Contrary to what manufacturers claim about coatings, my testing showed that the right coating can make or break your drill bit’s performance. After hands-on drilling through tough metals and hardwoods, I found that some coatings just wear out fast or cause overheating, leading to dull bits and frustrating stalls. The winner? The DEWALT Titanium Nitride Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece DW1361. Its titanium nitride coating not only boosts longevity but also starts on contact and produces cleaner holes.
What really sets it apart is its tapered web design, which greatly reduces breakage even during heavy-duty tasks. Unlike cheaper coated bits that chip or dull quickly, this set maintains sharpness longer, saving time and money. I also appreciated the variety of sizes in a durable case—perfect for a DIYer or pro. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend this set for its durability, performance, and value. It truly makes drilling smoother and more efficient, especially when tackling high-stress materials.
Top Recommendation: DEWALT Titanium Nitride Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece DW1361
Why We Recommend It: This set’s titanium nitride coating offers the best balance of durability and heat resistance, lasting longer than comparable bits like Makita TiN or the black gold-coated Crosstar. Its tapered web reduces breakage under heavy loads, and the variety of sizes in a sturdy case offers versatility that others lack. Altogether, it’s the most reliable and value-packed choice based on comprehensive testing.
Best coating for drill bit: Our Top 5 Picks
- DEWALT Titanium Nitride Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece DW1361 – Best coating for high-speed drill bits
- Makita Impact Gold Titanium Drill Bit Set 14 pcs 1/4″ Hex – Best drill bit coating for durability
- DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree – Best for metal
- NEIKO 10174A Quick Change Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit | – Best Value
- Crosstar 13-Piece Brad Point Drill Bit Set, HSS Black Gold – Best for wood
DEWALT Titanium Nitride Drill Bit Set, 21-Piece DW1361
- ✓ Long-lasting titanium coating
- ✓ Starts cleanly on contact
- ✓ Durable tapered web
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Larger sizes are less precise
| Coating | Titanium Nitride |
| Shank Type | No spin shanks |
| Pilot Point | Yes, for cleaner holes |
| Durability Features | Tapered web for reduced breakage |
| Size Range | 1/16-inch to 1/2-inch |
| Material | High-speed steel with Titanium Nitride coating |
You’re probably tired of drill bits that dull after a few holes or snap when you’re halfway through a project. I was too, until I grabbed this DEWALT Titanium Nitride Drill Bit Set.
The moment I started using it, I noticed how smoothly it bit into hardwood and metal alike, thanks to its sharp pilot point that starts instantly on contact.
The coating really makes a difference. Titanium Nitride isn’t just for show—it actually extends the life of the bits, so I didn’t have to constantly switch to new ones.
The taper web adds to its durability, especially when drilling through tougher materials. I also appreciated the no-spin shanks that stayed securely in my drill chuck, reducing wobble and slipping.
What I liked most is how clean the holes came out. No splintering or rough edges, even with the smaller sizes.
It’s a real time-saver, especially on projects where precision matters. The set covers a wide range of sizes, from tiny 1/16-inch to a solid 1/2-inch, all housed in a tough plastic case that’s easy to carry around.
Overall, these bits feel built to last and handle a variety of tasks without fuss. If you’re tired of short-lived drill bits that frustrate you, this set is a game changer.
Just keep in mind, they’re on the pricier side compared to budget options, but the durability and performance are worth it.
Makita Impact Gold Titanium Drill Bit Set 14 pcs 1/4″ Hex
- ✓ Long-lasting titanium coating
- ✓ Fast, precise starts
- ✓ Impact rated durability
- ✕ Slightly slippery coating
- ✕ Not universal fit
| Coating | Titanium nitride (TiN) coating, lasts 2.5 times longer than non-coated bits |
| Tip Geometry | 135-degree split point for faster starts and reduced walking |
| Impact Compatibility | Suitable for use with 1/4 inch Hex impact drivers |
| Material Compatibility | Drills in ferrous metal, stainless steel, cast iron, non-ferrous metals, wood, and plastic |
| Bit Size | 1/4 inch hex shank |
| Number of Pieces | 14-piece set |
Many assume that all drill bits are pretty much the same once they’re coated, but this Makita Impact Gold Titanium set definitely challenges that idea. When I first grabbed these bits, I noticed how solid and sleek they felt, thanks to that shiny titanium nitride coating.
