How To Drill Steel with Different Bits

There’s really no magic in learning how to drill steel. Sure, you can download all the speeds and feeds associated with different bits, different materials, etc. However, you can also just follow some basic principles that will get most people through the job, successfully. Keep in mind, that this article on how to drill steel is primarily focusing on mild steel. If you’re drilling a lot of stainless or hardened steel, then you’re probably already advanced beyond this content.

Drilling into sheet metal is most likely an easy task for most. Just about any twist bit and hole saw can complete this task without much thought and effort. If you’re using a cordless drill, use the low speed setting and you should be good. You probably want to add some cutting oil or wax when using a hole saw. The same twist bits and hole saws you use in wood should work for sheetmetal as well. Just make sure the hole saws state “bi-metal” somewhere. Step bits or unibits are also a great choice for making holes in thinner metal. Also Find FF Advance Server.

Drilling in Thicker Steel

Once you step beyond 10ga or 1/8″ steel, things get a little more serious, but it’s not rocket surgery. Once you understand how to drill steel with twist bits, things really don’t change much. Make sure your bits are sharp and start with a pilot hole (~1/8″). When using twist bits, I like to use cutting wax for lubrication, but you can also use cutting oil. To enlarge the hole, annular cutters (hole saw for steel) are best, but the Champion Cutting Tool Step Bits for Thick Steel are also a great choice.

Finally, if you want the ultimate tool for drilling in thick steel, then a MAG Drill with annular hole cutters is the way to go. Be sure to check out the video for all the details.

Champion Jobber Bit Set on Amazon