Imagine this: As you crank the wrench to remove the difficult bolt, something goes wrong, and you have to abandon your task. The bolt breaks in two, leaving you with one half stranded in its original position. Calm down! Each fractured bolt can be extracted with the proper drill bit.
To help you get your project back on track after those pesky broken bolts have stalled it, we’ve compiled a list of the best drill bits for drilling out broken bolts. Put on your protective gear, and we’ll go explore the exciting world of removing broken bolts with a drill.
6 Best Drill Bit for Drilling out Broken Bolts
IRWIN Tools Cobalt M-35 Metal Index Drill Bit Set
The IRWIN Cobalt M-35 Metal Index Drill Bit Set is one of my favorite tool sets in my workshop, and I recently bought it. I needed a set of drill bits that could handle the job because I frequently work with hard materials like cast iron and stainless steel, and this set more than did that.
The IRWIN Cobalt drill bits made it easy for me to remove a damaged bolt from a piece of stainless steel that I recently had to work with. I was able to drill out the damaged bolt easily and without causing any damage to the surrounding material because to the bits’ extreme sharpness and precision. I was able to select the right size bit for the work quickly because to the set’s metal index feature, which helped me to save time and hassle.
Pros:
- Made with M-35 cobalt steel for increased durability and heat resistance
- Can drill through tough materials like stainless steel and cast iron
- Metal index makes it easy to identify and select the correct bit size
- Comes with a sturdy case for easy organization and storage
- Variety of sizes included in the set
- Precision-ground bits for clean, accurate holes
Cons:
- May be more expensive than other drill bit sets
- May not be necessary for those who do not frequently work with tough materials
- Some users have reported breakage or dulling of the bits with extended use
DEWALT Cobalt Alloy Steel Drill Bit Set with Pilot Point
I frequently work with durable materials like cast iron and stainless steel because I’m a professional mechanic. I got the DEWALT DWA1240 Pilot Point Industrial Cobalt Drill Bit Set for that reason, and I’m really pleased with how well it works.
These drill bits are very strong and heat resistant since they are built from industrial-grade cobalt steel. These have allowed me to drill through some of the hardest materials without breaking or becoming dull. By preventing the bit from slipping or walking while in operation, the pilot point design creates cleaner, more precise holes.
Finding the proper bit for the job is simple, thanks to the set’s variety of sizes. The handy case keeps the pieces arranged and accessible, saving me time and aggravation. Overall, I would strongly suggest the DEWALT DWA1240 Pilot Point Industrial Cobalt Drill Bit Set to anyone who frequently deals with tough materials. It is a necessary tool in my workshop.
Pros:
- Made with industrial-grade cobalt steel for increased durability and heat resistance
- Pilot point design prevents slipping or walking during use, leading to cleaner and more accurate holes
- Comes with a range of sizes for versatility in various projects
- Convenient case keeps the bits organized and easy to access
- Can drill through tough materials like stainless steel and cast iron
- Suitable for professional mechanics or DIY enthusiasts
Cons:
- May be more expensive than other drill bit sets
- May not be necessary for those who do not frequently work with tough materials
- Some users have reported breakage or dulling of the bits with extended use
IRWIN Screw Extractor/ Drill Bit Set, 10-Piece
For anyone who needs to remove broken screws, nuts, or studs from diverse materials, the Irwin Tools Hanson Spiral Extractor and Drill Bit Set is a need. I discovered this set to be really practical and efficient as a DIY enthusiast.
Five spiral extractors and five left-handed cobalt drill bits are included in the kit, which is built of premium components for lifespan and durability. The extractors’ spiral shape securely grasps the shattered component, making it simple to remove it without causing any damage to the surrounding material. The fractured component can also be extracted from the material by using the left-handed drill bits, which revolve in a counterclockwise direction.
The kit is packaged in a small, sturdy case that is convenient for storage and transportation. I’ve used this set on a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood, and it has always performed wonderfully.
Pros:
- The spiral extractor design grips the broken piece securely, making it easy to remove it without damaging the surrounding material
- The left-handed cobalt drill bits are made with high-quality materials for durability and longevity
- The set comes in a compact, durable case that is easy to store and transport
- Suitable for use on various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic
- Effective for removing broken screws, bolts, or studs
- Easy to use and effective for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals
Cons:
- The set may not include the exact size or type of extractor or drill bit needed for a specific job
- The extractors may not work as effectively on extremely small or large broken pieces
- The drill bits may wear down quickly with extended use
Hymnorq Twist Drill Bits Set of 25pcs
For people who require a set of premium drill bits for numerous purposes, the Hymnorq Twist Jobber Drill Bit Set is a great choice. I was pleased with these drill bits’ performance because I routinely work with different materials.
The 29 parts in the set are all manufactured of high-speed steel for strength and longevity. The bits’ twist shape enables smoother, cleaner drilling, producing holes with greater accuracy. Also, the set comes in a variety of sizes, making it simple to choose the ideal bit for any task.
The bits’ 135-degree split point design lessens wandering and slippage while in operation, resulting in more precise drilling. The gold oxide treatment on the bits increases bit life by lowering heat and friction.
The set is packaged in a tough case for simple storage and transportation. I’ve used these drill bits on a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood, and they’ve always performed beautifully.