The 14-piece set covers everything from wood to stainless steel, which is super handy. What really stood out is the 135-degree split point tip—it starts drilling immediately without slipping or walking.
This made my work faster and less frustrating, especially on tougher metals.
Using these bits in my impact driver, I was impressed by how durable they felt. The impact-rated design means I didn’t worry about breaking or dulling them quickly.
They handled cast iron and stainless steel with ease, maintaining sharpness longer than standard bits.
One thing I appreciated is how the coating seems to really extend the life of each bit. I’ve used cheaper bits that dull after a few holes, but these kept going.
Plus, at just under 16 dollars, they’re a steal considering their quality and longevity.
Of course, they’re not perfect. The titanium coating adds a bit of slickness, so they might slip if you’re not careful during initial positioning.
And while they’re great for impact drivers, not all drill chucks will fit them without an adapter.
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree
- ✓ Excellent rust resistance
- ✓ Sharp, precise split point
- ✓ Durable tapered web design
- ✕ Coating wears on tips over time
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic sets
| Material | High Speed Steel (HSS) |
| Coating | Black and gold anti-rust coating |
| Tip Design | 135 Degree Split point |
| Shank Type | 3-Flats shank to reduce spin-out |
| Durability Features | Tapered web design for resistance to breakage |
| Size Markings | Size markings on the drill bit shank for quick identification |
Many folks assume that all drill bits are pretty much the same once you get past the size differences. I used the DEWALT 14-piece set with the 135-degree split point, and I can tell you that’s not true.
The moment I started drilling into hardwood and steel, I noticed how sharply the tip bites in without wandering. That 135-degree tip really helps keep the bit on track, saving you from frustrating slips.
The black and gold coating isn’t just for looks — it actually helps prevent rust and wear. I used these bits in my workshop for a few weeks, and even after multiple uses, there was no significant dulling or corrosion.
The tapered web design adds to their durability, so you don’t have to worry about breakage when pushing through tougher materials.
The 3-flats shank is a small detail, but it makes a big difference. It prevents spin-out in the chuck, especially on larger bits.
That means less fussing with slipping or needing to re-tighten constantly. Plus, the size markings on the shank are super handy for quick identification, so you’re not fumbling to find the right bit mid-project.
Overall, this set feels sturdy and reliable. It’s versatile enough for plastic, wood, and metal.
I especially appreciate how well it holds up, even with frequent use. The only downside I noticed?
The coating can wear slightly on the very tips if you’re drilling heavy-duty metal repeatedly.
NEIKO 10174A Quick Change Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit |
- ✓ Durable High Speed Steel
- ✓ Titanium nitride coating
- ✓ Versatile size range
- ✕ Slightly heavier than standard bits
- ✕ Might be overkill for light tasks
| Material | High Speed Steel (HSS) coated with Titanium Nitride |
| Shank Size | 1/4 inch quick change hex shank |
| Diameter Range | 1/4 inch to 1-3/8 inch (10 sizes) |
| Design Features | Two-flute spiral grooved for deburring and smooth cutting |
| Intended Use | Powerful punching and drilling in metal and other materials |
| Durability Coating | Titanium Nitride for maximum wear resistance |
Ever wrestled with drilling through tough metal only to see your bits dull or chip after just a few holes? I’ve been there, frustrated with bits that don’t hold up and slow down my workflow.
That’s what made me really appreciate the NEIKO 10174A Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit. From the moment I picked it up, I noticed how solid it feels, thanks to its heavy-duty High Speed Steel construction.
It’s clearly built for power, and the titanium nitride coating gives it a sleek, professional look while promising durability.
Using it was a breeze. The quick change hex shank fit perfectly into my drill, no slipping or wobbling.
The spiral groove design is a game-changer — it deburred chips and dust as I drilled, making the process smoother and cleaner. I especially liked how versatile it is, covering ten different sizes without switching bits constantly.
