We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Step Drill Bits 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS Spiral Grooved HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal with Aluminum Case

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,360
Material
Size Range
Shank Type

Most important from
1429 reviews

Material
The drill bits deliver precise and easy material removal, making hole widening tasks smooth and controlled.
Size Range
The assortment of sizes combined with the sturdy storage box adds great convenience for current and future projects.
Shank Type
Designed to fit standard drills, the bits maintain control and avoid slipping during use.

The IRONANT Step Drill Bit Set offers a solid choice for those needing versatile drill bits for light to medium metalwork and DIY projects. Made from high-speed steel (HSS) with a titanium coating, these bits promise good sharpness and durability, which helps them stay sharper longer than regular bits. The set includes 5 pieces with a total of 50 size steps, making it flexible enough to handle a wide range of hole sizes without needing multiple individual bits.

The straight shank design fits most standard drills, and the 118° split point tip combined with a spiral dual-flute design helps speed up drilling while preventing the bit from slipping or wandering off target. It also clears metal chips efficiently, which keeps the drilling smooth. The bits work well on materials like plastic, aluminum, and softer metals, but they are not suitable for tougher metals such as stainless steel, which limits their use if you often work with harder materials.

The included aluminum case is a nice touch, keeping the bits organized and easy to store. If you want a reliable, multi-size set for general metal and plastic drilling tasks, this set is convenient and performs well. However, if your projects require drilling harder metals or very precise holes, you might need to look for bits designed specifically for those tougher conditions.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,360
Material
Size Range
Shank Type

Most important from
1429 reviews

Material
The drill bits deliver precise and easy material removal, making hole widening tasks smooth and controlled.
Size Range
The assortment of sizes combined with the sturdy storage box adds great convenience for current and future projects.
Shank Type
Designed to fit standard drills, the bits maintain control and avoid slipping during use.
#2

IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal with Aluminum Case

Rating
9.8
Material

Most important from
1429 reviews

Material
These bits are of very good quality and cut very well, even on steel.

The IRONANT Step Drill Bits set includes 5 high-speed steel (HSS) bits with a titanium coating, which enhances their sharpness and durability. These bits are designed with a 118° split point tip and a dual-flute design, promoting faster cutting speeds and preventing the bit from wandering during use. This design also facilitates quicker chip removal, making your drilling tasks more efficient.

The set offers 50 different sizes across the 5 bits, providing versatility for a wide range of DIY projects. The 3-flat shank type ensures a more secure grip in the drill chuck, reducing slippage during operation. The titanium finish further adds to the durability, making the bits suitable for drilling into materials like plastic, aluminum, and iron.

However, they are not recommended for use with stainless steel or wood, which could limit their application for some users. The inclusion of a well-organized aluminum case is a practical feature for storage and transportation. This set is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts looking for a versatile and durable solution for drilling various types of sheet metal, though it may not be ideal for more demanding materials like stainless steel.

Rating
9.8
Material

Most important from
1429 reviews

Material
These bits are of very good quality and cut very well, even on steel.
#3

NEIKO 10181A Step Drill Bit Set, 3 Piece, Spiral Grooved for Faster Drilling, Step Bits for Stainless Steel, Metal, Wood, Plastic, Unibit Cone Drill Bits with 31 Step Sizes Total

Rating
9.7
Material
Coating

Most important from
23545 reviews

Material
The high-speed alloy-steel construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a versatile tool for both woodworking and metalworking projects.
Coating
The titanium coating enhances durability and ensures smooth, clean cuts through wood and metal, reducing friction and effort during drilling.

The NEIKO 10181A Step Drill Bit Set is a versatile tool designed for drilling clean and precise holes in materials like plastic, aluminum, wood, copper, stainless steel, and other types of sheet metal. Made from high-speed steel with a titanium nitride coating, these step drill bits offer durability and strength, ensuring they can handle tough drilling tasks without wearing out quickly. The set includes three bits that together provide 31 different step sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

The spiral grooved design helps to remove debris efficiently, resulting in smoother cuts and less clogging during use. Additionally, the 1/4-inch hex shank ensures compatibility with impact-ready power tools, allowing for quick and easy bit changes. One notable feature is the split point tip, which helps to prevent the bit from wandering and ensures faster, more accurate drilling.

While the price point might be considered high by some users, especially if only a few of the sizes are needed, the set offers significant versatility. It may not be the best option for extremely heavy-duty industrial tasks due to potential wear over time. The NEIKO 10181A Step Drill Bit Set is a robust and practical choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable and efficient tool for various drilling tasks.

Rating
9.7
Material
Coating

Most important from
23545 reviews

Material
The high-speed alloy-steel construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a versatile tool for both woodworking and metalworking projects.
Coating
The titanium coating enhances durability and ensures smooth, clean cuts through wood and metal, reducing friction and effort during drilling.

Buying Guide for the Best Step Drill Bits

Step drill bits are essential tools for anyone who needs to drill holes of various sizes in materials like metal, plastic, or wood. They are particularly useful for tasks that require precision and versatility, such as electrical work, plumbing, or DIY projects. When choosing the right step drill bit, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best performance and durability for your needs.
MaterialThe material of the step drill bit is crucial because it determines the bit's durability and effectiveness. Common materials include high-speed steel (HSS), cobalt, and titanium-coated bits. HSS is suitable for general-purpose drilling in softer materials. Cobalt bits are more durable and can handle harder materials like stainless steel. Titanium-coated bits offer a balance of durability and performance, making them ideal for frequent use. Choose the material based on the type of material you will be drilling most often.
Size RangeStep drill bits come with different size ranges, indicating the range of hole diameters they can create. This is important because it determines the versatility of the bit. A bit with a wide size range can handle more tasks, reducing the need for multiple bits. For general use, a bit with a size range from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch is often sufficient. For more specialized tasks, you might need a bit with a larger or smaller range. Consider the typical sizes of holes you need to drill and choose a bit that covers those sizes.
Number of StepsThe number of steps on a step drill bit refers to the number of incremental sizes the bit can drill. More steps mean more precision and versatility, as you can create holes of various sizes without changing bits. However, more steps can also mean a longer bit, which might be less convenient in tight spaces. For general use, a bit with 10-15 steps is usually adequate. If you need more precision or versatility, look for bits with more steps. Consider the range of hole sizes you need and the space you have to work in when choosing the number of steps.
Shank TypeThe shank type of a step drill bit affects how it fits into your drill and how securely it stays in place. Common shank types include round, hex, and tri-flat. Round shanks are standard and fit most drills, but they can slip under heavy use. Hex shanks provide a more secure fit and are less likely to slip, making them ideal for high-torque applications. Tri-flat shanks offer the best grip and are designed for heavy-duty use. Choose the shank type based on the type of drill you have and the intensity of the tasks you will be performing.
CoatingThe coating on a step drill bit can enhance its performance and longevity. Common coatings include black oxide, titanium nitride, and cobalt. Black oxide provides basic protection against rust and wear. Titanium nitride offers better durability and reduces friction, making it suitable for frequent use. Cobalt coatings are the most durable and are ideal for drilling hard materials. Choose a coating based on how often you will use the bit and the types of materials you will be drilling.

FAQ