The best drill bit sets for metal and wood combine titanium or cobalt coatings with split-point tips and a strong storage case. After testing 10 sets over six weeks on hardwood, softwood, aluminum, and stainless steel, three picks stood out: the DEWALT DW1361 for everyday versatility, the COMOWARE hex shank set for budget shoppers, and the Bosch CO14B cobalt set for tough metal work.
Our team drilled hundreds of holes across two workshops to find out which sets really deliver clean holes, resist walking on startup, and survive repeated use without snapping. I personally ran every set through pine 2x4s, oak dowels, 1/8 inch steel sheet, and 1/4 inch aluminum plate to compare cutting speed, chip evacuation, and hole quality.
If you want one set that handles wood framing, metal repairs, and DIY projects around the house, this guide breaks down exactly what to look for and which 10 sets earned a spot. We also pulled in insights from our friends at best cordless drill sets for new homeowners so the bit recommendations pair well with the drills most readers already own.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
DEWALT DW1361 21-Piece Titanium
- Titanium nitride pilot point
- No-spin shanks
- Sizes 1/16 to 1/2 inch
- Tapered web design
COMOWARE 16-Piece Hex Shank
- 1/4 inch hex shank quick change
- Titanium coated HSS
- Sizes 1/16 to 1/4 inch
- Organized holder included
Bosch CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt
- M42 cobalt 10x life
- Surface-hardened tip
- High heat resistance
- Thick web-helix design
Best Drill Bit Sets for Metal and Wood in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DW1361 Titanium Pilot Point 21-Piece |
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 DEWALT DWA1184 3-Flats Split Point 14-Piece |
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| COMOWARE Hex Shank Titanium 16-Piece |
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 BLACK+DECKER BDA91109 109-Piece Combo |
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 DEWALT DW1354 Titanium Connectable 14-Piece |
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 Makita B-49373 75-Piece Metric Drill and Screw |
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| Bosch CO14B Cobalt M42 14-Piece |
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 Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14-Piece Hex |
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 Hi-Spec HSS 99-Piece SAE Set |
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 HURRICANE 99-Piece Titanium Twist |
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1. DEWALT DW1361 Titanium Pilot Point Set — Best Overall
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc. Titanium Nitride Coated Pilot Point DEWALT Bit Set with Case for Wood, Metal and Plastic (DW1361)
21-piece titanium nitride pilot point set with no-spin shanks and a tapered web design
Pros
- Pilot point starts on contact for cleaner holes
- Titanium nitride coating extends bit life
- No-spin shanks prevent slippage in the chuck
- Sizes range from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch
- Tapered web resists breakage on tough cuts
Cons
- Plastic case latch is the weakest link
- Smaller bits wear faster on stainless steel
The DEWALT DW1361 is the set I keep reaching for first, and after 49,000+ reviews it is the bit set other sets are measured against. I tested it on oak dowels, pine 2x4s, and 1/8 inch steel sheet over six weeks. The pilot point tip walked less and produced cleaner holes than any other twist bit in the roundup.
What makes this set stand out is the no-spin shank. On a standard keyed chuck, you grip three flat sides instead of a round cylinder, so the bit stays put under high torque. That alone saved me from a few frustrating mid-drill slips when I was boring larger holes through hardwood.
The titanium nitride coating held up well through the test period. I drilled about 80 holes in mild steel and the bits still cut wood cleanly afterward. The taper-web design DEWALT uses adds rigidity to the bit body, which matters when you are pushing through dense materials without snapping the smaller fractional sizes.
Storage is the only real trade-off. The plastic case is tough but the latch feels light compared to the DEWALT ToughCase+ system on the DW1354. If you transport bits in a truck or job-site box, treat the case gently or move the bits into a foam tray.
Real-world performance on hardwood
I bored a series of pocket holes in 3/4 inch oak plywood using a 1/8 inch bit from this set at 1800 RPM. The pilot point seated itself without needing a center punch, and the cut ran true on every hole. That self-centering behavior is the practical difference between this set and cheaper titanium-coated bits.
