We first put our hands on these new Diablo Tools Step Bits in November of last year at the STAFDA event in Nashville, TN. A tight group of influencers and reviewers were able to check out all the great tools and accessories that Diablo will be rolling out for 2020. From a glance, and even a long stare, these bits are just pristine. We wondered if the step bits that actually hit the shelves would look the same, and they do!

Diablo Tools Step Bits Features

The Diablo Tools Step Bits are made in Switzerland from a completely automated CNC process. Each bit is precisely ground with dual sharp cutting flutes in each bit. The bits are available from 1/4″ all the way up to 1-3/8″ in diameter. All of the bits, except for the largest, have a 1/4″ hex shank, ready for an impact driver. With the 1-3/8″ step bit, Diablo increased the shank size to 3/8″, meant for drill use only.

With the dual cutting flutes, you get much more balance during the cut, providing better performance overall. Dialbo includes a 132° split tip design that pretty much eliminates the need for a pilot hole (pre-drilling). We used one of the 1/2″ bits to create 12 holes in 14ga stainless steel, without drilling one pilot hole. Diablo Tools Step Bits are intended for 1/8″ metal (or thinner) and PVC, so we definitely pushed them a little beyond with the stainless steel.

Our Thoughts

We liked these bits when we used them at the STAFDA event last year and those thoughts are solidified after using them more in our shop. They cut very well, and they respond well to wax lubrication, cutting faster and cooler. We do wish they were sold in a kit. You can get the 1/2″ bits for about $25, while the 1-1/8″ and 1-3/8″ will set you back $60 and $65. Theses Diablo Tools Step Bits are already available now.

Diablo Step Bits Specifications

Model: DSD0500S06

• Diameter: 1/2″
• Length: 3-3/8″
• Shank: 1/4 in. hex
• Number of Steps: 6
• MSRP: $25

Model: DSD0500S13

• Diameter: 1/2″
• Length: 3-1/32″
• Shank: 1/4 in. hex
• Number of Steps: 13
• MSRP: $30

Model: DSD0750S09

• Diameter: 3/4″
• Length: 2-19/32″
• Shank: 1/4 in. hex
• Number of Steps: 9
• MSRP: $30

Model: DSD0875S12

• Diameter: 7/8″
• Length: 2-3/4″
• Shank: 1/4 in. hex
• Number of Steps: 12
• MSRP: $40

Model: DSD1125S17

• Diameter: 1-1/8″
• Length: 3-1/32″
• Shank: 1/4 in. hex
• Number of Steps: 17
• MSRP: $60

Model: DSD1375S15

• Diameter: 1-3/8″
• Length: 2-29/32″
• Shank: 3/8 in. with 3-flats
• Number of Steps: 15
• MSRP: $65