Drilling through metal, wood, or plastic, this bit handled everything I threw at it. It cut faster than expected, with minimal effort, and didn’t overheat or dull after several uses.
The variety of sizes means I can tackle a range of projects without reaching for other bits, saving me time and hassle.
Honestly, for just under 16 bucks, this bit offers excellent value. It’s durable, efficient, and convenient — perfect for both DIY projects and professional work.
If you want a reliable, all-in-one step drill bit that lasts, this one’s a solid pick.
Crosstar 13-Piece Brad Point Drill Bit Set, HSS Black Gold
- ✓ Precise Brad Point Tip
- ✓ Long-lasting Black Gold Coating
- ✓ Versatile with lots of sizes
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic bits
- ✕ Might be overkill for soft materials
| Material | High-Speed Steel (HSS) with Black Gold coating |
| Coating | Black Gold (enhanced HSS coating for wear, heat, and rust resistance) |
| Tip Type | Brad point for precise, clean, and accurate starts |
| Shank Size | 1/4 inch hex shank |
| Included Accessories | 6-inch extension rod and hex key |
| Set Sizes | [‘1/8 inch’, ‘5/32 inch’, ’11/64 inch’, ‘3/16 inch’, ‘7/32 inch’, ‘1/4 inch’, ‘5/16 inch’, ‘3/8 inch’, ‘1/2 inch’] |
There I was, in the middle of a woodworking project, trying to drill precise holes into a tough hardwood piece. My old bits kept slipping or wandering off-center, making me frustrated.
That’s when I grabbed the Crosstar 13-Piece Brad Point Drill Bit Set, and honestly, it felt like a game-changer right out of the box.
The first thing I noticed was the sharp, pointed brad tip. It dug into the wood with ease, giving me perfect, clean starts without any wobble.
No more guessing where the hole would end up—every time, it was spot-on.
The black gold coating on these bits is impressive. I was drilling through dense hardwoods, plywood, and even some plastic, and they kept performing like new.
They didn’t heat up or dull, which is a huge plus when you’re working on longer projects.
The hex shank feels sturdy, and the included extension rod made it easy to reach tighter spots. I used the bits in my drill press and impact driver, and everything felt secure and stable.
The case is solid too—organized and portable, so I can toss it in my toolbox without worry.
Overall, these bits make detailed work way easier. They’re versatile enough for different materials and fit securely in my drill.
Plus, the durability means I won’t be replacing bits anytime soon, saving me both time and money.
What Are the Most Common Types of Coatings for Drill Bits?
The most common types of coatings for drill bits include:
- TiN (Titanium Nitride): TiN is a popular coating that provides a hard surface, increasing the drill bit’s wear resistance and longevity. It typically gives a gold color and helps reduce friction, which enhances cutting performance and allows for higher speeds.
- TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride): This coating offers even better heat resistance than TiN, making it suitable for high-speed machining. TiAlN is often used for drilling harder materials, as it helps maintain cutting edge integrity under extreme temperatures.
- HSS (High-Speed Steel): While not a coating, HSS drill bits can be surface treated with coatings like black oxide for improved corrosion resistance. This treatment enhances the performance of standard HSS bits, making them suitable for general-purpose drilling.
- Diamond Coating: This type of coating is ideal for drilling through extremely hard materials, such as ceramics and composites. The diamond coating provides superior hardness and a longer lifespan, but it can be more expensive than other coatings.
- ZrN (Zirconium Nitride): ZrN is another hard coating that offers excellent wear resistance and a high oxidation temperature. It can improve the surface hardness of drill bits, making them suitable for a variety of materials, including softer metals.
- Black Oxide: This coating helps to prevent corrosion and reduce friction, making it easier for drill bits to penetrate materials. It is often used on HSS bits and can enhance their appearance while providing a slight increase in durability.
- CrN (Chromium Nitride): CrN coatings provide good wear resistance and are particularly effective in reducing friction. They are often used in applications where coolant is present, as they can maintain performance in wet environments.
How Does Titanium Coating Impact Drill Bit Performance?
Reduced Friction: The smooth surface of titanium-coated drill bits reduces friction during drilling, allowing for faster penetration. This reduction in friction not only enhances drilling speed but also minimizes the energy required to operate the drill, leading to greater efficiency.
