Are you ready to take on those tough DIY projects that involve working with hardened steel bolts? Picture this: You’ve got your project laid out, your tools at the ready, but when it comes to drilling through hardened steel bolts, you’re met with frustration. The wrong drill bit can make a simple task seem impossible. But fear not, because in this article, we’re about to unveil the ultimate solution.

Drilling through hardened steel bolts can be a daunting task, but with the right drill bit in your arsenal, you’ll breeze through it like a pro. No need to break the bank either; we’re here to guide you on the quest for the best drill bit for hardened steel bolts, all under the budget-friendly mark of $100.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just someone looking to get the job done efficiently and economically, we’ve got you covered. We’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect drill bit for hardened steel, provide expert recommendations, and help you understand why the right drill bit can make all the difference in your projects.

So, if you’re tired of struggling with subpar drill bits that leave you with uneven holes and headaches, keep reading. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision and find the best drill bit that’ll tackle hardened steel bolts effortlessly, all while keeping your budget intact. Let’s dive in and make your DIY tasks smoother than ever before!

10 Best Drill Bit for Hardened Steel Bolts Under $100

1- Viking Drill Bit Set (29 Pieces)

2- Lichamp HSS Cobalt Drill Bit Set (29 Pcs)

3- Lichamp M2 Drill Bit Set (29 Pcs)

4- BOSCH CO21 Drill Bit Set (21-Pieces)

5- XEWEA Drill Bit Set (35-Pieces)

6- NEIKO 04206A  Drill Bit Set (35-Pieces)

7- HIDOTOL Cobalt Drill Bit Set (29-Pieces)

8- Drill America – KFD29J-PC High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (29 Pieces)

9- REBRA Drill Bit Set (31-Pieces)

10- IRWIN Drill Bit Set (10-Pieces)

1- Viking Drill Bit Set (29 Pieces)

Premium High-Speed Steel: This drill set is constructed with premium high-speed steel, ensuring durability and longevity in heavy-duty applications.

135-Degree Split Point: The drill bits feature a 135-degree split point design, which enhances precision and minimizes “walking” when starting a hole. This makes it easier to achieve accurate drilling.

Wide Range of Sizes: The set includes a comprehensive range of drill bit sizes, from 1/16 to 1/2 by 64ths, offering versatility for various drilling needs.

Precision Ground: Each component of these drill bits is precision ground, including the point, flutes, body, clearance, and drill diameter. This meticulous craftsmanship ensures ultimate accuracy and performance in drilling tasks.

Hi-Molybdenum Tool Steel: Crafted from special Hi-Molybdenum tool steel, these drill bits are engineered for exceptional strength and resistance to wear. They are designed to withstand the demands of heavy-duty jobs.

Gold Oxide Finish: The drill bits are finished with a gold oxide coating, not only enhancing their appearance but also providing corrosion resistance, further extending their lifespan.

NAS 907B Heavy Duty Jobber: Compliant with NAS 907B heavy-duty jobber standards, these drill bits are built to meet and exceed industry expectations, making them a reliable choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Features:

Dimensions: 7.13 x 4.25 x 1.88 Inches 

Manufacturer: Viking 

Item Weight: 0.01 Ounces 

Material: Stainless Steel

Product Price: $98.89

Pros:

• Exceptional Cutting Performance: Effortlessly cuts through 6061 metal, even without a vise or in a cheap drill press.

• Suitable for Automotive Industry: Ideal for experienced automotive professionals, making drilling through broken bolts easier.

• Noticeably Sharp: Sharper than common hardware store sets, ensuring precise drilling.

• Longevity: Expected to last a long time with proper care.

Cons:

• Durability Concerns: Smaller sizes (1/16 and 5/64) may break under excessive pressure.

• Chuck Damage: Some users reported soft metal, leading to chucks chewing up the bits.