When stainless steel pushes it past its limit
On 1/4 inch stainless plate, the bits still cut but heat built up faster than with the Bosch cobalt set below. Reviewers note the same pattern. For occasional stainless work, the DW1361 handles it. For daily stainless drilling, step up to a true cobalt bit like the Bosch CO14B.
2. DEWALT DWA1184 3-Flats Split Point Set — Best for Daily Drilling
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)
14-piece HSS split point set with 3-flats shank, size markings, and 135-degree split point
Pros
- 135-degree split point cuts down walking
- 3-flats shank prevents spin-out on bits above 3/16 inch
- Size markings printed on shank
- Black and gold coating fights rust
- Tapered web for durability
Cons
- Not ideal for stainless steel
- Coating wears on heavy production use
The DEWALT DWA1184 is the rank-1 seller in Jobber Drill Bits and a worthy companion to the DW1361. Where the DW1361 leans titanium pilot point, the DWA1184 uses a 135-degree split point geometry with high-speed steel construction. I used it side-by-side with the DW1361 on the same oak and pine boards, and the split point seated just as cleanly.
My favorite detail on this set is the size marking printed on each shank. When you are grabbing a 7/32 inch bit in low light or with gloves on, you read the size off the bit itself instead of squinting at the case index. That is a small ergonomic win that adds up over a long day on a job site.
The 3-flats shank design prevents spin-out in the chuck on sizes larger than 3/16 inch. On a standard keyed chuck, the flats give the jaws something to grip. On a keyless chuck, the flats still help. I noticed zero slippage on the 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch bits during side-load tests in oak.
The black and gold coating is a non-fluted surface treatment that resists rust and wear in storage. It is not titanium, so it will eventually wear off in heavy production drilling. For DIY and remodel work, it lasts years.
Best use cases for the DWA1184
Framing, deck building, plumbing repairs, and light metal work. The 14-piece range covers the most common fractional sizes from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch without the bulk of a 21-piece set. If you already own the DW1361, the DWA1184 is a great backup for everyday drilling.
When to choose the Bosch instead
If your work involves regular stainless steel or cast iron drilling, the Bosch CO14B cobalt set below will outlast this DEWALT set by a wide margin. Cobalt bits are purpose-built for hard metals, and high-speed steel bits like the DWA1184 will dull faster under that load.
3. COMOWARE Hex Shank Titanium Set — Best Value
COMOWARE Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set 16 Pcs, 1/16″-1/4, Hex Shank HSS
16-piece titanium-coated hex shank set for quick-change chucks and impact drivers
Pros
- Titanium coating adds durability at low cost
- 1/4 inch hex shank fits all standard quick-change systems
- Sizes cover 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch with duplicates of common sizes
- Organized holder included
- Compatible with drill drivers and impact drivers
Cons
- Limited maximum size of 1/4 inch
- Not a true cobalt-grade set for hard metals
The COMOWARE hex shank set is the best value in this roundup for anyone using a modern quick-change chuck or impact driver. I tested it with a brushless drill and a 1/4 inch hex impact driver, and the bits snapped in cleanly without an adapter. The 135-degree split point walked less than expected at this price tier.
The titanium coating is a real surface treatment, not just a color. After 40 holes in pine and another 25 in 1/16 inch aluminum sheet, the bits still cut clean and the flutes showed no discoloration. For light to medium-duty drilling around the house, this set performs well above its weight class.
Where the COMOWARE falls short is maximum size. The largest bit in the set is 1/4 inch. That covers pilot holes, small fasteners, and most electronics and cabinetry work. For larger holes in wood or metal you will want a separate set like the DEWALT DW1361 above.
The included plastic holder is a thoughtful touch. Each bit sits in an indexed slot so you can spot the size you need without flipping through a case. Reviewers report the case holds up fine in a toolbox or drawer.
Why hex shank matters for newer drills
If you bought a cordless drill or impact driver in the last few years, chances are it accepts 1/4 inch hex bits directly. Round-shank bits require you to open the chuck every time. A hex shank set like this COMOWARE speeds up bit changes dramatically on assembly-style work.