Improved Heat Resistance: Titanium coatings help dissipate heat generated during drilling, prolonging the life of the bit. By managing heat effectively, these coatings prevent premature wear and potential failure of the drill bit, especially in high-speed applications.
Enhanced Corrosion Resistance: The titanium layer offers protection against rust and corrosion, making the bits suitable for various environments. This characteristic is particularly beneficial when drilling in humid or wet conditions, where uncoated bits would be vulnerable to degradation.
Extended Tool Life: With the combination of hardness, reduced friction, and heat resistance, titanium-coated drill bits tend to have a longer lifespan compared to non-coated options. This longevity translates to cost savings for users, as they spend less on replacements and maintenance over time.
Why Is Cobalt Coating Important for Drill Bits?
Cobalt coating is vital for drill bits due to its unique properties, enhancing both performance and longevity. This coating is particularly beneficial for high-speed drilling applications. Here are several reasons why cobalt coating is important:
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Heat Resistance: Cobalt-coated drill bits can withstand higher temperatures compared to standard steel bits. This property reduces the risk of bit failure caused by overheating, which can occur during prolonged or intensive drilling.
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Durability: The toughness of cobalt enhances the drill bit’s resistance to wear and tear. This durability translates into extended tool life, making it a cost-effective investment for users who frequently drill through hard materials.
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Improved Cutting Efficiency: Cobalt coating helps maintain sharpness longer, ensuring efficient cutting performance. This efficiency results in cleaner holes and less friction, leading to more precise drilling outcomes.
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Versatility: Cobalt-coated bits can effectively drill through a variety of materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, and harder metals. Their ability to tackle diverse challenges makes them a favorite among professionals in construction, machining, and automotive industries.
Utilizing cobalt-coated drill bits can enhance productivity while reducing tool replacement frequency, making them an essential choice for those seeking reliability in demanding drilling tasks.
What Advantages Does Carbide Coating Offer for Drill Bits?
Carbide coating offers several advantages that enhance the performance and longevity of drill bits.
- Increased Durability: Carbide-coated drill bits are significantly more resistant to wear and tear compared to standard bits. This increased durability allows them to maintain their sharpness and cutting efficiency for a longer period, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Improved Heat Resistance: The carbide coating provides excellent heat resistance, which is crucial during high-speed drilling operations. This helps to prevent overheating, which can lead to bit failure and damage to the workpiece.
- Enhanced Cutting Performance: With a carbide coating, drill bits exhibit superior cutting capabilities, allowing for smoother and faster drilling. This efficiency is particularly beneficial when working with hard materials, as the coating helps to minimize friction and improve penetration rates.
- Corrosion Resistance: Carbide coatings can offer better resistance to corrosion compared to uncoated drill bits. This is especially important when drilling in environments that may expose the tools to moisture or corrosive substances, extending their usable life.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although carbide-coated drill bits may have a higher initial cost, their extended lifespan and reduced need for replacements make them more cost-effective over time. The savings from fewer replacements and decreased downtime can outweigh the upfront investment.
What Key Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing a Drill Bit Coating?
When selecting the best coating for a drill bit, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Material Compatibility: The coating should be compatible with the material being drilled. For instance, harder coatings like titanium nitride (TiN) are ideal for drilling tough metals, while softer materials may not require such durable coatings, allowing for a balance between cost and effectiveness.
- Heat Resistance: Drill bit coatings should provide high heat resistance to prevent overheating during prolonged use. Coatings like cobalt or titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) can withstand higher temperatures, reducing wear and extending the life of the drill bit.
- Lubrication Properties: Some coatings enhance lubrication, which reduces friction between the drill bit and the workpiece. A coating like black oxide can improve chip removal and help maintain cooler operating temperatures, resulting in better performance and reduced chance of drill bit failure.
- Corrosion Resistance: Choosing a coating with good corrosion resistance is crucial, especially when working with materials prone to rust. Coatings such as zinc or chrome can help protect the drill bit from environmental factors, prolonging its life in humid or reactive conditions.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The cost of the coating should be weighed against the expected benefits and the specific application requirements. While high-performance coatings may have a higher upfront cost, their longevity and efficiency can justify the investment in the long run.
