Best Split Point Drill Bits for Metal, Wood, and DIY Projects
Split point drill bits help start holes with less bit walking, making them useful for accurate drilling in metal and other materials. The DEWALT 21-piece set is best for general-purpose work across several materials, while the M35 cobalt sets are better suited to heat-resistant metal drilling. The DEWALT 14-piece set covers common materials, and the serrated-edge set adds a side-cutting feature for shaping or enlarging openings. Compare the sets below by material, size range, and intended use.
| Product | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 21-Piece Set | General-purpose drilling | Black oxide coating and parabolic flutes |
| M35 Cobalt 13-Piece Set | Tough metals | Heat- and wear-resistant M35 steel |
| DEWALT 14-Piece Set | Mixed-material projects | 135-degree split point and tapered web |
| M35 Cobalt Set for Metal | Repeated metal drilling | 13-piece pack and split-point tips |
| Titanium-Coated Serrated Set | DIY hole shaping | Serrated side-cutting edges |
DEWALT 21-Piece Black Oxide Drill Bit Set
Best for: DIY users who need a general-purpose set for metal, hardwood, softwood, PVC, and fiberglass. This 21-piece DEWALT set combines high-speed steel bits with a 135-degree split point and a 31-degree helix.
The black oxide coating is described as helping resist corrosion and improve durability. Parabolic flutes are intended to increase chip ejection during drilling in metal and wood, which can help clear material from the hole.
Why it was selected: It offers broad material coverage and a larger piece count than the 14-piece DEWALT option. Limitation: The product information does not specify a cobalt construction, so choose a cobalt set instead when heat resistance for demanding metal work is a priority.
M35 Cobalt Split Point Drill Bit Set
Best for: Users drilling stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, and other demanding materials. The 13-piece set includes 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch bits made from M35 high-speed steel, which the listing describes as heat- and wear-resistant.
Its 135-degree split point is designed to help the bit start accurately with less walking. The flute geometry is intended to clear chips and reduce clogging and heat buildup. The set is also listed for wood and plastic, and it comes with a metal storage case.
Why it was selected: Its M35 construction and stated tough-metal applications distinguish it from general-purpose HSS sets. Limitation: This set has 13 pieces, so it may offer fewer size choices than a larger assortment.
DEWALT 14-Piece 135-Degree Split Point Set
Best for: Home users who need bits for plastic, wood, and metal. The set uses high-speed steel and a 135-degree split point designed to help reduce walking at the start of a hole.
A tapered web design is specified to support durability and resist breakage. The bits have three-flat shanks, a useful design detail to consider when comparing the set with round-shank options.
Why it was selected: It provides a straightforward mixed-material option from DEWALT, with a stated focus on reducing bit walking and resisting breakage. Limitation: The product information does not list the individual bit sizes, so check the listing details if a particular diameter is essential.
M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set for Metal
Best for: Workshops and maintenance tasks that call for cobalt bits and repeated drilling. The product name specifies a 13-piece M35 set in the 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch range. Its 135-degree split points are intended to reduce walking, and the listed materials include metal, wood, and plastic.
The feature description says M35 high-speed steel contains 5% cobalt and supports wear and heat resistance when used with suitable speed and lubrication. It also recommends a center punch for greater accuracy on flat metal surfaces.
Why it was selected: It offers a cobalt option with a stated size range and practical guidance for metal starts. Limitation: The name refers to an indexed case and 13 sizes, while the features describe 13 matching bits. Verify the assortment before buying.
Titanium-Coated Serrated Side-Cutting Set
Best for: DIY users who want to drill and then shape or enlarge openings. The listing describes six sizes from 3 to 8 mm, with high-speed steel construction, a titanium-coated surface, a round shank, and a 135-degree split point.
The serrated side edges are designed to continue cutting after drilling. Listed uses include wood, MDF, plywood, PVC, acrylic, aluminum, and thin metal sheets.
Why it was selected: Its side-cutting design adds a shaping function not specified for the other sets. Limitation: The listing emphasizes thin materials; choose a cobalt set for tough-metal drilling instead.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Split Point Drill Bits
Which materials will you drill?
For varied household projects, consider a high-speed steel set that lists the materials you use, such as wood, plastic, or metal. For stainless steel, cast iron, or other demanding metal work, an M35 cobalt set is the more targeted choice among these options. Match the bit to the material and follow appropriate drilling speed and lubrication guidance.
How important is reducing bit walking?
A split point is designed to help the bit start with less movement across the surface. The listed sets use 135-degree split points. For additional accuracy on flat metal, one product listing recommends using a center punch.
Do you need shaping features or a particular size?
Check the size range before choosing a set, especially when a project requires a precise hole diameter. The serrated-edge set is intended for shaping or enlarging openings after drilling, while the other sets are presented as conventional twist drill bits. Confirm the assortment when product descriptions differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a split point do on a drill bit?
A split point is designed to help the bit start in the intended location and reduce walking across the work surface.
Are split point drill bits suitable for metal?
Yes. The products here include general-purpose HSS and M35 cobalt options listed for metal. Select according to the metal and the product’s stated applications.
Should I choose cobalt or standard high-speed steel?
Choose M35 cobalt when heat and wear resistance for demanding metal drilling are priorities. Standard HSS options are listed for a broader mix of everyday materials.
Can these bits drill wood and plastic?
Several sets are listed for wood and plastic as well as metal. Check each product’s stated material range before use.
Do I still need a center punch?
A split point helps reduce walking, but the M35 set’s listing recommends a center punch for greater accuracy on flat metal surfaces.