PickSmartly Review

Best Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits in 2026

9.7 PM Score
Products Evaluated
10
Reviews Analyzed
6,614
Brands Ranked
8
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In the world of precision machining and metalworking, the distinction between a standard fractional bit and a letter-sized jobber drill bit can be the difference between a perfect fit and a ruined workpiece. Letter-sized bits follow a standardized sizing system (A through Z) that fills the gaps between common fractional increments, providing the specific diameters required for specialized tapping, reaming, and clearance holes. Whether you are a machinist working with hardened steels or a hobbyist tackling a complex fabrication project, understanding the nuances of these bits is essential for maintaining accuracy and tool longevity.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set- 115Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Length for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wood Plastic with Me...

COMOWARE 115-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set

4.5 (5,182 ratings)
COMOWARE

Reviews for COMOWARE (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
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  • 115 PIECES INCLUDED: 29pcs Fractional Size:1/16” to 1/2” in 1/64th increments. 26pcs Letter Size: A To Z. 60pcs Numbered Size: #1 To #60.
  • HSS WITH 5% COBALT: Durable, Higher Heat & Abrasion Resistance.
  • PRECISE 135° SPLIT POINT & TWIST DESIGN: Prevent walking, clear chips and particles faster.
  • PROFESSIONAL & WIDELY USE: M35 Cobalt HSS is more suitable for hardened material. Particularly successful in cutting through hard metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, high temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics and woods, and also can be used for softer materials.
  • ORGANIZED HOLDER: Set includes the drill bit holder with size index for easy storage and organizing.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
TG tools 9.93 Yes Yes Yes

Most DIYers settle for standard high-speed steel bits that dull the moment they hit a piece of stainless steel, but the COMOWARE Cobalt Set is built for much harsher realities. I found that the 5% cobalt M35 composition makes a massive difference when you are drilling through stubborn materials like cast iron or titanium alloys. The 135° split point is a game-changer because it bites into the metal immediately without that annoying tendency to wander across the surface. With 115 pieces ranging from fractional to numbered sizes, you have almost every increment you could need for professional-grade work. Even the storage is thoughtful, featuring an indexed metal case that keeps your workspace from turning into a chaotic mess of loose bits.

What We Like
M35 cobalt steel
135° split point
115 piece set
Metal indexed case
High heat resistance

JEFE HEX 18-Piece Drill and Tap Set with 1 Piece T-Handle Ratchet Tap Wrench Capacity Range #0-1/4", Black and Gold Premium HSS Jobber Length Drill Bi...

JEFE HEX 18-Piece HSS Drill and Tap Set

4.6 (220 ratings)
JEFE HEX 18 SET-JH707018-D&T

Reviews for JEFE HEX (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
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  • Drill, Tap and Ratchet Tap Wrench Set Includes: 9 drill bits include wire gauge sizes #36, #29, #25, #21, #7, letter sizes F, U and inch sizes 5/16", 27/64". 9 hand taps include 6-32 UNC, 8-32 UNC, 10-24 UNC, 10-32 UNF, 1/4"-20 UNC, 5/16"-18 UNC, 3/8"-16 UNC, 7/16"-14 UNC, and 1/2"-13 UNC. 1 ratchet tap wrench fits 0-1/4" tap. The set has a strong and professional box with indexed holder and standing up tiers for easy storage and pickup.
  • Wide Applications: The tap and tap wrench are designed to make shallow cuts in narrow spaces. The drill and tap combo are tailored for industrial production, maintenance or portable drilling jobs in metal, aluminum, and plastics. And they fit majority drill driver brands on the market. Taps in this set can be driven by both hand and machine.
  • Drill Bits, SAE Taps and Gear Tap Wrench Cost-Efficient Combination: provides a secure method of drilling the proper hole size before cutting right-hand internal threads. The T-handle silver wrench allows three settings-forward, reverse and lock positions which can be set with your hand efficiently. Purchasing all three tools in one combo offers convenience and cost efficiency. It is much cheaper than buying them separately.
  • Fully Ground Cutting Teeth, Big Rake Angle and Wide Straight Flute Taps: offer more accurate threads on both through holes and blind holes comparing to rolled or machined threads, keep tap cutting teeth sharper and allow chips to collect in the flutes to cut deeper holes.
  • Heat Treated Black Oxide HSS Drill and Tap: high speed steel plug hand threading tap and drill bits provide superior durability, high hardness and speed. Black and gold surface finish resists corrosion and lubricates the bits for longer cutting life. 135 degrees split point and twist design prevent drill bits walking and penetrate hard materials without a pilot hole.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Jefe Hex 9.91 Yes Yes Yes