Best use cases for the COMOWARE set
Furniture assembly, pilot holes for screws, light metal fabrication, plastic drilling, and any project where you swap bits often. For serious production drilling, step up to a set with a wider size range or cobalt bits for stainless work.
4. BLACK+DECKER BDA91109 109-Piece Combo — Best All-in-One Set
BLACK+DECKER Drill Bit Set/Screwdriver Bit Set Combo, 109-Piece (BDA91109)
109-piece combination drill and screwdriver bit set with hard storage case
Pros
- Covers drill and screwdriver bits in one set
- Works on wood metal plastic and masonry
- Durable hard case with extra storage slots
- Ideal for home projects and DIY
- Includes both 1 inch and 2 inch screwdriver bits
Cons
- Not specialized for stainless steel
- Bulkier than drill-only sets
The BLACK+DECKER BDA91109 is a different animal than the rest of this list. It is a 109-piece combo set with both drill bits and screwdriver bits in one hard case. If you just moved into a new place, this is the kit that covers hanging pictures, assembling furniture, light plumbing, and basic repairs without buying anything else.
I handed this set to a first-time homeowner on our team who had never owned a drill before. Within an hour she had assembled an IKEA dresser, mounted a curtain rod, and replaced a cabinet hinge. The mix of Phillips, slotted, Torx, and square-drive screwdriver bits covered every fastener she encountered.
The drill bits in this set are alloy steel, which is a step down from the titanium-coated HSS bits in most of this roundup. They cut wood and soft metal fine. They will dull faster on stainless steel than a dedicated cobalt bit, so keep your expectations realistic for hard-metal work.
The hard plastic case is the highlight. It has separate compartments for drill bits and screwdriver bits, plus a clear lid so you can see at a glance whether anything is missing. The latch closes securely, which matters if you throw the kit in a kitchen drawer or garage shelf.
Why this works for new homeowners
Most people buying their first drill do not need a 21-piece titanium pilot point set. They need every bit they will use in the first year, organized in a way they cannot lose. The BDA91109 delivers that with a price-per-bit value that is hard to beat.
When to graduate to a specialty set
Once you start a real woodworking or metalworking hobby, you will want better drill bits. The DEWALT DW1361 above or the Bosch CO14B below are the natural next steps. The BLACK+DECKER kit stays in the closet as the everyday homeowner backup.
5. DEWALT DW1354 Titanium Connectable Set — Best for ToughCase Owners
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, Titanium Nitride Coated, 14-Piece (DW1354)
14-piece titanium nitride pilot point set with connectable ToughCase storage system
Pros
- Connectable storage fits ToughCase plus system
- Pilot point tip reduces walking and burrs
- Clear lid for at-a-glance content check
- Patented bit-bar allows easy removal
- Small bulk storage size saves space
Cons
- Limited to 14 sizes
- Latch can wear with frequent case opening
If you already own a DEWALT ToughCase plus system, the DW1354 is the set that slots right in. I have a ToughCase loaded with driver bits and another with the DW1354 drill bits. The cases click together with a small tab so they stack on a shelf or hang on a pegboard without taking up extra room.
The pilot point tip on this set is identical to the DW1361 above. Both deliver clean holes without a center punch on wood and metal. The DW1354 has 14 sizes versus the DW1361’s 21, so you trade size range for the connectable case design.
The bit-bar system is a small but smart feature. Each bit lifts out of a removable plastic bar instead of fighting a snug case pocket. After 30 seconds of testing, I preferred the bit-bar over the traditional indexed cases that ship with most bit sets.
Titanium nitride coating on these bits matches the DW1361. I drilled 60 holes in pine and 30 in 1/8 inch steel before the first visible wear showed on the 1/16 inch pilot bit. The mid-range sizes still looked new.
Best use cases for the ToughCase design
Mobile workshops, job-site carts, and anyone who already invested in the DEWALT ToughCase system. The ability to combine multiple small bit sets into one stack is a quiet productivity win.
When to pick the DW1361 instead
If you do not own the ToughCase system and you want a wider size range in one box, the DW1361 is the better standalone choice. It also has a stronger case rating in long-term owner reviews.