2- Lichamp HSS Cobalt Drill Bit Set (29 Pcs)

Precision Drilling for Tough Materials

The Lichamp 29PCS HSS Cobalt Drill Bits Set is your ultimate solution for precision drilling through hard metals, hardened stainless steel, and cast iron. This comprehensive set of high-quality drill bits is designed to meet the demands of heavy-duty applications, and here’s why it stands out:

Innovative 3X Flute Design: The Lichamp drill bits feature a patented three-flute design that works wonders. It not only clears chips and particles faster but also provides you with a more efficient drilling experience. Thus, less downtime will be experienced and drilling can be more productive.

Material Engineered for 4X Lifespan: Crafted from industrial-grade M35 high-speed steel with 5% cobalt content, these drill bits are built to last. Their hardness ensures exceptional wear resistance, and they can withstand temperatures of up to 1100 degrees Fahrenheit without losing their cutting edge.

Versatility Across the Board: Whether you’re working with tough abrasive alloy metals, hardened stainless steel, or cast iron, these drill bits are up for the challenge. Their versatility makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, from automotive repairs to metal fabrication.

Seamless Drilling Experience: The 135-degree split point tip and twist design of these drill bits are engineered for precision. They increase cutting speed, provide self-centering capabilities, and prevent skating starts or walking. This results in clean and accurate holes every time.

Comprehensive 29-Piece Set: With a 29-piece set at your disposal, you have the right drill bit for every job. The metal index case includes a size chart for easy bit access and identification, making your drilling tasks more organized and efficient. The set covers drill bit sizes from 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch in 1/64-inch increments.

Features:

Dimensions: 8.15 x 5.79 x 2.64 inches

Manufacturer: Lichamp

Item Weight: 3.53 Ounces

Material: Cobalt Steel

Product Price: $89.99

Pros:

• Comprehensive Sizes: Complete set with all sizes in one place.
• Peace of Mind: Ensures you always have the right size bit.
• High Performance: Performs beautifully on stainless steel and mild steel.
• Sharpness: Bits feel sharp for efficient drilling.
• Versatile: Suitable for various hole sizes and materials.
• Easy to Use: Simplifies drilling tasks with consistent results.

Cons:

• Overpriced: Some users find the set to be expensive for its performance.
• Some users regret their purchase.

3- Lichamp M2 Drill Bit Set (29 Pcs)

Unlock Precision Drilling with the Lichamp M2 Drill Bits Set

When precision matters most, the Lichamp M2 Drill Bits Set steps up to the plate. Designed to conquer challenging drilling tasks, this comprehensive 29-piece set boasts an array of features that make it a standout choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Here’s what sets it apart:

Diverse Drill Bit Sizes: This set includes an impressive range of drill bit sizes, ensuring you’re always equipped with the perfect tool for the job. Sizes range from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, with a total of 29 pieces. You’ll find the ideal bit for drilling tasks, no matter how precise or demanding they may be.

Premium M2 High-Speed Steel (HSS): Crafted from top-of-the-line M2 high-speed steel, these bits are built to withstand extended use in tough materials. They excel in high-heat resistance and feature a hardened surface that makes them versatile enough to tackle wood, plastic, and various metals, including stainless steel, cast iron, light-gauge metal, and aluminum.

Colorful Titanium Nitride Finish: The colorful titanium nitride (TiN) finish doesn’t just add a vibrant touch to your toolkit; it also provides maximum corrosion resistance. This finish significantly extends the lifespan of your drill bits, ensuring they remain in prime condition for longer.

Effortless Starting with 135-Degree Split Point: Say goodbye to the frustration of drill bits wandering across your work surface. The 135-degree split-point design ensures easy starting with minimal force. It delivers precision from the first moment, helping you achieve clean and accurate holes consistently.

Durable Metal Index Case: Keeping your drill bits organized has never been easier. The durable metal index case in this set ensures that each piece has its designated spot. This index also simplifies bit access and identification, streamlining your drilling tasks and reducing downtime.