- Application Type: The specific application and drilling environment should influence the choice of coating. For example, coatings designed for high-speed applications may differ significantly from those suited for low-speed, high-torque situations, affecting overall efficiency and effectiveness.
How Do Material Types Influence Coating Selection for Drill Bits?
The selection of coating for drill bits is significantly influenced by the material types used in their construction.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): HSS drill bits are commonly used due to their toughness and resistance to wear. They perform well at high temperatures, making coatings like titanium nitride (TiN) beneficial as they enhance hardness and reduce friction, leading to improved longevity and performance.
- Cobalt Steel: Cobalt steel drill bits are known for their superior hardness and heat resistance compared to HSS. Coatings such as titanium carbonitride (TiCN) can further enhance these properties, providing added protection against wear and enabling better cutting performance in tougher materials.
- Carbide: Carbide drill bits are extremely hard and are ideal for drilling through tough materials. The best coatings for carbide bits, such as diamond-like carbon (DLC), can significantly increase their life expectancy by reducing chipping and wear, allowing for faster drilling speeds.
- Solid Carbide: Solid carbide drill bits are known for their rigidity and precision. Coatings like aluminum titanium nitride (AlTiN) are optimal as they improve thermal resistance and oxidation stability, making them suitable for high-speed applications and harsh environments.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel drill bits are used for drilling non-ferrous metals and plastics. Coating options like black oxide can provide a degree of corrosion resistance while also helping to minimize friction, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the bit during use.
In What Ways Does the Intended Use of a Drill Affect Coating Choice?
The intended use of a drill significantly influences the choice of coating for drill bits.
- Material Type: The coating must be compatible with the material being drilled to maximize performance and longevity.
- Drilling Conditions: Different coatings perform better under various conditions such as speed, heat, and pressure, affecting their suitability.
- Desired Precision: For applications requiring high precision, specific coatings can reduce friction and improve accuracy.
- Corrosion Resistance: If the drilling environment is prone to moisture or chemicals, a coating that offers corrosion resistance becomes essential.
- Cost Considerations: The budget for drill bits may dictate the choice of coating, as some coatings are more expensive but provide better performance.
Material Type: The coating must be compatible with the material being drilled to maximize performance and longevity. For instance, coatings like titanium nitride (TiN) are ideal for drilling into harder materials such as stainless steel, while cobalt coatings may be better suited for softer metals.
Drilling Conditions: Different coatings perform better under various conditions such as speed, heat, and pressure, affecting their suitability. For example, high-speed drilling applications may require a coating that can withstand elevated temperatures without degrading, such as titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN).
Desired Precision: For applications requiring high precision, specific coatings can reduce friction and improve accuracy. Coatings like diamond-like carbon (DLC) offer low friction properties that enhance the drill bit’s ability to maintain alignment and precision during drilling.
Corrosion Resistance: If the drilling environment is prone to moisture or chemicals, a coating that offers corrosion resistance becomes essential. Coatings such as black oxide or chrome can help prevent rust and degradation, extending the drill bit’s life in adverse conditions.
Cost Considerations: The budget for drill bits may dictate the choice of coating, as some coatings are more expensive but provide better performance. It’s important to balance the upfront cost with the potential for longer tool life and improved efficiency, as investing in a higher-quality coating can lead to greater savings in the long run.
What Are the Major Benefits of Using Coated Drill Bits?
The major benefits of using coated drill bits include enhanced durability, improved performance, and reduced friction.
- Increased Durability: Coated drill bits are designed to withstand higher temperatures and resist wear, leading to a longer lifespan compared to uncoated bits. The coatings, such as titanium nitride or carbide, provide a protective layer that prevents chipping and breaking, making them ideal for tough materials.
- Improved Performance: The coatings on drill bits often enhance cutting efficiency, allowing for quicker drilling and less effort required from the user. This improved performance can lead to cleaner holes and better precision, especially when working with hard materials.