Pros:
- Made with high-speed steel for durability and longevity
- Twist design allows for smoother and cleaner drilling, leading to more precise holes
- 135-degree split point design helps to reduce walking and slipping during use, leading to more accurate drilling
- Gold oxide finish reduces friction and heat, making for longer bit life
- Comes in a durable case for easy storage and transport
- Suitable for use on various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic
- Includes a range of sizes for versatility
Cons:
- The set may not include the exact size or type of bit needed for a specific job
- The bits may dull or break with extended use on tougher materials
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty drilling applications
Neiko 10193A Titanium Step Bits
Anybody who requires accurate, clean holes of various sizes may consider the Neiko 10193A Titanium Step Drill Bit Set. These bits are strong and long-lasting since they are constructed of high-speed steel with a titanium coating. Three bits in the set, totaling 28 distinct sizes, provide a variety of applications.
Without the need for pilot holes, drilling can be done precisely, cleanly, and smoothly thanks to the step drill bit design. The titanium coating makes the pieces last longer and performs better by reducing heat and friction.
The pieces are packaged in a strong aluminum box for storage and organizing and have sizes that have been laser-etched for simple identification. These pieces have worked incredibly well on a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood.
Pros:
- Made of high-speed steel with a titanium coating for durability and longevity
- The step drill bit design allows for smooth, clean, and precise drilling without the need for pilot holes
- The set includes three bits with 28 different sizes for versatility
- The titanium coating helps to reduce friction and heat, making the bits last longer and perform better
- The bits have laser-etched sizes for easy identification
- Comes in a sturdy aluminum case for storage and organization
Cons:
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty drilling applications
- The smaller sizes may be more fragile and prone to breaking with extended use on tougher materials.
COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set
Anybody who wants to drill through tough materials should consider the Comoware Cobalt Drill Bit Set since it is a flexible and robust alternative. These drill bits are more heat- and wear-resistant than ordinary high-speed steel bits because they are constructed with high-speed steel that contains 5% cobalt.
The set is appropriate for a range of drilling tasks because it comes in 13 various diameters, ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch. With less wandering and slippage while in use, the 135-degree split point design enables more accurate and precise drilling.
Moreover, the pieces have a gold oxide coating that lessens heat and friction, extending their lifespan and improving performance. The round shank design prevents slippage while in operation and is compatible with the majority of drill chucks.
For anyone who has to drill through hard materials like stainless steel or cast iron, the Comoware Cobalt Drill Bit Set is a wonderful choice. The bits are suitable for a range of drilling tasks since they are strong, precise, and adaptable.
Pros:
- Made with 5% cobalt high-speed steel for durability and resistance to wear and heat
- The set includes 13 different sizes for versatility
- The 135-degree split point design reduces walking and slipping during use for more precise drilling
- The gold oxide finish reduces friction and heat, making the bits last longer and perform better
- The round shank design is compatible with most drill chucks and reduces slipping during use
Cons:
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty drilling applications
- The smaller sizes may be more fragile and prone to breaking with the extended use of tougher materials.
Buyign Guide before Buying the Best Drill Bit for Drilling Out Broken Bolts
It’s essential to have the appropriate tools for the job while drilling out broken bolts. The operation might be complicated and the surrounding material can be harmed by using the incorrect drill bit. The following elements should be taken into account when choosing the appropriate drill bits for drilling out fractured bolts:
- Material: It’s crucial to consider the drill bit’s material composition. Drill bits coated in cobalt or titanium are both good choices since they are strong and capable of working with challenging materials.
- Size: Depending on the size of the broken bolt, you must choose the appropriate size drill bit. It’s crucial to select a drill bit that is just a little bit bigger than the bolt itself to make removal simple.
- Point angle: How successfully a drill bit penetrates a substance depends on its point angle. When drilling out broken bolts, a 135-degree point angle is the best choice since it lowers the chance of slippage and produces a cleaner hole.
- The drill bit’s shank size should match the chuck size of your drill. It is advised to use a round shank because it won’t slip when you use it.
- Brand: When picking a brand for your drill bits, be sure it is well-known. High-quality drill bits that are appropriate for drilling out broken bolts are produced by companies with names like Irwin, Dewalt, and Comoware.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Best Drill Bits for Drilling out Broken Bolts
What is the best material for drill bits when drilling out broken bolts?
Cobalt and titanium-coated drill bits are both excellent options for drilling out broken bolts, as they are durable and can handle tough materials.
What size drill bit should I use when drilling out broken bolts?
The size of the drill bit you choose will depend on the size of the broken bolt. It’s important to choose a drill bit that is slightly larger than the bolt itself to allow for easy removal.
What point angle should I look for in a drill bit when drilling out broken bolts?
A 135-degree point angle is ideal for drilling out broken bolts, as it reduces the risk of slipping and creates a cleaner hole.
Should I choose a round or hex shank for drill bits when drilling out broken bolts?
A round shank is recommended for drill bits when drilling out broken bolts, as it is less likely to slip during use.
Can I use regular drill bits for drilling out broken bolts?
Using regular drill bits for drilling out broken bolts is not recommended, as they may not be able to handle the toughness of the material or may damage the surrounding area.
Are expensive drill bits worth the investment when drilling out broken bolts?
Investing in high-quality drill bits is recommended when drilling out broken bolts, as they can make a significant difference in the success of your project. It’s worth the investment to ensure that you have the right tools for the job.
More Resources
12 Best Brad Point Drill Bits in 2023
10 Best Boring Drill Bits for 2023
