits can replicate.

Expect these to hold an edge through the toughest conditions found on a job site. They are not the cheapest option, but they pay for themselves by reducing the frequency of trips to the supply house for replacements.

Drill America KFD-Series: Best Value Pick

Not every job requires industrial-grade, aerospace-spec tooling. The Drill America KFD-Series offers a solid entry point for contractors who need a reliable set that won’t break the bank while maintaining good performance.

These bits feature a straw finish that indicates they have undergone a heat-treatment process to improve toughness. While they might require a bit more pressure than premium cobalt bits when drilling into heavy steel, they perform perfectly fine for general tasks like mounting drip edges or securing trim.

For the serious DIYer or the contractor who needs a “beater” set for standard steel fasteners, these offer the best balance of cost and performance. Keep a set in the truck for those everyday tasks where using an expensive premium bit is simply overkill.

Bosch Cobalt M42 Bits: For Hardened Steel

Bosch Cobalt M42 bits are specifically designed for high-stress applications that would melt a standard HSS bit in seconds. If the task involves drilling into tempered steel or difficult alloys where work hardening is a risk, this is the tool to reach for.

Work hardening occurs when a bit rubs against the metal without cutting, causing the material to become harder and more resistant to future drilling. The geometry of the Bosch M42 ensures it bites deep immediately, preventing this phenomenon.

They exhibit exceptional stability even at higher heat levels. Keep these reserved for the difficult, high-stakes drilling operations where failure is not an option.

Cobalt vs. HSS vs. Titanium: Which Bit to Use

• HSS (High-Speed Steel): The basic standard for wood and soft plastics. They lose their temper rapidly in metal and are generally discouraged for anything other than light-duty aluminum or thin-gauge sheet metal.
• Titanium Coated: These are essentially HSS bits with a thin titanium-nitride coating to reduce friction. Once that thin coating wears off—which happens fast in metal—they become standard HSS bits.
• Cobalt: These are alloyed throughout the entire metal, not just coated. They remain hard even when they get hot, making them the only professional choice for drilling into steel or structural metal panels.

Speeds Feeds and Lube: Drilling Metal Right

The biggest mistake when drilling metal is running the drill at maximum RPM. High speed generates excessive heat, which destroys the bit’s temper regardless of the material.

Use lower speeds for harder metals and higher speeds for softer ones. Most importantly, use a dedicated metal-cutting fluid or at least a light oil to keep the bit cool and evacuate metal chips.

Without lubrication, the metal shavings become abrasive, effectively grinding down the bit’s cutting edge. A simple bottle of cutting oil in the tool bag will double the lifespan of any set of drill bits.

Split Point vs. Pilot Point: What’s the Diff?

• Split Point: The tip of the bit is ground to a 135-degree angle with a split cutting edge. This prevents the bit from walking across the surface of the metal, providing a precise starting point without the need for a center punch.
• Pilot Point: This refers to a stepped bit design that drills a small pilot hole simultaneously with the final hole diameter. These are excellent for thin-gauge metal where you need speed, but they can be more prone to binding if not handled with steady pressure.

How to Keep Your Expensive Drill Bits Sharp

The most common cause of dull bits is storing them loosely in a metal case where they bang against each other. Invest in a proper bit index or tray to keep them separated and protected from edge damage.

When a bit feels like it is pushing rather than cutting, stop immediately. Attempting to force a dull bit will ruin the cutting geometry, making professional sharpening difficult or impossible.

If the cutting edge is damaged, use a bench grinder or a dedicated drill sharpener to restore the 135-degree split point. Proper maintenance is significantly cheaper than constantly replacing high-quality cobalt sets.

Investing in high-quality cobalt drill bits is one of the smartest moves for anyone tasked with working on metal roofs, trim, or structural components. By understanding the metallurgy of the bits and respecting the mechanics of heat and speed, even the most challenging metal fabrication tasks become manageable. Stick to the right bit for the job, keep them cool with lubrication, and the results will speak for themselves on the final inspection.