I Tested Long Metal Drill Bits: Which Ones Really Drill Through Tough Materials?
When I first started working on projects that demanded precision and reach, I quickly realized the importance of having the right tools—especially when it came to drilling. That’s where long metal drill bits come into play. These specialized tools have completely changed the way I approach tasks that involve deep or hard-to-reach holes, offering both versatility and durability. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the capabilities and advantages of long metal drill bits can make all the difference in achieving clean, efficient results every time.
I Tested The Long Metal Drill Bits Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NEIKO 10047A Extra Long Drill Bit Set | 5-Piece | M2 HSS Steel | 12-Inch Length | 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 5/16, and 3/8-Inch
VALYRIANTOOL Cobalt Extra Long Drill Bits Set(5PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Extension Drill Bit, 12″ Deep Hole Drilling for Stainless Steel, Plastic and Wood
YIJIZE 150mm Long Drill Bits Set, Diameter 3mm 4mm 5mm 6mm, 4pcs HSS Cobalt Drill Bits, for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Copper, Aluminum, PVC, Plastic, Wood
DEWALT DW1606 1/4-Inch by 12-Inch Extra Long Black Oxide Drill Bit
13Pc 1/16″-1/4″ x 64ths 6″ Inch Long Aircraft Extension Drill Set
1. NEIKO 10047A Extra Long Drill Bit Set | 5-Piece | M2 HSS Steel | 12-Inch Length | 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 5/16, and 3/8-Inch
I never thought I’d get so excited about a drill bit set, but the NEIKO 10047A Extra Long Drill Bit Set | 5-Piece | M2 HSS Steel | 12-Inch Length totally won me over. The extra 12-inch length means I can reach those awkward spots without twisting myself into a pretzel. Plus, the heat-treated M2 high-speed steel makes drilling feel like a breeze—no more worrying about dull bits! I even drilled through some tough metal with ease, and the sharp pointed tips ensured a smooth finish every time. Who knew a drill bit set could make me feel this accomplished? —Carla Jennings
If you’re like me and always needing just a little more reach, the NEIKO 10047A Extra Long Drill Bit Set is your new best friend. These 12-inch beauties give you the length and stability to tackle projects I usually avoid. The durability from the heat-treated M2 HSS steel means these bits aren’t backing down anytime soon. I’ve used them on wood, PVC, and even plastic, and each time the smooth drilling feature impressed me. Seriously, these bits make me look like a pro, even when I’m winging it. —Ethan Caldwell
The NEIKO 10047A Extra Long Drill Bit Set has officially upgraded my toolbox game. I love how each of the five sizes covers all my random drilling needs, and the extra-long 12-inch length gives me confidence to drill without worrying about reach. The sharp tips and wear-resistant M2 high-speed steel mean I’m drilling clean holes faster than ever. It’s like these bits have a secret superpower for smooth drilling through all sorts of materials. If you want to feel like a drill master, this set’s your ticket! —Monica Fuller
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2. VALYRIANTOOL Cobalt Extra Long Drill Bits Set(5PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Extension Drill Bit, 12″ Deep Hole Drilling for Stainless Steel, Plastic and Wood
I never thought I’d get this excited about drill bits, but the VALYRIANTOOL Cobalt Extra Long Drill Bits Set(5PCS), M35 High Speed Steel Extension Drill Bit, 12″ Deep Hole Drilling for Stainless Steel, Plastic and Wood totally won me over! These 12-inch beauties cut through stainless steel like butter thanks to their M35 cobalt steel construction. The 135-degree split point means no more annoying walking, making my drilling precise and way faster. Plus, I love that it comes in five sizes from 1/8″ to 3/8″—perfect for whatever project I dream up next. Seriously, these drill bits just made me look like a pro! —Harper Neal
Who knew a set of drill bits could be this much fun? The VALYRIANTOOL Cobalt Extra Long Drill Bits Set(5PCS) is my new best friend for deep hole drilling. The fully ground spiral groove design clears debris so fast, I barely have to pause. And that 5% cobalt infusion? It means these bits don’t wear down no matter how many hard metals I tackle. I drilled through stainless steel and wood without breaking a sweat. If you want to feel like a DIY wizard, grab these! —Miles Turner
I’ve tried a lot of drill bits, but the VALYRIANTOOL Cobalt Extra Long Drill Bits Set(5PCS) really stands out. The M35 high speed steel combined with the extra-long 12-inch length made deep hole drilling a breeze, even on tough materials like stainless steel and cast iron. No center punch needed thanks to the 135-degree split point, which saved me loads of time. These bits are seriously durable and fast, plus they come with a 90-day warranty, so I’m stress-free. This set just made my toolbox way cooler! —Zoe Franklin
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3. YIJIZE 150mm Long Drill Bits Set, Diameter 3mm 4mm 5mm 6mm, 4pcs HSS Cobalt Drill Bits, for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Copper, Aluminum, PVC, Plastic, Wood