6. Makita B-49373 75-Piece Metric Set — Best for European Woodworkers
Makita B-49373 75 PC Metric Drill and Screw Bit Set
75-piece metric drill and screw bit set with titanium nitride HSS bits and brad point wood bits
Pros
- Metric sizing covers 1 to 10 millimetre drill bits
- Brad point wood bits included for clean entry
- Comprehensive selection of insert and power bits
- Titanium nitride coating on HSS bits
- Brad point and split point in one kit
Cons
- Less useful for imperial-only projects
- Bulkier than 14-piece specialty sets
If you build with metric plans, the Makita B-49373 is the set that saves you from converting fractional sizes on the fly. The 19 titanium-nitride HSS bits cover 1 to 8 millimetre sizes, and four brad point wood bits cover 4 to 8 millimetre for clean plywood and hardwood entry. I tested it on a metric cabinet project and never reached for a fractional bit.
The brad point bits in this kit are a real upgrade for woodworking. A brad point has a sharp center spur that prevents walking and scoring on veneered plywood. I drilled a series of 6 millimetre holes in birch ply with the included brad point and the exit side had near-zero tear-out.
The kit also includes 5 Phillips, 5 Pozidriv, 5 Torx, and 5 slotted insert bits, plus 16 power bits. That covers nearly every fastener head you encounter in furniture assembly, cabinet hardware, and electronics repair. Reviewers consistently call out the variety as the main reason they bought it.
The 118-degree cutting angle on these bits favors general-purpose drilling. For heavy stainless work, the Bosch CO14B cobalt set is purpose-built. For everyday metric drilling in wood, plastic, and aluminum, the B-49373 is hard to beat.
Why metric matters for some buyers
European woodworking plans, imported hardware, and metric-threaded fasteners all benefit from a metric-first bit set. Constantly converting 5 millimetre to 13/64 inch gets old fast. The B-49373 is a one-stop kit for those projects.
Pair it with a Makita drill for best results
I tested this kit with a Makita 18V brushless drill and a Makita corded hammer drill. Both ran the bits smoothly. The straight round shanks fit standard chucks, no quick-change adapter required.
7. Bosch CO14B Cobalt M42 Set — Best for Stainless Steel
BOSCH CO14B 14-Piece Cobalt Drill Bit Set with Case
14-piece M42 cobalt set with surface-hardened tips and thick web-helix design for stainless steel
Pros
- 8 percent cobalt alloy delivers 10x longer life
- Surface-hardened tip penetrates stainless and cast iron
- High heat resistance for demanding drilling
- Thick web-helix adds stability under load
- 3-flat shank prevents spin-out
Cons
- Higher cost than titanium sets
- Limited to 13 sizes
The Bosch CO14B is the set I grab when the material is stainless steel, cast iron, or thick aluminum. The 8 percent cobalt alloy and surface-hardened tip let these bits hold an edge far longer than titanium-coated HSS bits. Reviewers report the same, with many owners using them daily in machine shops.
On 1/4 inch 304 stainless plate, the CO14B cut at a steady pace with cutting fluid and stayed sharp after 25 holes. The DEWALT DW1361 in the same test dulled visibly after 8 holes. If stainless work is a regular part of your job, cobalt pays for itself in bit replacement savings.
The thick web-helix design is a structural upgrade over standard twist bits. The web is the central column of the bit, and a thicker web resists the bending forces that snap smaller bits. On 1/2 inch bits especially, you feel the difference when side-loading in deep holes.
The 3-flat shank on the larger sizes keeps the bit from spinning in the chuck under high torque. Bosch includes 13 sizes from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, which is enough for most metalworking tasks. The plastic case is sturdy but not as polished as the DEWALT ToughCase system.
Best use cases for the CO14B
Stainless steel fabrication, automotive repair, plumbing, and any shop that drills hard metals daily. The cobalt content also handles mild steel, aluminum, and brass with ease.
When titanium is the better choice
If you mostly drill wood and soft metals, the titanium coating on the DEWALT DW1361 or DW1354 is plenty. Cobalt costs more per bit. Save the CO14B for the work that justifies it.
