PickSmartly Review

Best Letter Size Twist Drill Bits in 2026

9.7 PM Score
Products Evaluated
7
Reviews Analyzed
6,530
Brands Ranked
6
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When precision is non-negotiable, standard fractional or metric sizing often falls short of the requirements for specialized engineering and machining tasks. This is where letter size twist drill bits become essential. Utilizing a standardized alphabetical scale, these bits allow for incremental sizing that bridges the gap between common fractions, providing the exact diameter needed for specific clearance holes, tapping operations, or pilot holes. Whether you are working in a professional machine shop or a high-end hobbyist workshop, selecting the right letter size bit is less about the alphabet and more about metallurgy, geometry, and application-specific durability.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Letter Size Twist 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
Buy on Amazon
  • 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
Buy on Amazon
  • 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
Buy on Amazon
  • 🔨[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
Buy on Amazon
  • 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

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
Buy on Amazon
  • 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 Twist Drill Bits

A Guide to Selecting the Best Letter Size Twist Drill Bits

Understanding the Letter Scale and Sizing Accuracy

The first step in selecting the right bit is ensuring you understand the specific diameter required. Letter size bits follow a standardized progression (starting with 'A' and moving through 'Z'), where each letter corresponds to a specific decimal measurement. Before purchasing, always verify the decimal equivalent of the letter size you need to avoid costly errors in assembly. High-quality bits will have the letter size clearly etched or stamped into the shank, which is vital for quick identification in a cluttered toolbox. Look for bits that offer tight tolerances. If a bit is intended for a precision fit, any deviation in the actual diameter versus the nominal letter size can result in a loose hole or a failed thread tap.

Material Composition and Substrate Compatibility

The most critical decision factor is the material the bit is made from, as this dictates what you can actually drill through. For general-purpose woodworking or soft plastics, high-carbon steel is often sufficient and cost-effective. However, for metalworking, you must look toward specialized alloys.

High-Speed Steel (HSS) is the industry standard for a wide range of metals, including aluminum and mild steel, offering a balance of toughness and heat resistance. If you are drilling through harder alloys, stainless steel, or cast iron, you should prioritize Cobalt (M35 or M42) drill bits. Cobalt bits are infused with cobalt to increase red-hardness, meaning they can maintain their cutting edge even when the friction generates intense heat. While more expensive and slightly more brittle than HSS, they are indispensable for heavy-duty industrial applications.

Flute Geometry and Chip Evacuation

The 'twist' in a twist drill bit is not just aesthetic. The flute design determines how effectively the bit removes material and heat. For deep-hole drilling, the geometry of the flutes is paramount. Wide, deep flutes are better for evacuating large chips in softer materials like wood or soft aluminum to prevent clogging and overheating. Conversely, if you are drilling through harder, more abrasive materials, you might prefer a tighter flute design that provides more structural rigidity to the bit. Pay attention to the point angle as well. A standard 118-degree point is versatile for most general tasks, but a 135-degree split point is superior for harder metals as it reduces the 'walking' effect and allows for faster penetration.

Coating and Longevity

To extend the life of your letter size bits, consider those with advanced surface coatings. Titanium Nitride (TiN) coatings are common and provide a hard, lubricious surface that reduces friction and heat buildup. For even more demanding environments, Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coatings offer superior thermal stability. A coated bit will generally stay sharper longer and resist the abrasive wear caused by drilling through high-nickel alloys. When choosing, weigh the cost of the coating against your frequency of use. For occasional projects, uncoated HSS is fine, but for continuous production environments, coated cobalt bits are the gold standard for return on investment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Letter size refers to a standardized sizing system used for drill bits, ranging from 'A' to 'Z'. These sizes fall between fractional increments, allowing for more precise hole diameters in specialized engineering and woodworking tasks.

High-Speed Steel (HSS) is the gold standard for general-purpose drilling in wood and soft metals. For drilling through harder alloys or stainless steel, Cobalt-alloy bits are preferred due to their superior heat resistance and hardness.

Yes, as long as the shank diameter of the bit is compatible with your drill's chuck size (typically 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch). Most letter size bits feature a standard cylindrical shank designed for universal use.

To prevent overheating and dulling, always use cutting fluid or lubricant when drilling metal. Additionally, maintaining a steady, moderate speed and applying consistent pressure helps dissipate heat more effectively.

A twist drill bit is designed for creating precise, clean holes with a spiral flute to evacuate debris. A spade bit is intended for faster, rougher boring in wood and does not offer the same level of precision or diameter accuracy as a letter size twist bit.

If you notice increased resistance, excessive heat generation, or if the bit is producing fine dust instead of clean chips, the cutting edges are likely dull and require sharpening or replacement.

Cobalt twist drill bits are the best choice for stainless steel. They can withstand the high temperatures generated by the friction of drilling through tough, non-ferrous metals without losing their temper.

Chip evacuation is the process of the spiral flutes pulling waste material out of the hole as you drill. Efficient chip evacuation prevents the hole from clogging, which reduces friction, prevents overheating, and stops the bit from snapping.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Letter Size Twist Drill Bits

6,530 Reviews Analyzed
7 Products Evaluated
7.8 Avg PM Score
6 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Letter Size Twist Drill Bits Brands on Amazon

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

  1. 01 Jefe Hex 2 (28.6%)
  2. 02 Comoware 1 (14.3%)
  3. 03 Gmtools 1 (14.3%)
  4. 04 Hidotol 1 (14.3%)
  5. 05 Macxcoip 1 (14.3%)
  6. 06 Wildbossy 1 (14.3%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 6,530 reviews on Letter Size Twist 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 Twist Drill Bits priced around $132.96.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 7 Letter Size Twist 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 Twist Drill Bits to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.