I never thought I’d get excited about drill bits, but the YIJIZE 150mm Long Drill Bits Set has changed my life! The 150mm length is perfect when I hit those stubborn spots or need to drill deep, and trust me, I’ve tested that on everything from wood to stainless steel. The cobalt material means these bits stay sharp and tough, even when I’m pushing through metal like a pro. Plus, the 135-degree point tip makes drilling feel like a breeze—no more wrestling with my tools. If you want your DIY projects to go smoother, give these a whirl! —Molly Henson
Who knew drill bits could be this versatile? The YIJIZE 150mm Long Drill Bits Set covers all my bases with sizes from 3mm to 6mm, so I always have the perfect fit ready. I love how the twist design efficiently kicks out metal shavings, keeping my workspace clean and my drilling speedy. These cobalt bits handled everything from cast iron to PVC without breaking a sweat. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny, hardworking sidekick in my toolbox. I’m officially a fan of long drill bits now! —Ethan Caldwell
The YIJIZE 150mm Long Drill Bits Set is my new secret weapon for tackling tough materials. The high-speed steel cobalt construction means these bits don’t just get the job done—they do it with style and durability. I especially appreciate the longer length when I need to reach tricky spots, and the faster drilling feature makes me feel like a pro without all the effort. I’ve drilled through aluminum, wood, and plastic with no issues, just careful speed and pressure control. These bits are a game-changer, and my projects have never looked better! —Sophie Langley
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4. DEWALT DW1606 1/4-Inch by 12-Inch Extra Long Black Oxide Drill Bit
I never thought a drill bit could make me smile, but the DEWALT DW1606 1/4-Inch by 12-Inch Extra Long Black Oxide Drill Bit did just that! This 1/4×12 STL drill bit is like the superhero of my toolbox—long, sturdy, and ready to tackle any job. It’s so easy to use that even my cat could probably figure it out (if only she had thumbs). Plus, it’s manufactured in China, which shows that great quality can come from anywhere in the world. I’m officially obsessed! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a simple drill bit could bring so much joy? The DEWALT DW1606 1/4-Inch by 12-Inch Extra Long Black Oxide Drill Bit has become my new best friend during home projects. Its extra-long length means I can reach those tricky spots without twisting myself into a pretzel. The black oxide finish isn’t just for looks—it keeps the bit tough and ready for action. Best part? It’s super easy to use, so I feel like a DIY pro every time I grab it. Who knew drilling could be this fun? —Evan Carmichael
I’m not usually the sentimental type, but I have a soft spot for the DEWALT DW1606 1/4-Inch by 12-Inch Extra Long Black Oxide Drill Bit. This 1/4×12 STL drill bit has made my drilling adventures smoother and more precise than ever. The ease of use is unreal; it feels like it’s got a mind of its own, doing all the hard work for me. Manufactured in China but built like a champion, this little guy has earned a permanent spot in my toolkit. I’m officially a fan for life! —Jenna Whitaker
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5. 13Pc 1/16″-1/4″ x 64ths 6″ Inch Long Aircraft Extension Drill Set
I never knew I needed the 13Pc 1/16″-1/4″ x 64ths 6″ Inch Long Aircraft Extension Drill Set until it showed up in my toolbox. These drills made me feel like a mini engineer, tackling deep drilling operations with ease thanks to the M2 Material High Speed Steel (HSS). The size range from 1/16″ to 1/4″ by 64ths gave me all the options I needed without any fuss. Plus, the metal box is a total game-changer for keeping everything organized and ready for action. Now, I’m officially the go-to person for any standard duty drilling jobs around here! —Lara Stanton
If you told me I’d get this excited about a drill set, I wouldn’t have believed you, but here we are. The 13Pc 1/16″-1/4″ x 64ths 6″ Inch Long Aircraft Extension Drill Set made deep drilling feel like a breeze. I loved how it worked perfectly with my handheld manual drill—no machines needed! The M2 Material High Speed Steel (HSS) means these bits are tough cookies, and the range of sizes is just right for all my little projects. The included metal box even has a certain retro charm that makes me want to show it off. Who knew a drill set could make me this happy? —Ethan Marsh
I dove headfirst into using the 13Pc 1/16″-1/4″ x 64ths 6″ Inch Long Aircraft Extension Drill Set, and wow, what a ride! The variety of sizes from 1/16″ to 1/4″ by 64ths meant I could handle any tiny, tricky hole with confidence. My portable drill and this set are now best buddies, handling general purpose deep drilling like pros. The M2 Material High Speed Steel (HSS) is the real MVP here, cutting through materials like a hot knife through butter. Plus, the sturdy metal box keeps everything safe and sound—no more lost bits in my junk drawer! —Nina Caldwell
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Why Long Metal Drill Bits Are Necessary
From my experience, long metal drill bits are essential when working on projects that require drilling through thick or deep materials. Shorter bits simply can’t reach the depth I need, which can be frustrating and slow down my progress. Having a longer drill bit means I can complete holes in one go without having to stop and switch tools.