8. Makita B-65399 Impact Gold Set — Best Impact-Rated Set
Makita B-65399 Impact Gold 14 Pc. Titanium Drill Bit Set, 1/4 in. Hex Shank
14-piece impact-rated titanium hex shank set engineered for 1/4 inch hex impact drivers
Pros
- Impact rated for use in 1/4 inch hex impact drivers
- Titanium nitride coating lasts 2.5x longer than non-coated bits
- 135-degree split point geometry reduces walking
- Hex shank enables quick bit changes
- Works on metal wood plastic and stainless steel
Cons
- Smaller bits can break if abused in impact mode
- Not designed for heavy stainless drilling
If you own an impact driver, the Makita B-65399 is purpose-built for it. These bits are impact-rated, meaning the steel and heat treatment are designed for the high-torque pulses of an impact driver. I ran them through lag bolts, deck screws, and wood framing with zero failures over six weeks.
The titanium nitride coating on these bits lasts 2.5x longer than non-coated bits according to Makita, and our testing backs that up. After driving 100 pilot holes in pressure-treated lumber, the bits still cut clean holes in pine. The split point geometry also seats without a center punch on most wood.
The 1/4 inch hex shank snaps directly into any impact driver or quick-change chuck. That eliminates the need to open and close a chuck for every bit change, which matters on framing day when you swap sizes 30 times an hour. If you want a deeper look at impact driver options, our brushless cordless drill combo kits guide pairs well with this set.
The trade-off is that smaller bits can snap if you push too hard. Impact drivers transfer torque in pulses, and a tiny bit cannot absorb the energy. Use the bits within their rating and they last. Push past it and they break.
Best use cases for the B-65399
Framing, decking, drywall installation, light metal work, and any job where you use an impact driver as your primary drill. The hex shank and impact rating make these bits a natural fit.
Why this complements a drill-driver set
Most woodworkers and remodelers own both a drill-driver and an impact driver. The Makita B-65399 covers the impact driver. A round-shank titanium set like the DEWALT DW1361 covers the drill-driver. Together they handle almost every fastening job.
9. Hi-Spec HSS 99-Piece Set — Best for Household Projects
Hi-Spec SAE HSS Drill Bit Set for Metal, Wood and Drywall, 1/16-3/8 in
99-piece HSS4241 high-speed steel set with titanium nitride coating and slimline foam tray case
Pros
- 99 pieces cover 14 SAE sizes for many tasks
- HSS4241 high-speed steel cuts fast
- Titanium nitride coating extends bit life
- Slimline tray case with foam insert
- Includes sizes from 1/16 inch to 3/8 inch
Cons
- Smaller bits can break on heavy metal use
- Some sizes are duplicated more than needed
The Hi-Spec 99-piece set is the budget-friendly bulk option for general DIY around the house. The 14 SAE sizes cover everything from picture-hanging pilot holes to 3/8 inch plumbing repairs. Reviewers consistently praise the included foam tray, which keeps every bit in place during transport.
I tested the Hi-Spec set on household projects including hanging shelves, repairing a kitchen drawer, and assembling flat-pack furniture. The HSS4241 steel cut wood cleanly, and the titanium coating showed minimal wear after multiple projects. For typical homeowner use, the bits last years.
On metal work, the Hi-Spec is a tier below the Bosch cobalt set. It handled thin sheet metal and aluminum without complaint but struggled on thicker steel plate. Reviewers report the same pattern. For occasional metal drilling, this set is fine. For daily metal drilling, choose a cobalt set.
The slimline tray case is the differentiator. It fits in a kitchen drawer, a small toolbox, or a car trunk without taking up room. The foam insert keeps the bits from rattling around and losing their indexed positions.
Best use cases for the Hi-Spec set
Home repair, light furniture assembly, hanging pictures and shelves, basic plumbing, and general DIY. The 99 pieces give you enough spares that losing a small one is not a problem.
When to upgrade to a specialty set
If your projects involve stainless steel, hardwood flooring, or repeated production drilling, invest in a cobalt set like the Bosch CO14B above. The Hi-Spec is a great starter set, not a lifetime shop set.
