Best Step Drill Bits in 2027

This set leads our ranking, but it is not a step drill bit set. Step bits cut several hole sizes with one tool. These are standard twist bits. The set holds 115 pieces: 29 fractional sizes from 1/16” to 1/2” in 1/64th increments, 26 letter sizes, and 60 numbered sizes.

The material is cobalt, listed as M35 with 5% cobalt. Cobalt resists heat, which matters when you drill stainless steel. The tip angle is 135° with a split point. A split point helps the bit start without skating across the surface. The listing says the point is self-centering to prevent walk-off.

A holder with size markings keeps the bits sorted. The maker does not publish a weight or a warranty. For thin sheet metal, a twist bit can grab on the exit side, so deburr the hole or back the panel with scrap wood.

The DEWALT DWA1240 is a 14-piece cobalt set with a pilot point. It is a twist bit set, not a step drill bit, so it will not make stepped holes in one pass. It ranks second on our spec sheet. Cobalt handles heat better than plain steel, which helps on thicker or tougher metal.

Storage is the focus here. The listing describes a bit-bar design that lets you remove bits easily and place them where you like. The lid is clear, so you can see the contents, and a clip latch closes it. The case connects to other accessory storage and fits in the Small and Medium ToughCase+, which is sold separately.

Weight is 1.02 lb. The listing does not give a tip angle or the size range, so check the sizes before you buy. A pilot point is a split-point style tip meant to start in place. For thin panels, clamp the work and drill slowly.

The CRAFTSMAN CMAM2214 has 14 pieces and ranks third. It is a standard bit set, not a step drill bit, so it drills one size per bit. That is a small count if you want a wide size range. The listing names wood, metal or plastic, which matches thin panel and plastic work. The listing does not state the size range.

The coating is gold oxide, which the listing says resists corrosion and promotes longer life. The tip is a split point. The maker says this gives precise hole placement and clean, burr-free holes. For sheet metal, a clean exit matters because burrs catch on edges and fingers. Burr-free edges also mean less filing afterward on thin panels.

It comes in a carrying case, described as both metal and plastic in the listing. Weight is 1 lb. Material and tip angle are not published, so you cannot confirm the steel grade or point angle here. Treat it as a general-purpose set.

The STROTON set ranks fourth. The listing mentions a three steps design, but the included sizes run from 1mm to 10mm in 0.5mm increments, so it reads as a set of regular bits, not one step bit. Check this before you buy if you want a true step bit.

Material is M42 cobalt, which the listing gives as 8% cobalt at 68-70 HRC. That is more cobalt than the 5% listed on the SEDIANAS set. The 19 pieces use a 135 degree split point. That tip angle is meant to start without walking on smooth metal, plastic and aluminum.

Weight is 1 lb. No storage case is listed, so plan to keep the bits in a pouch or box. Lengths grow with size, from 3.4cm for the 1mm bit to 13cm for the 10mm bit. The set tops out at 10mm, so large holes need another tool.

The CaRoller HSD912 ranks fifth. It is a 29-piece M35 cobalt set of standard bits, not step drill bits. The sizes run from 1/16” to 1/2” in 1/64” steps, and the amber coating adds wear resistance. That covers common hole sizes for metal and hard plastics, one bit at a time.

The tip is a 135 degree split point on a round straight shank. The listing calls it self-centering, which helps prevent walking as the bit starts. A fully ground twist is said to cut friction and heat. Walking is a common problem on thin sheet metal, so this tip suits that job.

The set ships in a round, cup-type carrying case with a built-in clip that attaches to a tool belt. That is handy for jobs away from the bench. Weight is not published. Because the bits are straight-shank twist bits, expect a hole of one size per bit, so stepped holes need several passes.