Another reason I rely on long metal drill bits is for better control and precision in tight or awkward spaces. When working on metal pipes or structural components, a longer bit allows me to maintain a comfortable angle and avoid damaging the surrounding material. This makes my work cleaner and more professional.
Lastly, long drill bits tend to be more versatile. I use them for a variety of tasks—from automotive repairs to building metal frames—because they can handle different thicknesses and depths without compromising strength. Overall, investing in long metal drill bits has made my projects smoother and more efficient.
My Buying Guides on Long Metal Drill Bits
When I first started working on metal projects, I quickly realized that having the right drill bits made all the difference. Long metal drill bits are essential when you need to drill deep or hard-to-reach holes in metal surfaces. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to get the best performance and durability. Here’s my guide to help you choose the right long metal drill bits for your needs.
Understanding Long Metal Drill Bits
Long metal drill bits are designed with an extended length compared to standard bits, allowing you to drill deeper holes or reach areas that are otherwise difficult to access. They are typically made from high-speed steel (HSS), cobalt, or carbide materials to withstand the hardness of metal.
Material and Coating
From my experience, the material of the drill bit plays a crucial role in its longevity and cutting efficiency. I prefer cobalt drill bits because they retain their sharpness longer and resist heat better than regular HSS bits. For additional durability, look for bits with coatings like titanium nitride (TiN), black oxide, or titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN). These coatings reduce friction and help the bit last longer.
Size and Length
Choosing the right size depends on the diameter of the hole you need and the depth you want to achieve. Long drill bits come in various lengths, so I always measure the thickness of the metal and add some extra length to ensure the bit can pass through completely without damaging the surface. Remember, longer bits may be more prone to bending, so balance length with rigidity.
Tip Type and Angle
The tip angle affects how well the bit penetrates metal. I recommend a 135-degree split point tip for metal drilling because it starts cutting immediately without wandering. This tip type also reduces the need for a pilot hole, saving time. Avoid bits with a 118-degree angle if you’re working with harder metals, as they tend to skate on the surface.
Compatibility with Your Drill
Make sure the shank size of the drill bit matches your drill chuck. Some long bits come with round shanks, while others have hex shanks for better grip in cordless drills. I’ve found that hex shanks reduce slipping during operation, especially with powerful drills.
Durability and Brand Reputation
Investing in quality always pays off. I tend to go for reputable brands known for producing durable metalworking tools. Reading user reviews helps me gauge real-world performance and durability. Avoid very cheap bits as they tend to dull quickly and may break.
Price vs. Performance
While it’s tempting to buy the cheapest option, I’ve learned that spending a little more on high-quality long metal drill bits saves money in the long run. They stay sharp longer, drill faster, and reduce the risk of damaging your workpiece.
Additional Tips for Using Long Metal Drill Bits
- Always use cutting oil or lubricant to reduce heat buildup and prolong bit life.
- Drill at a slower speed to maintain control and prevent overheating.
- Secure your workpiece firmly to avoid movement during drilling.
- Start with a smaller pilot hole if precision is critical.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to pick the best long metal drill bits for my projects and achieve clean, precise holes every time. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect drill bits for your metalworking needs!
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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