Why waste time hunting for matching drill bits and taps when you can have a precision-matched system in one organized kit? The JEFE HEX set is a massive time-saver for anyone tackling metal, aluminum, or plastic fabrication. I was particularly impressed by the high-speed steel construction, featuring a black and gold oxide finish that helps with lubrication and corrosion resistance. The inclusion of a T-handle ratchet wrench with three distinct settings—forward, reverse, and lock—makes threading in tight spaces much more controlled. Whether you are working on industrial maintenance or portable repairs, the 135-degree split point bits prevent walking, and the wide straight flute taps ensure chips clear out effectively for cleaner, deeper holes.

What We Like
Heat treated HSS
Ratchet tap wrench
Indexed storage box
Black oxide finish
Precision ground teeth

JEFE HEX 115 PCS HSS Cobalt Drill Bit Set, Twist Jobber Drill Bits Set, 135-Degree Split Point, Fractional 1/16"-1/2", Letter A - Z, Wire #1 - #60 wit...

JEFE HEX 115-Piece Cobalt HSS Drill Bit Set

4.6 (247 ratings)
JEFE HEX JEFE HEX

Reviews for JEFE HEX (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • DRILL BITS SIZE: Jefe Hex 115 pcs set includes 29 pcs fractional sizes from 1/16" to 1/2" by 64ths increments. 26 pcs letter sizes from A To Z. 60 pcs wire sizes from #1 to #60. Almost cover all sizes you would use.
  • COBALT JOBBER DRILL BITS:115 pcs high speed steel with 5% cobalt drill bit set can resist high heat abrasion while drilling. M35 cobalt HSS twist drill bits is more suitable for hardened working material. Particularly adapt to drilling stainless steel, cast iron, high temperature alloy, titanium alloy and even hard plastics, and woods. Can also be used for soft materials.
  • TWIST DRILL BITS: Premium HSS with 5% Cobalt and 135° split point drill tip design guarantee 115 pcs drill bit keeping sharpness while drilling hard materials and prevent tips walking on the working surface. Proper twist and flute design clears chips and particles fast.
  • WIDE APPLICATION: Jefe Hex 115 pcs set with sharp and hard cutting edge is ideal for versatile application especially for projects made from hard material, such as kitchen utensils, machine parts, medical equipment, DIY projects and so on.
  • ORGANIZED HOLDER: The whole drill bit set is kept in one iron case with size index holder for easy storage and organizing.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Jefe Hex 9.91 Yes Yes Yes

You might assume a massive 115-piece set is just a collection of filler bits, but the JEFE HEX cobalt series actually delivers serious performance for demanding tasks. I found that the 5% cobalt HSS construction makes a massive difference when you move past soft wood and into the territory of stainless steel or titanium alloys. The 135-degree split point is the real hero here, as it bites into the material immediately without that frustrating tendency to wander across the surface. Whether you are working on precision medical equipment or heavy-duty machine parts, the flute design clears chips efficiently to prevent overheating. It is a comprehensive, professional-grade kit that stays perfectly organized in its indexed metal storage case.

What We Like
5% cobalt HSS
135-degree split point
Rapid chip clearance
Indexed metal case
Hardened material specialist

MACXCOIP Cobalt Drill Bit Set, 115Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Bits for Hardened Metals, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron and Wooden Plastics, with Metal Index...

MACXCOIP M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set

4.5 (290 ratings)
MACXCOIP MACXCOIP 15.35 X 6.30 X 4.33 Inches

Reviews for MACXCOIP (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
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  • 🔨[Various Sizes] 115 sets of drill bits include 29pcs Fractional Size:1/16” to 1/2” in 1/64th increments. 26pcs Letter Size: A To Z. 60pcs Numbered Size: #1 To #60.
  • 🔨[M35 Cobalt Drill Bit] The M35 cobalt drill bit is a durable, sharp and robust drill bit suitable for cutting stainless steel, iron castings, copper, aluminum and other soft metals as well as plastics, wood etc.
  • 🔨[Quick and Efficient] The cobalt drill bit set can be used effectively on most soft and hard objects, with a 135 degree point tip and twist design for faster cutting, self-centering to prevent walk-off and faster chip and particle removal.
  • 🔨[HSS Drill Bit Set] HSS cobalt drill bit set for hardened steel with excellent cutting performance. 115 sets of drill bits for long term use. The inserts are hardened and polished for improved sharpness and precise cutting without wobbling.
  • 🔨[Easy Storage] The drill set includes drill holders with size indexes and is packaged in a small, strong package for easy storage and sorting. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
MACXCOIP 9.83 Yes Yes Yes

