Drill bits long

Start with the material you’ll drill and the required hole depth. Look for high-speed steel (HSS) twist bits, which are suitable for metal, wood, plastic, and softer materials. Sets here range from 13 to 25 pieces and offer sizes from about 1.5 mm up to 13 mm, with long-length designs that reach deeper into workpieces. A long shank helps maintain accuracy, while a selection up to 13 mm covers many common tasks.

The tip geometry and shank style are the most critical details. Some sets feature 135° tips for robust cutting on metal, while others advertise a split-point design to prevent walking when starting a hole. Hex shanks improve chuck grip and reduce slipping in the drill, which is especially helpful for steady, accurate drilling on metal and hardwood.

For broad DIY tasks, a 19–25 piece set with sizes up to 10–13 mm covers most common metals, woods, and plastics. If you work mainly with thinner materials or occasional tasks, a smaller 13–19 piece set provides essential sizes with reliable performance. Sets explicitly mentioning long-length bits are ideal for reaching recessed areas and ensuring clean starts in metal and wood alike.

Lubricate cutting edges when drilling metal to reduce heat and extend edge life. Avoid overheating by drilling at appropriate speeds and using steady pressure. Store bits in their case to prevent dulling and corrosion, and ensure the shank fits securely in the chuck to avoid slippage during use.

HSS twist drill bits are designed for metal, including steels and alloys, as well as aluminum, wood, and plastic. Certain larger sets emphasize metalworking and multi-material use, while specific bits like augers are better for deep wood drilling. When in doubt, match the bit type to the material and use proper lubrication to maintain performance.

For frequent metal and multi-material drilling, a 19–25 piece set with a broad size range is efficient and versatile. If you mainly tackle light-duty tasks, a compact 13–19 piece set with essentials in smaller sizes may suffice. Consider the variety of depths you encounter and pick a set that covers both common small holes and deeper holes you’ll encounter regularly.