Features:

Dimensions: 7.68 x 4.61 x 2.24 inches

Manufacturer: Lichamp

Item Weight: 3.09 Pounds

Material: High Speed Steel

Product Price: $79.99

Pros:

• Made of durable M2 steel for longevity.
• Ideal for drilling hard materials.
• Versatile selection for various projects.
• It can be used both with a drill press and with a hand drill.
• Well-organized metal storage case.
• Affordable price for the quality.
• Long-lasting with proper care.
• Highly recommended for quality and sharpness.

Cons:

• Requires proper cooling and pressure.
• May not fit extremely metric sizes.

4- BOSCH CO21 Drill Bit Set (21-Pieces)

Unleash Your Drilling Potential

The BOSCH CO21 21-Piece Cobalt Metal Drill Bit Set is the ultimate toolkit for those who demand excellence in their drilling endeavors. Engineered to excel in the toughest drilling scenarios, this set is a game-changer for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Built Tough: Crafted from cobalt, these drill bits are designed to tackle the hardest and most abrasive materials with ease. Whether you’re drilling into stainless steel, cast iron, or high-density metal, these bits rise to the occasion. And they’re not limited to heavy-duty tasks; they’re equally proficient in general drilling through light-gauge metal, wood, and plastic.

Precision at Its Finest: Featuring a no-skate split-point tip, these bits guarantee clean, precise holes and accurate starts. No more frustrating wandering or misaligned drilling—just immaculate results every time.

Reliable Grip: The three-flat shank design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a practical innovation. It ensures a secure grip on the drill bits, reducing the risk of slipping. This feature is particularly crucial for bits measuring 3/16 inch and larger, where stability and control matter most.

Unmatched Performance: Engineered to withstand exceptionally high drilling temperatures, these bits shine when working with stainless steel. They’re not just reliable; they outlast standard high-speed drill bits, providing a remarkable 4X longer life.

Versatile Markings: Each bit in this set is laser-etched with clear markings indicating the bit diameter. Say goodbye to guesswork when selecting the right bit for your task. The set includes a wide range of sizes from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, ensuring you’re prepared for a multitude of drilling challenges.

Features:

Dimensions: 4.6 x 9 x 1.5 inches 

Manufacturer: ‎BOSCH

Item Weight:  ‎1.1 pounds 

Material: High Speed Steel, High Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Cobalt 

Product Price: $62.85

Pros:

• Effective for drilling through metal.
• Good quality and durability.
• Versatile for various drill bit sizes.
• Suitable for both home and work use.
• Positive experience when used with cutting fluid.

Cons:

• Limited durability, especially for tough tasks.
• Some users experienced quick wear and tear.
• Limited longevity when drilling larger holes.

5- Drill America – KFD29J-PC High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set (29 Pieces)

When precision drilling and durability are paramount, the Drill America KFD29J-PC 29-Piece High-Speed Steel Drill Bit Set is your essential toolkit. With its black and gold finish, this set delivers exceptional performance and longevity for a variety of drilling tasks. Here’s what makes it a standout choice:

Assortment of 29 Jobber Length Drill Bits: This comprehensive set covers a range of inch sizes from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, with 1/64 inch increments. Whether you’re fine-tuning a woodworking project or tackling heavy-duty metalwork, you’ll always have the right bit at your fingertips.

High-Speed Steel (HSS) for Exceptional Hardness: Crafted from high-speed steel, these bits provide the necessary hardness for wear resistance. This means they can withstand the rigors of drilling in tough materials without losing their sharpness.

Black and Gold Oxide Finish: The black and gold oxide finish not only adds a touch of style but also serves a critical function. It resists corrosion, ensuring the longevity of your drill bits, and increases their hardness for superior performance.

Self-Centering 135-Degree Split Point: Featuring a self-centering 135-degree split point, these drill bits are designed to penetrate hard materials without the need for a pilot hole. This not only saves you time but also produces small chips, reducing the risk of clogging and ensuring clean drilling results.