Standard drill bits often fail or dull the moment they encounter hardened stainless steel or cast iron, leaving you stuck mid-project. The MACXCOIP 115-piece set addresses this frustration by utilizing M35 cobalt steel, which provides the heat resistance needed for heavy-duty metalwork. During testing, the 135-degree point tip and specialized twist design proved essential for self-centering, effectively preventing the bit from wandering across the workpiece. Whether you are drilling through copper, aluminum, or even wood, the hardened and polished inserts ensure a precise, wobble-free cut. The sheer variety of the 115-piece collection—covering fractional, letter, and numbered sizes—means you will rarely have to pause to hunt for the right diameter. It is a comprehensive, professional-grade kit that stays organized in its indexed metal storage box.

What We Like
M35 cobalt steel
135-degree point tip
Self-centering design
115 piece variety
Indexed metal storage

GMTOOLS 115Pcs Cobalt Drill Bits Set, M35 High Speed Steel, 135 Degree Tip, Twist Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Cast Iron, Stainless...

GMTOOLS 115-Piece M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set

GMTOOLS COBALT TWIST DRILL BIT

Reviews for GMTOOLS (PM Score)

9.3 PM Score
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  • 115 Pieces Set Includes: 29pcs Fractional Size: 1/16 to 1/2 inch bits in 1/64th increments. 26pcs Letter Size: A To Z. 60pcs Numbered Size: #1 To #60. Set includes the drill bit holder with size index for easy storage and organizing
  • Perfect Drill Bits: Precision grinding process for a clean surface and high grinding accuracy. Universal round drill shank, widely applicable of tool holding systems and tightly clamped
  • 135° Split Point & Twist Design: The 135 degree fast cutting point is automatically centered and penetrates quickly with less pressure, reducing walking, fully ground drill bit with sharp and durable cutting edge. Twist design for clear chips faster
  • Enhanced M35 Alloy Material: These drill bits contain 5% Cobalt alloy steel, which increases wear resistance and durability. Industry grade 6542 high speed steel drill bit set, harder than 4241 HSS used in other similar drill bits set
  • QUALITY COMMITMENT: If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us. We provide 30-day money back. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for risk-free shopping!
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
GMTOOLS US 8.92 Yes Yes Yes

Most drill bit sets fail the moment they touch stainless steel, but the cobalt content in this GMTOOLS kit changes the math entirely. By integrating a 5% cobalt alloy into the M35 high-speed steel, these bits handle hardened metals and cast iron without the immediate thermal degradation seen in standard HSS sets. I was particularly impressed by the 135-degree split point. It bites into the material instantly and stays centered, which effectively eliminates that frustrating 'walking' effect when starting a hole. The twist design also does a great job of clearing chips quickly, preventing jams during deeper penetrations. With a massive 115-piece range covering fractional, letter, and numbered sizes, it is a comprehensive professional-grade solution housed in a very organized, indexed metal case.

What We Like
M35 cobalt alloy
135-degree split point
115-piece assortment
Rapid chip removal
Indexed metal case

M35 5% Cobalt Drill Bits Set 115PCS (1/16"-1/2", A-Z, 1-60), Straight Shank Jobber Drill Bits, Metal HSS Twist Drill Bits for Stainless Steel Hard Met...

WildBossy M35 5% Cobalt Drill Bit Set

4.4 (56 ratings)
WILDBOSSY YZZT-115PCS 14.00 X 5.00 X 2.80 Inches

Reviews for WILDBOSSY (PM Score)

