I'm in need of some information. I am finally willing to lay some money down for a set of good drill bits, but am incredibly suprised how close in price cobalt bits are when compared to HSS(high speed steel) bits. I understand that cobalt bits, with a rockwell hardness of over 64 or so are incredibly capable of drilling in all types of steel while staying sharp longer. To my knowledge cobalt bits are supposedly far superior to HSS bits.
However when pricing out bit sets, HSS bits seem to be priced just as high as cobalt bits.....what gives?
Any information is appreciated as I'm currently comparing MacTools bits, Cornwell Bits, and SNapOn's Thunderbits.
Thank you.
-Chad

 

Ive had good luck with cobalt stuff so I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them. All drill bits get dull but not all of them will break easily. Going with a set of cobalts and maybe getting one of those sharpeners would be a good choice.

 

cobalt is the way to go as for brands as long as its a decent name the qulaity is probably similar if the price is. The sharpeners are a must. You can break off a bit and just sharpen is and it is still good

 

I just bought a cobalt bit for almost $25!!!

I have some smaller cheap ones, and will just buy the individual cobalt bits when I need a good one.

Lamm

 

Right now the pricing is looking like this:
29piece Cobalt Thunderbit Set: 298.65
29piece HSS Thunderbit Set: 195.95

29piece Cobalt MACTOOLS Set: 239.99
29piece HSS MACTOOLS Set: 134.99

29piece Craftsmen Cobalt Set: 99.99
I wish I could get more information on how much cobalt content is in these mfg bits.
Typically it is around 5% I believe.

 

Just find a good machine shop surplus store and get all the bits for 3-5 bucks each! I know, I couldn't believe it either.