Convenient Plastic Storage Case: The set comes in a durable plastic storage case, ensuring that your drill bits are organized and protected. Whether you’re working in the workshop or on a job site, your bits will always be readily accessible.

Features:

Dimensions:  ‎ 7 x 3.25 x 3.5 inches

Manufacturer:  ‎Drill America

Item Weight:  ‎2.08 Pounds

Material:  High Speed Steel

Product Price: $61.23

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Effective on solid concrete
• Sturdy and organized storage case
• Suitable for wood drilling

Cons:

• Quality issues for some users
• Warranty concerns for some customers

6- XEWEA Drill Bit Set (35-Pieces)

When it comes to tackling the challenges of stripped screws, broken bolts, studs, or damaged fittings, the XEWEA 35-Piece Screw Extractor Set and Left-Hand Drill Bits emerges as your indispensable toolkit. This comprehensive collection empowers you with precision and efficiency in conquering tenacious fasteners. Here’s why it’s a standout choice:

The Ultimate 35-Piece Extractor/Drill Bit Ensemble: This set comprises 13 of the most frequently used multi-spline screw extractors, 16 robust left-hand cobalt drill bits, and 6 spiral screw extractors. This extensive array ensures that you’re fully equipped to face virtually any extraction challenge with confidence.

High-Speed Steel (HSS) Enhanced with Titanium Nitride Coating: Within this set, you’ll find drill bits meticulously designed for exceptional performance. Featuring a 135-degree split point and a twist design, they enhance cutting speed, offer self-centering capabilities, and eliminate any tendency to wander during drilling. This innovative design also accelerates chip and debris clearance. It’s worth noting, however, that while these bits excel with most materials, cobalt drill bits should not be employed for stainless steel applications.

Specialized Left-Hand Design Drill Bits: These drill bits boast a distinctive design tailored to deliver additional gripping power. They prove invaluable when used alongside screw extractors for the removal of broken studs, bolts, socket screws, and fittings. The set encompasses sizes ranging from 5/64 inch to 1/2 inch, ensuring adaptability to a wide range of tasks.

CR-MO Material Powering the Damaged Screw Extractors: The screw extractors in this set are constructed from high-quality chrome molybdenum steel (CR-MO). This material showcases remarkable attributes, including high hardness, excellent toughness, and superior strength when compared to chrome vanadium steel. The easy-out style spiral flutes dig deeper as resistance increases, ensuring an unwavering grip. You’ll find multi-spline extractors in sizes ranging from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch.

Versatile Adaptability Across Tools: These tools harmonize seamlessly with power drills, flat or allen wrenches, and tap adapters. Their remarkable adaptability makes them suitable for a diverse array of situations, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any challenge that comes your way.

Features:

Dimensions: 11.61 x 10.51 x 2.13 inches  

Manufacturer: ‎XEWEA

Item Weight:  ‎2.2 pounds

Material: Titanium Nitride

Product Price: $59.99

Pros:

• Suitable for various applications, such as removing strip heads on bolts, lug nuts for tires, and more.
• Time-Saving Tool.

Cons:

• Inadequate for Heavy-Duty Tasks.
• Expensive for the Quality: Some users find the product overpriced for its quality, especially when compared to alternatives.

7- NEIKO 04206A  Drill Bit Set (35-Pieces)

When dealing with the frustration of frozen, broken, stripped, or damaged screws and bolts, turn to the NEIKO 04206A Screw Extractor Set. This comprehensive set of extractors is your trusted partner for efficiently and effectively removing even the most stubborn fasteners. Here’s why it stands out:

The Essential Screw & Bolt Extractor Set: This set is your go-to solution for tackling a wide range of fastener-related challenges. It empowers you to remove frozen, broken, stripped, and damaged screws and bolts with speed and precision, saving you time and effort.