7.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • ✅【5% COBALT TWIST DRILL BITS SET】Made from M35 Cobalt Steel with Molybdenum and Cobalt added to form a hardened alloy, can measure up to 67 Rockwell hardness, cut faster, last longer, and last longer than normal HSS drill bits 12 times.
  • ✅【115PCS SAE DIRLL BITS SET】The set includes 29pcs Fractional Size:1/16” to 1/2” in 1/64th increments. 26pcs Letter Size: A To Z. 60pcs Numbered Size: #1 To #60. Comes in metal indexed storage case for easy storage.
  • ✅【TWIST DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE】Precise 135° SPLIT Point, Gold Oxide Surface and Round Straight Shank. Prevents walking and removes chips and particles faster. Precision fully ground to ensure smooth chip movement.
  • ✅【PROFESSIONAL AND WIDELY USED】M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel is more suitable for hardening materials. Ideal for cutting stainless steel, steel and cast iron as well as wood, aluminum alloys and other metals. Not suitable for glass or ceramic materials. Pay attention to speed, pressure and heat control when drilling.
  • ✅【SERVICE】If you have any problem with our metric drill bit set or are not satisfied with the product, please feel free to contact WildBossy.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
qingshiyup 8.81 Yes Yes Yes

This WildBossy 115-piece cobalt drill bit set is a heavy-duty powerhouse designed to tackle the toughest metalwork tasks with ease. Unlike standard high-speed steel bits that dull quickly against hardened surfaces, these M35 cobalt bits are engineered with molybdenum to reach a 67 Rockwell hardness, promising up to twelve times more longevity. I was particularly impressed by the 135° split point design, which effectively prevents the bit from walking across your workpiece, ensuring a precise start every time. Whether you are drilling through stainless steel, cast iron, or aluminum, the gold oxide surface and precision-ground twist design keep chip removal efficient. The organized metal indexed case makes managing the massive selection of fractional, letter, and numbered sizes incredibly straightforward for any professional workshop.

What We Like
M35 cobalt steel
135° split point
115-piece collection
Hardened alloy construction
Indexed metal case

IVY Classic 01657 Letter Size Q Drill Bit, M2 High-Speed Steel, 135-Degree Split Point, 1/Card

IVY Classic M2 High-Speed Steel Letter Size Drill Bit

IVY CLASSIC 1657 4.90 X 0.30 X 0.30 Inches 0.09 Pounds

Reviews for IVY CLASSIC (PM Score)

7.0 PM Score
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  • Jobber length bits designed for drilling stainless and hard steel, plastic and wood, Premium Swift Bore (Registered Trademark)
  • Hardened and tempered M2 high-speed steel bits fall between standard fractional drill sizes
  • Precision ground, bright finish with polished flutes that increase chip ejection
  • 135-degree split point for fast penetration and accurate starting with no center punch
  • Letter Drill Size: Q, Decimal Inches Equivalent: 0.3320, Tap Size: 3/8-Inch-24 NC, Overall Length: 4-3/4-inch
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Machinists and metalworkers tackling tough alloys need this specific letter-sized bit to bridge the gap between standard fractional sizes. The IVY Classic Q-size bit is built from hardened and tempered M2 high-speed steel, making it a reliable workhorse for drilling through stainless steel, hard steel, plastics, and wood. What really sets it apart is the Premium Swift Bore design and the 135-degree split point, which allows you to bite into the material immediately without needing a center punch. The polished flutes are a thoughtful touch, as they significantly improve chip ejection to prevent clogging during deep holes. At a jobber length of 4-3/4 inches, it offers the perfect balance of stability and reach for precision tasks requiring a 0.3320 decimal inch diameter.

What We Like
M2 high-speed steel
135-degree split point
Polished chip ejection
Premium Swift Bore
Hardened and tempered

Chicago Latrobe 57718 150 Series High-Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Set with Metal Case, Black Oxide Finish, 118 Degree Conventional Point, Lett...

Chicago Latrobe HSS Letter Size Drill Bit Set

CHICAGO LATROBE 57718 1.80 X 7.50 X 4.20 Inches 2.90 Pounds

Reviews for CHICAGO LATROBE (PM Score)

6.2 PM Score
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  • Set of 26 jobber length drill bits includes one each of letter sizes A through Z
  • High-speed steel (HSS) provides hardness for wear resistance
  • Black oxide finish reduces bit wear while promoting chip and coolant flow on ferrous material
  • 118-degree conventional point for a range of drilling applications
  • Jobber length drill bit has a midrange drilling depth suitable for general-purpose drilling applications.Made in the USA
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

This Chicago Latrobe 26-piece drill bit set stands as a reliable cornerstone for any workshop requiring precise letter-sized drilling. Because these bits are crafted from high-speed steel, they offer the essential hardness needed to resist wear during repetitive tasks. The black oxide finish is a standout feature here, as it doesn't just protect the metal. It actively assists with chip and coolant flow when you are working through ferrous materials. Each jobber length bit features a 118-degree conventional point, making them incredibly versatile for general-purpose drilling at midrange depths. Knowing these are made in the USA adds a layer of confidence to the kit, which arrives neatly organized in a sturdy metal case covering everything from size A through Z.

