If you want to make your drilling task complicated, try using a poorly designed drill bit. Here, everything will go wrong as you will spend a lot of money on the tool, waste time on the job, and end up with a poorly done task.
To avoid finding yourself in this situation, we advise that you invest in the best step drill bit. We understand that not everyone has an easy time finding the right tool. That is why we have come up with this article to make everything clearer and easier for you.
Let’s start with the individual product reviews.
Top 10 Rated Step Drill Bits: Comparison Guide
This section contains a sample of step drill bits that we consider to be the best in the market. Check out what we found out about them so that you can decide if there is any that can give you the best service.
Review of the BEST Step Drill Bits on the Market
1. Dewalt DWA1790IR Step Drill Bit Set
Finish: Titanium Nitride
Shank Type: Hex
Number Of Pieces: 3
Special Features:
– Titanium two flute spiral design
– Split point tip
– Laser engraved numbers
– 1/4-inch hex shank
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Next up is the offset design on each step that helps in maintaining their sharpness for longer. Additionally, the numbers on the steps are laser engraved to enhance their visibility.
We liked how the bits were optimized for impact driver usage, which is vital for precise drilling results.
Let’s also touch on the titanium two flute spiral design to remove chips and durability while you do not have to change the bits to drill multiple diameter holes.
- Versatile
- Split point tip for improved drilling speed
- Offset design for longer sharpness
- Bits easily lost in walls
2. Irwin 4-Piece Step Drill Bit Set
Finish: Titanium nitride
Shank Type: Round with Flats
Number Of Pieces: 4
Special Features:
– Single-flute cutting edges
– 3-flatted shanks
– Non-skid self-starting tips
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Another vital feature is the 3-flatted shanks that ensure there is no slipping in the drill chuck. Then, with the non-skid self-starting tips, you can be sure that there will be no skid while the need for center punching will no longer be there.
Lastly, the sizes are laser-etched on the bits for maximum visibility and to allow for precise drilling.
- Laser-etched sizes
- Fast and clean drilling
- Excellent customer service
- Too soft
3. Irwin Industrial Tools 10234CB 4 Best Unbit
Shank Type: Round
Number Of Pieces: 1
Special Features:
– Single-flute cutting edge
– SpeedPoint tip prevents “walking”
– Drills 12 different hole sizes
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This unbit has a single-flute cutting edge that drills precise round holes with clean finishes on different tough materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, wood, and fiberglass.
We cannot forget the SpeedPoint tip that prevents walking and ensures there is no need for a starting hole.
Finally, the sizes are laser-etched inside the flute for maximum visibility so that you can select the precise size for the task ahead of you.
- Well-built
- Laser-etched sizes
- Versatile
- Pricey
4. Milwaukee 4-Piece Step Drill Bit Set
Finish: Black Oxide
Shank Type: Straight
Number Of Pieces: 4
Special Features:
– Number of Hole Sizes 31
– Size Range 1/8 In. to 1-3/8 In
– 2 Shank Type
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The bits are made of HSS material and feature a black oxide coating to protect against rusting and corrosion.
This coating also gives the bits a nice and unique appearance that you will enjoy looking at every day.
We were pleased with how long the tools maintained their sharpness while they have laser-engraved reference marks so that you can make precise selections.
- Made in the USA
- Attractive look
- Black oxide coating
- Limited use
5. Milwaukee Shockwave Impact Duty Step Drill Set
Shank Type: Hex
Number Of Pieces: 3
Special Features:
– Dual spiral flute produce
– Optimized SHOCKZONE reduces early shank breaks
– Rapid strike tip provides fast and accurate starts
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The next feature is the Titanium Aluminum Nitride coating that enhances the bits’ durability, while the hex shank has an optimized Shockzone body to minimize early shank breaks.
Let’s also mention the dual spiral flute design, which, when coupled with the rapid strike tip, delivers cleaner and faster holes than competing brands.
To finish us off is the laser engraving that is designed to allow for easier size identification.
- Sturdy construction
- Easy size identification
- Fast and clean drilling
- Dull fast
6. Neiko 10173A 5-Piece Step Drill Bit Set
Finish: Titanium, Steel
Shank Type: Hex
Number Of Pieces: 5
Special Features:
– Two-Flute Spiral Grooved Design
– 5 step drill bits with 50 sizes total
– 135° Split Point Tip
– Quick Change Hex Shank
Secondly, the high-speed steel construction is vital for the powerful punching and the delivery of clean holes. On top of that, the bits feature a Titanium Nitride coating for the sake of their durability.
We cannot leave out the ¼-inch quick-change hex shank that is a perfect fit for most drill presses and pistol drills out there.
The last feature we shall mention is the two-flute spiral grooved design for removing particles such as dust and debris during drilling for faster and cleaner operation.
- Durable
- No walking
- Easy size identification
- Only for soft metals
7. CO-Z Step Drill Bit Set with Aluminum Case
Finish: Titanium
Shank Type: Triangle
Number Of Pieces: 5
Special Features:
– Different sized shanks
– Smooth Drilling with Non-walking drill tip
First, the bits in this set are guaranteed to serve you for a long time to come. We attribute this durability to the cobalt high-speed steel construction coupled with the titanium coating to keep the units looking good for years.
The other interesting aspect lies with the non-walking drill tip that helps deliver smooth and quick drills on different materials such as wood, plastic, and aluminum.
As for the different sized shanks, they will ensure that the bits are compatible with ¼, 3/8, and ½-inch chuck sizes.
Lastly, the bits come in a sturdy aluminum case for safe storage and organization.