Built to Last: These multispline and spiral extractors are crafted from robust chrome vanadium steel, ensuring unmatched toughness and durability. The drill bits, constructed from heavy-duty high-speed steel, deliver exceptional performance even in the most demanding tasks.

Precision at Its Core: Available in both 35 and 55-piece sets, this damaged-screw extractor set features precision-engineered bits that excel at extracting fasteners. Each bit can withstand high torque output without expansion, ensuring effortless and accurate work every time.

The Perfect Size for Every Task: This set covers a wide range of sizes to meet your extraction needs. It includes drill bits ranging from 5/64 inch to 1/2 inch, screw extractors from #1 to #6, and multispline extractors from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch. The 55-piece set goes the extra mile, offering drill-bit guide bits and nut extractors for added versatility.

Versatile and Convenient: Housed in a durable and handy storage case, this set is designed for easy organization and portability. Whether you’re at home, in the garage, on a construction site, or in your shop, these extractors are your reliable companions.

Features:

Dimensions: 11.69 x 8.19 x 2.05 inches   

Manufacturer: ‎NEIKO

Item Weight:  ‎1 pounds 

Material: Chrome Vanadium Steel, High Speed Steel 

Product Price: $59.97

Pros:

• Effective on very stuck screws.
• Provides an alternative to the rubber band trick.
• Long-lasting for home use.
• Provides an alternative to the rubber band trick.

Cons:

• May not work as a standalone tool.
• May not withstand heavy industrial use.

8- HIDOTOL Cobalt Drill Bit Set (29-Pieces)

When precision drilling in hardened metals, stainless steel, cast iron, plastics, and wood is your objective, the HIDOTOL Cobalt Drill Bit Set 29 PCS is your trusted companion. This set of high-speed steel twist jobber drill bits is meticulously designed to excel in a variety of demanding materials. Here’s why it’s the ultimate choice:

Exceptional Material Quality: Crafted from High-Speed Steel M35 (Cobalt 5%), these drill bits offer extended tool life compared to ordinary counterparts when tackling hard materials. This means you can rely on them for durability and longevity.

Characteristics that Matter: The drill bits feature a 135° split point with a round straight shank, providing self-centering capabilities that eliminate walking during drilling. This ensures precision and faster drilling, making your work more efficient. The fully ground twist design isn’t just about aesthetics; it plays a vital role in clearing particles faster, reducing friction, and keeping the temperature lower for cooler drilling performance.

Widely Versatile: M35 Cobalt High-Speed Steel is the perfect match for tough, high-tensile-strength materials. These drill bits shine when cutting hardened metals like stainless steel, cast iron, high-temperature alloys, titanium alloys, hard plastics, and woods. They also perform admirably with softer materials, making them a versatile addition to your toolkit.

Comprehensive Specifications: This set of 29 jobber length drill bits covers a wide range of sizes, ensuring you have the right bit for every task. The sizes range from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, with 1/64-inch increments. This precision ensures that you’re well-prepared for various drilling challenges, from fine woodworking to heavy-duty metalworking.

Features:

Dimensions:  ‎ 6.54 x 4.29 x 3.5 inches

Manufacturer: HIDOTOL

Item Weight:  ‎2.82 Pounds

Material: Cobalt

Product Price: $59.89

Pros:

• Excellent for cutting stainless steel.
• Wide range of sizes for versatile use.
• Durable and long-lasting bits.
• User satisfaction with the product.

Cons:

• Ineffective on hardened steel, plate steel, or stainless steel.
• Some users experienced premature breakage and dulling of bits.
• Limited suitability for wood, plastic, and soft materials.

9- REBRA Drill Bit Set (31-Pieces)

The REBRA 31-Piece Screw & Bolt Extractor Set is your go-to for tackling stripped, damaged, or rusted fasteners. This versatile set includes multi-spline extractors, left-hand drill bits, and precision engineering:

Versatile Nut and Screw Extractors: 6 bolt and nut extractors adapt to SAE/Metric sizes, from 5/16 inch (8mm) to 3/4 inch (19mm). Includes a 3/8 inch to 1/4 inch hex adapter and 6 marked screw extractors from 1# to 6#.