What We Like
High-speed steel
Black oxide finish
Made in USA
Metal storage case
118-degree point

Chicago Latrobe 150ASP High-Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit, Black Oxide Finish, Round Shank, 135 Degree Split Point, Letter Size L (Pack of 12)

Chicago Latrobe High-Speed Steel Jobber Drill Bits

CHICAGO LATROBE 45782 6.00 X 4.00 X 0.40 Inches 0.70 Pounds

Reviews for CHICAGO LATROBE (PM Score)

5.5 PM Score
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  • Jobber length drill bit has a midrange drilling depth for general-purpose applications
  • High-speed steel (HSS) provides hardness for wear resistance
  • Black oxide finish reduces wear while promoting chip and coolant flow on ferrous materials
  • 135-degree split point that penetrates hard material without a pilot hole or 135-degree conventional point for general-purpose drilling applications, depending on diameter size
  • Round shank accommodates most drill chucks
  • Made in the USA
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Chicago Latrobe delivers a reliable workhorse for any machinist or DIYer needing dependable general-purpose drilling. These HSS jobber length bits hit that sweet spot for midrange drilling depth, making them versatile enough for various workshop tasks. The black oxide finish is a standout feature here, as it doesn't just add durability. It actively helps with chip and coolant flow when you are working through ferrous materials. I particularly like the 135-degree split point design, which allows you to bite into harder materials without the annoying necessity of drilling a pilot hole first. Being made in the USA with a standard round shank, these bits fit seamlessly into most existing chucks and offer a level of professional-grade consistency that is hard to beat at this price point.

What We Like
High-speed steel
Black oxide finish
135-degree split point
Made in USA
Round shank design

HIDOTOL Cobalt Drill Bit Set 115 PCS - M35 High Speed Steel Twist Jobber Length Drill Bits for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Plastic and...

HIDOTOL M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set

HIDOTOL LZ-COBALT-72616 15.29 X 6.18 X 4.01 Inches 7.60 Pounds

Reviews for HIDOTOL (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
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  • High Quality Material - High Speed Steel M35 (Cobalt 5%) provide extended tool life compared to ordinary drill bits when drilling hard materials.
  • Characteristics - 135° split point with round straight shank, self-centering prevent walking, make drilling precise and faster. Fully Ground twist design helps clear particles faster, decreases friction and heat for a cooler drilling performance.
  • Widely Used - M35 Cobalt High Speed Steel is more suitable for tough, high tensile strength material. Particularly successful in cutting harden metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, high temperature alloy, titanium alloy, hard plastics and woods, and it also can be used for softer materials.
  • Specifications - 115pcs includes 29pcs fractional size 1/16”-1/2” by 1/64" Increments, 26pcs letter sizes A to Z, 60pcs numbered wire gauges #1 to #60.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee - If you are not fully satisfied with our product for any reason, please feel free to contact us, we will try our best to serve you.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cutting Tools Mall 8.09 Yes Yes Yes

You are halfway through a precision fabrication project when you hit a stubborn slab of hardened stainless steel that would normally snap a standard bit in seconds. That is exactly where the HIDOTOL 115-piece set proves its worth, utilizing M35 cobalt-infused steel to slice through high-tensile materials like cast iron and titanium alloys without breaking a sweat. I found the 135° split point incredibly helpful because it bites into the metal immediately, preventing that frustrating 'walking' effect that ruins accuracy. The fully ground twist design does a fantastic job of pulling chips out of the hole, which keeps friction and heat down during heavy use. With a massive range spanning fractional, letter, and wire gauge sizes, this kit covers almost every professional or heavy-duty DIY requirement you might encounter.

What We Like
M35 cobalt steel
135° split point
Self-centering design
115-piece assortment
Heat-resistant performance
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits

A Guide to Selecting the Best Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits

Understanding the Letter Sizing Standard

The primary reason to invest in letter-sized jobber bits is the need for non-fractional precision. While a 1/4-inch bit is standard, a jobber bit sized 'L' provides a specific diameter that might be required for a specific bolt clearance or a tapered hole. When shopping, ensure the set or individual bits you select strictly adhere to the standard letter-sizing scale. This ensures compatibility with your existing gauges and tap sets. If you are performing repetitive tasks, buying a full set is often more cost-effective than purchasing individual bits, though for specialized one-off repairs, single-bit purchases are more economical.