- Built to last
- Sturdy storage case
- No metal scurf is thrown around
- Expensive
8. Neiko Titanium 3-Piece Step Drill Bit Set
Finish: Titanium
Shank Type: Tri-flatted, Straight
Number Of Pieces: 3
Special Features:
– Replaces 28 drill bits
– Two-flute design
– The split point tip is at 135 degrees
We were pleased with the HSS cobalt construction with a titanium coating, which guarantees sturdiness and durability.
In addition to that, the 135-degree split point tip is vital for enhanced cutting speed with self-centering, plus it also helps prevent walking.
Next up is the two-flute design for faster removal of particles for cleaner holes. On top of that, the tri-flatted shank fits securely into a wide range of power tools and ensures there is no slipping.
Lastly, the sizes are clearly engraved on the units so that you have an easy time picking out the dimensions that work for you.
- Better cutting speed
- Universal fit
- Engraved sizes
- Not for hardened metals
9. Comoware Step Drill Bit Set
Finish: Titanium
Shank Type: 3-Flat
Number Of Pieces: 1
Special Features:
– The split point tip is at 118 degrees
– One drill with 10 steps
– Double flutes design
Each bit is made out of High-Speed Steel with titanium coating for longevity and excellent sharpness. Further, this coating also helps in reducing friction and cool operation during use.
Let’s also talk about the two-flute design that allows for smoother cutting plus allows the particles to escape easily for a cleaner drilling operation. There is also the 118-degree split point tip that enhances the bits’ wear-resistance.
And for the sake of safety and stability during use, the 3-flat shank clamps securely on the piston drill to prevent shedding and slippage.
Lastly, these are versatile bits that you can use on different materials and put to different applications.
- Durable
- Attractive look
- Fast chip removal
- Dull easily
10. Neiko 10169 5-Piece Step Drill Bit Set
Finish: Aluminum, Titanium
Shank Type: 3-Flat
Number Of Pieces: 4 with Center Punch
Special Features:
– Two-flute design deburrs during drilling
– Includes Automatic center punch
– The split point tip is at 135 degrees
This makes the bit more efficient in its operations.
Next up is the two-flute design that allows the particles to escape easily. This is vital for a cleaner drilling operation.
How about the classic HSS build with titanium coating for durability and sturdiness to drill into different materials such as stainless steel, plastic, and aluminum.
We cannot leave out the tri-flatted shank that allows for secure fitting into power tool chucks, thereby eliminating slipping and accidents.
Lastly, the bits come in a sturdy blow molded case for safe storage and easy transportation when needed.
- Faster cutting speed
- Sturdy storage case
- Laser engraved sizes
- Bits arrive dull
Buying Guide for Step Drill Bits
After checking out the products, let us now look at the factors you should consider to search for the perfect step drill bit. This will help you narrow down your brands from the many options available.
Here are the factors.
1. Material
The material used in the bit’s construction is a vital aspect to think about since it determines how effective it will be at drilling through different surfaces such as metal, wood, and plastic.
Common materials used in making steps include High-speed Steel (HSS), Carbide, and Cobalt.
HSS drills through both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, while Carbide can only be used for non-ferrous metals. On the other hand, Cobalt is effective for drilling through ferrous metals and is a poor performer on non-ferrous metals.
2. Protective Coating
Next up is the protective coating, which is meant to ensure that the drill does not heat up, which would eventually lead to it breaking apart. Further, due to reduced friction, the drill speed is likely to increase by a significant margin.
The most common coatings used for step bits are titanium and black oxide.
3. The Shank Design
In case you don’t know, the shank is the end of the bit you plug into the drill. Ideally, the bit’s shank size ought to match the drill’s chuck size for maximum efficiency.
Shanks may have an either hex or no-spin design. The former features six sides that keep the bit steady during drilling into hard metals, and they closely resemble some screwdriver bits.
The latter is characterized by a fluted shank that prevents the bit from slipping during the drilling operation.
So, take your time and analyze the shank design that would bring the best out of the step drill bit.
4. Size Engraving
When the sizes are visibly engraved on the bits, you will easily pick out the perfect size for the job. In the end, you will end up drilling holes with the preciseness that you had hoped for.
5. Storage
If you do not want a hard time putting the bits away after use, consider going for a set that comes in a case for convenient storage. Additionally, this case will also come in handy when you need to transport the tools from one location to another.
FAQs
As we approach the end, we shall go through some common queries about step drill bits as posed by consumers. We hope that you will pick something new from this section.
Q: Should I clean my bits after use?
A: We suggest that you do so in order to keep the tools looking good and prevent the accumulation of foreign elements on them. After every session, use a soft cloth to wipe away any residue on the bit. After that, apply some cutting fluid on it before proceeding to store it.
Q: What should I do when by step drill bits dull?
A: When your bits lose their sharpness, they will not be as effective in drilling holes as they were before. So, the best thing you should do is to sharpen them by use of a bench grinder. This way, the bits will be useful to you for longer.
Q: What steps should I take if the drill bit breaks up inside the surface I am drilling?
A: Assuming that the material you are drilling into is metal, removing the broken bit should be relatively straightforward. Start by adding a few drops of lubricating oil to the bit before using a pair of pliers to hold the shank’s broken end.
From here, you should twist the bit counterclockwise to remove it completely.
Our Top Pick
From our analysis, we have concluded that the Dewalt DWA1790IR Step Drill Bit Set is the best product overall. It is a 3-piece set with bits that have split tips for faster drilling, and they have a two-flute spiral design for smother and cleaner drilling.
Most of all, the bits are versatile, and you can use them for various applications and work with different materials.
Closing Remark
If you have taken your time to read every detail we have provided in this piece, we believe you are better placed to make the right choice when it comes to finding the best step drill bit. And if you get the best item, your drilling experience will surely turn for the better.