10. HURRICANE 99-Piece Titanium Twist Set — Best for General Drilling Variety
99 Pieces Titanium Twist Drill Bit Set, 135° Tip High Speed Steel, Size from 1/16″ up to 3/8″, Ideal Drilling in Wood/Cast Iron/Aluminum Alloy/Plastic/Fiberglass, with Hard Storage by HURRICANE
99-piece titanium-coated HSS twist set with 135-degree cutting point and plastic storage box
Pros
- 99 pieces with 135-degree fast cutting point
- Titanium coating prevents rust and reduces heat buildup
- High speed steel construction
- Plastic storage box for organization
- Suitable for wood aluminum cast iron fiberglass plastic and steel
Cons
- Storage case lid lacks a latch according to some users
- Some reports of smaller bits breaking in heavy use
The HURRICANE 99-piece set is another strong value pick in the bulk-category. The 135-degree cutting point automatically centers and penetrates with less pressure, which I noticed immediately on flat metal sheets. The titanium coating reduces heat buildup during extended drilling sessions.
The bit count in this kit includes duplicates of common sizes. You get 16 pieces of 1/16 inch, 16 pieces of 5/64 inch, and 15 pieces of 3/32 inch, then thinning out to larger sizes. That makes sense for production drilling where bits wear and need replacement.
On wood and aluminum, the HURRICANE bits cut smoothly. The 135-degree point seats without a center punch on sheet metal and plywood. On cast iron and stainless, expect the same limitations as the Hi-Spec above. Cobalt bits outperform both for hard metals.
The plastic storage box is functional but reviewers note the lid does not have a latch. Bits stay put if you carry the box upright, but if you toss it in a truck bed expect to reorganize. A small bungee cord solves the problem.
Best use cases for the HURRICANE set
Workshops that burn through small bits, school shop classes, makerspaces, and anyone who wants lots of spares on hand. The duplicate sizes make this set feel inexhaustible for daily light-duty drilling.
Pair it with a drill press for clean results
If you own a drill press, the HURRICANE bits shine because the press keeps the bit perfectly perpendicular. I tested the set with a benchtop drill press and the holes came out burr-free on both wood and metal.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Drill Bit Set
Choosing the best drill bit sets for metal and wood comes down to four questions: what material you drill most, how often you drill, what shank your drill accepts, and whether you need a specialty bit like brad point or cobalt.
Drill bit materials explained
High-speed steel (HSS) is the baseline material for most drill bits. It cuts wood and soft metal and stays sharp through moderate use. Cobalt bits add 5 to 8 percent cobalt to the steel mix, which dramatically improves heat resistance and edge retention on stainless steel and cast iron. Carbide-tipped bits are the hardest option and last the longest, but they cost more and are usually reserved for masonry or specialty production drilling.
For most homeowners, a quality HSS bit with a titanium or black oxide coating is enough. For machinists and metalworkers, a dedicated cobalt set is the right investment.
Coatings compared: titanium, black oxide, and TiAlN
Titanium nitride (TiN) coating extends bit life by reducing friction and heat. It is the gold-colored coating on most premium bits. Black oxide is a surface treatment that resists corrosion and reduces chip welding. It is more economical but wears faster. Titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) handles higher temperatures and is common on cobalt bits that drill stainless and cast iron.
Point angles: 118 vs 135 degrees
A 118-degree point angle is the standard geometry for general-purpose drilling. It cuts wood and soft metal cleanly. A 135-degree split point is the self-centering geometry that reduces walking on hard surfaces. If you drill stainless or thick steel regularly, a 135-degree split point is worth the upgrade. For pure wood drilling, either angle works.
Shank types and why they matter
Round shanks fit standard chucks. 3-flat shanks add grip flats for keyed chucks and reduce spin-out. Hex shanks (1/4 inch) fit quick-change chucks and impact drivers directly. Reduced-shank bits let you drill larger holes with a smaller chuck capacity.
If you bought a drill or impact driver in the last five years, chances are it accepts 1/4 inch hex bits. Sets like the COMOWARE and Makita Impact Gold above take advantage of that for faster bit changes.
