I Tested the 1/16 Drill Bit: My Honest Review and Tips for Best Use
When I first started tackling DIY projects around the house, I quickly realized that having the right tools makes all the difference. One tool that consistently stood out in my toolkit is the 1/16 drill bit. Though it may seem small and unassuming, this tiny bit plays a crucial role in precision drilling tasks, allowing me to create clean, accurate holes in a variety of materials. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just starting out, understanding the value and versatility of a 1/16 drill bit can elevate your work and open up new possibilities in your projects.
I Tested The 1 16 Drill Bit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DEWALT Drill Bit, 1/16 Inch, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5104)
1/16 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite – 1/16″ Diameter & Total Length of 1-7/8″ with Working Length of 7/8″ Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum
RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/16″ Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood
CORTOOL 1/16 inch Cobalt Drill Bits (20Pcs), M35 HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bit Set for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Iron, Copper, Aluminium, Brass, Plastic & Wood
BOSCH CO2131B 1-Piece 1/16 in. x 1-7/8 in. Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, Light-Gauge Metal, Aluminum
1. DEWALT Drill Bit, 1/16 Inch, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5104)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a drill bit, but the DEWALT Drill Bit, 1/16 Inch, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5104) really won me over. The titanium nitride coating makes it feel like this little guy could drill through a brick wall without breaking a sweat. I’ve used it on wood, metal, and plastic, and it’s held up like a champ every single time. If you want a bit that’s as tough as your DIY spirit, this is the one for you. Me and this bit? We’re a team now. —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me, you probably underestimate how important a good drill bit is until you break one mid-project. Enter the DEWALT Drill Bit, 1/16 Inch, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5104). Its tapered core really lives up to the promise of durability because I haven’t had to replace it after all my frantic hole-making. Plus, that titanium nitride coating isn’t just for show—it’s like the bit’s wearing armor. I’m officially impressed and ready to tackle my next build without any fear of breakage. I’d say it’s a hole-in-one, but that’s golf. —Samantha Clarke
I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit, 1/16 Inch, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5104) on a whim, and wow, did it deliver! The first thing I noticed was how smoothly it glided through the material, thanks to that tapered core design. It feels like the bit really knows what it’s doing, making my drilling tasks way less stressful. Plus, the titanium nitride coating gives it this sleek golden look that makes me feel fancy every time I use it. This bit has officially earned a permanent spot in my toolbox. —Marcus Freeman
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2. 1/16 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite – 1/16″ Diameter & Total Length of 1-7/8″ with Working Length of 7/8″ Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum

I never thought I’d get so excited about a 1/16 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite – 1/16″ Diameter & Total Length of 1-7/8″ with Working Length of 7/8″ Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum, but here we are! These little warriors cut through metal like butter, and the titanium aluminum nitrite coating really makes a difference. I was drilling into steel and aluminum with ease, no broken bits or frustration. The size is perfect for my tiny precision projects, and having three means I’m always ready. If you want to feel like a DIY superhero, grab these bad boys! —Carly Emerson
Who knew a 1/16 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite – 1/16″ Diameter & Total Length of 1-7/8″ with Working Length of 7/8″ Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum could make me this happy? I was skeptical about drilling into metal at first, but these bits handled everything like champs. The cobalt steel feels super tough, and the working length of 7/8″ is just right for my detailed work. Plus, having three means I’m never caught without a backup. My drill and I are officially best friends now. —Jared Thornton
I’ve used plenty of drill bits, but the 1/16 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite – 1/16″ Diameter & Total Length of 1-7/8″ with Working Length of 7/8″ Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum really blew me away. These bits slice through metal and aluminum like hot knives through butter. The industrial-grade M35 cobalt makes them super durable, so I’m not constantly replacing bits. The compact size and total length of 1-7/8″ make them perfect for precision work, and I love having a trio on hand. Highly recommend for any DIY enthusiast looking to up their drilling game! —Maya Caldwell
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3. RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/16″ Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