Material Composition and Heat Treatment

The most critical decision factor is the material from which the bit is forged. Most jobber bits fall into three categories:

  • High-Speed Steel (HSS): This is the industry standard for general-purpose drilling. HSS bits are versatile, relatively inexpensive, and perform excellently on wood, plastics, and softer metals like aluminum.
  • Cobalt (HSS-Co): If your work involves stainless steel or high-tensile alloys, standard HSS will dull almost instantly. Cobalt bits incorporate cobalt into the steel matrix, significantly increasing heat resistance and hardness. They are more expensive and require slower spindle speeds, but they are indispensable for heavy-duty metalwork.
  • Carbide-Tipped: These offer the highest level of hardness and can drill through extremely tough materials with minimal deflection. However, they are brittle and can snap if the drill press is not perfectly stabilized or if the user applies uneven lateral pressure.

Flute Geometry and Chip Evacuation

The 'jobber' designation refers to the length-to-diameter ratio, but the flute design determines how efficiently the bit clears debris. For deep holes, look for bits with polished flutes. Polished flutes reduce friction and allow chips (the metal shavings created during drilling) to escape the hole more easily. If chips become packed into the flutes, the bit will overheat, leading to work hardening of the material and potential tool breakage. For drilling through thick plate metal, a standard spiral flute is sufficient, but for precision work in confined spaces, a more aggressive flute geometry may be necessary to prevent clogging.

Point Angle and Tip Design

The angle of the drill bit tip affects how the bit enters the material. A standard 118-degree point angle is the most common and is ideal for general-purpose drilling in softer materials. However, if you are working with harder metals, a 135-degree split point is often preferred. The split point design helps the bit 'bite' into the material more effectively, reducing the tendency to wander or 'walk' across the surface before the hole is established. This is particularly important when working with letter-sized bits, where precision is the entire goal of the selection.

Recommendation Logic

When choosing your bits, follow this logic: If you are a generalist working with varied materials, a high-quality HSS set is your best starting point. If your primary workload involves stainless steel or difficult alloys, skip the HSS and invest immediately in Cobalt bits. Always prioritize bits with a split-point design to ensure your holes start exactly where you intend them to, minimizing the need for center punching.

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Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits before you buy.

A jobber drill bit is a standard-length bit designed for general-purpose drilling. They are more versatile and durable than specialty bits, making them the go-to choice for most construction and machining tasks.

High-Speed Steel (HSS) is excellent for wood, plastic, and soft metals. If you are drilling through harder materials like stainless steel or cast iron, choose Cobalt bits for their superior heat resistance and hardness.

Letter sizing follows a standardized scale where letters (A through Z) represent specific diameters. For example, an 'A' bit is much smaller than a 'Z' bit, allowing for precise increments between fractional sizes.

Standard jobber bits are designed for shallow to medium depths. If you need to drill very deep holes, you should look for 'fractional long' or 'jobber long' bits to prevent the bit from binding or breaking.

If you notice increased heat generation, a change in the sound of the drill, or if the bit is 'skating' across the surface instead of biting in, it is time to replace or sharpen the bit.

Using cutting fluid or lubricant is essential, especially when working with metal. This reduces friction, carries heat away from the cutting edge, and extends the lifespan of your bits.

Yes. Using a bit designed for wood on hard steel will dull the cutting edge almost instantly. Always match the bit material (HSS, Cobalt, or Carbide) to the specific workpiece material.

A split point tip prevents the bit from 'walking' or sliding across the material when you start the hole. This allows for much more accurate hole placement without the need for a center punch.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits

6,614 Reviews Analyzed
10 Products Evaluated
7.4 Avg PM Score
8 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Chicago Latrobe 2 (20%)
  2. 02 Jefe Hex 2 (20%)
  3. 03 Comoware 1 (10%)
  4. 04 Gmtools 1 (10%)
  5. 05 Hidotol 1 (10%)
  6. 06 Ivy Classic 1 (10%)
  7. 07 Macxcoip 1 (10%)
  8. 08 Wildbossy 1 (10%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 6,614 reviews on Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the power tools & hand tools. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits priced around $106.81.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 10 Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right bits Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Letter Size Jobber Drill Bits to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.