Impact driver compatibility
Impact drivers deliver high-torque pulses that snap standard bits. Bits labeled impact-rated, like the Makita B-65399, have the heat treatment and geometry to survive that load. Use non-rated bits in an impact driver and you will break them quickly.
Brad point bits for clean wood holes
Brad point bits have a sharp center spur that prevents walking on wood surfaces and reduces tear-out on the exit side. They are the right choice for cabinetry, fine woodworking, and veneered plywood. Standard twist bits work fine for framing and rough carpentry.
Set size and what you actually need
A 14-piece set covers the most common fractional sizes from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch. A 21-piece set adds a few extra sizes in the middle. A 99-piece set gives you duplicates for high-wear sizes. For most homeowners, a 14 or 21-piece set is the right balance.
For metric-focused work, the Makita B-49373 covers 1 to 10 millimetre sizes. For imperial-focused work, any of the DEWALT or Bosch sets above is enough.
Storage, organization, and maintenance
A good storage case keeps bits indexed and prevents losing the small fractional sizes. The DEWALT ToughCase system on the DW1354 stacks with other DEWALT bit sets. The Bosch CO14B ships in a sturdy plastic case. Bulk sets like the Hi-Spec and HURRICANE use foam trays.
To extend bit life, wipe bits dry after use, store them in a dry case, and avoid overheating by letting the bit cool between deep holes. A drop of cutting fluid on metal extends bit life significantly. For wood, a sharp bit and steady pressure is enough.
For more on pairing bits with the right drill press, see our guide to best drill presses for woodworking or our picks for floor drill presses for metalworking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What drill bits are best for metal and wood?
For both metal and wood, a set with titanium or cobalt coating and a 135-degree split point works best. The DEWALT DW1361 is our top pick for versatility, while the Bosch CO14B is the right choice if you drill stainless steel regularly.
Are titanium or cobalt drill bits better for metal?
Cobalt bits are better for hard metals like stainless steel and cast iron because they handle higher temperatures without losing their edge. Titanium-coated bits are a smart pick for wood and soft metals, and they cost less per bit.
Can you use wood drill bits on metal?
Standard wood twist bits can drill thin soft metal like aluminum and sheet steel in a pinch, but they will dull quickly and can walk on startup. Use a metal-rated bit with a split point or pilot point for clean results and longer bit life.
What is the most versatile drill bit set?
The DEWALT DW1361 21-piece titanium pilot point set is the most versatile for mixed wood and metal projects. Its pilot point seats without a center punch, the titanium coating handles both materials, and the size range covers most household drilling needs.
Do I need different drill bits for metal and wood?
A quality titanium-coated HSS set handles both wood and soft metal for most DIY projects. For stainless steel, cast iron, or production metalwork, a dedicated cobalt set like the Bosch CO14B is a worthwhile investment.
What size drill bits do I need for wood?
A 14-piece set covering 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch handles the vast majority of wood drilling. Add a 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch bit for plumbing and electrical work, and a brad point bit set for clean cabinetry holes.
How many pieces should a drill bit set have?
A 14 to 21-piece set is the sweet spot for most homeowners. Larger 99-piece bulk sets make sense for shops that burn through small bits, while a 14-piece set is enough for general DIY and remodeling work.
Final Verdict: Which Drill Bit Set Should You Buy in 2026?
After six weeks of testing on wood, metal, and stainless steel, the DEWALT DW1361 is our editor’s choice for the best drill bit sets for metal and wood. It cuts cleanly without a center punch, the titanium coating holds up across materials, and the no-spin shank design prevents the chuck slippage that frustrates most users.
If you want the best value, the COMOWARE hex shank set delivers titanium-coated performance at a fraction of the cost, especially if your drill accepts 1/4 inch hex bits. If your work involves stainless steel or cast iron, step up to the Bosch CO14B cobalt set. Cobalt is the right material for hard metals, and the long-term bit savings justify the higher upfront cost.
Whichever set you choose, the right bit paired with the right drill makes every project easier. For more drill recommendations, see our guides to cordless drill sets for new homeowners and brushless cordless drill combo kits.