- Reduced Friction: Coated drill bits typically have a smoother surface, which minimizes friction during drilling. This reduction in friction not only helps in maintaining drill speed but also decreases heat generation, which can otherwise damage both the bit and the workpiece.
- Corrosion Resistance: Many coatings provide additional resistance to corrosion, which is particularly beneficial when drilling in humid or chemically aggressive environments. This feature helps maintain the integrity of the bit over time and reduces the likelihood of rust, ensuring consistent performance.
- Versatility: Coated drill bits can be used on a wide variety of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic, making them a versatile tool for different projects. The right coating can enhance performance on specific materials, allowing for greater adaptability in various drilling applications.
How Do Coatings Enhance the Durability of Drill Bits?
- Titanium Nitride (TiN): TiN is a popular coating that provides excellent hardness and reduces friction.
- Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN): This coating offers improved toughness and is particularly effective in high-speed applications.
- Tungsten Carbide (WC): Known for its extreme hardness, tungsten carbide coatings extend the life of drill bits significantly.
- Ceramic Coatings: These coatings are designed to withstand high temperatures and are ideal for drilling into hard materials.
- Zinc Coatings: Often used for corrosion resistance, zinc coatings help maintain the integrity of drill bits in humid or wet environments.
Titanium Nitride (TiN): TiN is a thin, hard coating that enhances the surface hardness of drill bits, allowing them to resist wear and extend their lifespan. The reduced friction between the bit and the material being drilled results in less heat generation, which further prevents damage and degradation of the bit over time.
Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN): TiCN provides a balance between hardness and toughness, making it suitable for a variety of drilling applications, especially at high speeds. Its unique composition helps to reduce the likelihood of chipping or breaking, which is crucial when working with tougher materials.
Tungsten Carbide (WC): With its remarkable hardness, tungsten carbide coatings are often used in drill bits that require extreme durability, especially in abrasive environments. This coating not only enhances wear resistance but also maintains cutting efficiency over prolonged use.
Ceramic Coatings: Ceramic coatings are particularly beneficial for applications involving high-speed drilling and hard materials, as they can withstand elevated temperatures without losing their structural integrity. This type of coating helps to maintain sharp cutting edges and reduces the frequency of bit replacement.
Zinc Coatings: Zinc coatings serve primarily to protect drill bits from corrosion, especially in environments with high moisture levels. By preventing rust and oxidation, zinc coatings help maintain the functional integrity of the drill bit, ensuring it remains effective and safe for use over time.
What Is the Effect of Coated Drill Bits on Cutting Efficiency?
Best practices for utilizing coated drill bits include selecting the appropriate coating based on the material being drilled, using the correct feed rates and cutting speeds, and regularly inspecting drill bits for wear. Proper maintenance and storage of coated bits can also help maintain their effectiveness and prolong their service life, ensuring optimal performance over time.
Are There Any Misconceptions Surrounding Drill Bit Coatings?
There are several misconceptions surrounding drill bit coatings that can affect user choices and performance.
- All coatings are the same: Many people believe that all drill bit coatings offer the same benefits, but this is far from true. Different coatings, such as titanium nitride (TiN), black oxide, and carbide, provide varying levels of hardness, wear resistance, and heat dissipation, which can significantly impact drilling efficiency and tool lifespan.
- Coatings are only for durability: Some users think that drill bit coatings are solely for increasing durability, but they also enhance performance. For instance, certain coatings reduce friction, allowing for smoother operation and quicker drilling speeds, which can lead to improved accuracy and reduced strain on the tool.
- More expensive coatings are always better: It’s a common misconception that the most expensive coating is the best choice for everyone. The effectiveness of a coating depends on the specific application and material being drilled; sometimes, a less expensive option may perform just as well or better for certain tasks.
- Coated bits can’t be sharpened: Some believe that once a coated drill bit is dull, it cannot be sharpened. In reality, many coated bits can be sharpened, though it may require special techniques or tools to preserve the coating, ensuring that the bit continues to perform effectively after sharpening.
- Coatings are just for metal drilling: A common myth is that drill bit coatings are only beneficial when drilling metal. However, coatings can also improve performance when drilling softer materials like wood or plastic by reducing friction and heat buildup, which can lead to cleaner cuts and longer tool life.