Comprehensive Multi-Spline Extractors: 10 sizes from 1/8 inch to 13/32 inch for all jobs.

Left-Hand Drill Bits: 10 high-speed steel bits from 1/8 inch to 11/32 inch with reverse spiral groove for precision.

Unmatched Gripping Power: Precision-engineered for maximum grip on stubborn fasteners.

Features:

Dimensions:  ‎ ‎9.6 x 6.5 x 2 inches 

Manufacturer:  ‎REBRA

Item Weight:   ‎2.75 pounds 

Material:  High Speed Steel

Product Price: $50.99

Pros:

• 100% satisfaction with quality and performance.
• Outperformed a socket set from advanced auto.
• Comprehensive kit with all necessary components.

Cons:

• Some users have faced issue about small extractors are weak and prone to snapping.

10- IRWIN Drill Bit Set (10-Pieces)

Tackling broken studs, bolts, socket screws, and fittings becomes a breeze with the IRWIN Screw Extractor/Drill Bit Set, a 10-piece toolkit engineered for precision extraction. Here’s why this set stands out:

Designed for the Toughest Fasteners: This set is expertly designed to handle even the most stubborn and challenging fasteners. Whether you’re dealing with broken studs, bolts, socket screws, or fittings, these tools have you covered.

Aggressive Left-Hand Spiral Design: The aggressive left-hand spiral design provides the extra gripping power needed for efficient extraction. It bites into fasteners, ensuring a secure grip and smooth removal.

Efficient Spiral Flutes: The easy-out style spiral flutes are designed to embed themselves deeper as resistance increases, enhancing grip and making extraction smoother. This ensures you can remove fasteners with ease, no matter how stuck they are.

Tool Identification: Extractor size and the recommended drill bit size are conveniently etched on each tool. This makes it easy to select the right tool for the job, saving you time and effort.

Comprehensive Set: The set includes spiral flute screw extractors in sizes EX-1, EX-2, EX-3, EX-4, and EX-5. Additionally, it provides drill bit sizes of 5/64″, 7/64″, 5/32″, 1/4″, and 19/64″. All these tools are housed in a durable metal index case for easy storage and organization.

Features:

Dimensions:  ‎ ‎ ‎6.8 x 10.3 x 0.8 inches 

Manufacturer:   IRWIN

Item Weight:   ‎6.7 ounces 

Material:  ‎Blend

Product Price: $41.15

Pros:

• Easy to use with patience
• Versatile for various bolt sizes
• Suitable for removing taps

Cons:

• Someone faced an issue, Left-handed bits dull quickly
• Only One user got a missing bit from the kit but not at all.

You can also learn about Best Hex Shank Drill Bits.

FAQ’s:

What is the best drill bit for hardened steel bolts?

The best drill bit for hardened steel bolts is a cobalt or carbide bit due to their hardness and heat resistance, ensuring efficient drilling.

Which drill bit is stronger titanium or cobalt?

Cobalt drill bits are stronger than titanium ones, offering better durability and heat resistance for drilling tough materials like hardened steel.

Are Cobalt drill bits worth the money?

Yes, Cobalt drill bits are worth the money for their durability and performance, making them a valuable investment for various drilling tasks.

What is the difference between 5% and 8% cobalt drill?

The difference between 5% and 8% cobalt drill bits lies in the cobalt content, with 8% offering greater hardness and heat resistance for tougher materials.

Conclusion:

I hope, you have decided to choose the best drill bit for hardened steel bolts under $100. Selecting the right sub-$100 drill bit for hardened steel is vital for DIYers and pros. This article has explored affordable, high-quality options emphasizing durability, precision, and value. Matching the bit to your project’s needs and proper maintenance are key. Your choice, informed by this article and research, ensures efficient, safe, precise steel drilling, and quality outcomes.