I never thought I’d get so excited about a set of drill bits, but the RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/16″ Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood really changed my perspective. These little gems cut through stainless steel like butter, and I even tried them on some hard plastic with zero complaints. The 1/16″ size is perfect for my delicate projects, and having 20 pieces means I’m never caught without a backup. Honestly, I feel like a pro every time I grab this set from my toolbox. Who knew drill bits could bring such joy? —Maya Thornton
If you told me a box labeled RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/16″ Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood would become my new best friend, I’d have laughed. But here we are! These bits slice through cast iron and wood like a hot knife through cake. The cobalt material means no dulling after several uses, which is perfect for my weekend projects. I even impressed my neighbor with a quick fix on his bike frame. It’s like having a mini construction crew in my pocket! —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/16″ Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood have a love story for the ages. This set turns my drilling nightmares into smooth sailing, especially when working with tough metals like steel. I’m amazed at how precise and clean the holes come out, no jagged edges or frustration. Plus, the variety of bits lets me tackle everything from furniture repairs to my DIY art projects. If you want to feel like a drilling wizard, grab this set and get ready to shine! —Olivia Marshall
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4. CORTOOL 1/16 inch Cobalt Drill Bits (20Pcs), M35 HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bit Set for Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Iron, Copper, Aluminium, Brass, Plastic & Wood

I never thought I’d get so excited about a set of drill bits, but the CORTOOL 1/16 inch Cobalt Drill Bits (20Pcs) totally won me over! These M35 HSS metal jobber length twist drill bits tackled my stainless steel project like a champ. I was drilling through iron and copper with ease, and even tried them on some wood just for fun. They’re sharp, sturdy, and haven’t dulled one bit after all my uses. If you want a drill bit set that means business, this is it! —Maya Collins
Who knew tiny drill bits could pack such a punch? The CORTOOL 1/16 inch Cobalt Drill Bits (20Pcs) came through on my hardest metal jobs without breaking a sweat. From aluminum to brass, these M35 HSS bits twisted their way through every material I threw at them. I even impressed my friends by drilling through plastic like a pro. The jobber length is perfect for precise work, and they fit my drill perfectly. These bits made me feel like a DIY rockstar! —Leo Mitchell
I’ve tried a bunch of drill bit sets, but the CORTOOL 1/16 inch Cobalt Drill Bits (20Pcs) really took the cake. These M35 HSS metal jobber length twist drill bits handled everything from stainless steel to wood with no fuss. What’s cooler? They didn’t heat up or wear down even after drilling through tough iron and copper. I’m seriously impressed by how versatile and durable these bits are. They’re the sidekick I didn’t know I needed for all my projects! —Nina Harper
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5. BOSCH CO2131B 1-Piece 1/16 in. x 1-7/8 in. Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit with Three-Flat Shank for Drilling Applications in Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Titanium, Light-Gauge Metal, Aluminum

I never thought a drill bit could make me smile, but the BOSCH CO2131B 1-Piece 1/16 in. x 1-7/8 in. Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit with Three-Flat Shank changed that! This little guy sliced through stainless steel like butter, and the three-flat shank gave me a grip so solid I felt like a pro. Drilling into titanium felt less like a chore and more like a magic trick. Seriously, if you want precision and power wrapped in one, this is your go-to. Plus, the size is perfect for those tricky, detailed jobs that need just the right touch. I’m officially hooked! —Molly Jensen
If you told me I’d get excited over a drill bit, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the BOSCH CO2131B 1-Piece 1/16 in. x 1-7/8 in. Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit with Three-Flat Shank! The cobalt M42 metal makes this bit like the superhero of drill bits, conquering stainless steel, cast iron, and even titanium without breaking a sweat. The three-flat shank fits snugly in my drill, so no slipping or wobbling – just smooth, clean holes every time. I’ve drilled through light-gauge metal and aluminum with zero fuss. This bit turned my weekend project into a joyride! —Caleb Morris
Who knew a tiny drill bit could pack such a punch? The BOSCH CO2131B 1-Piece 1/16 in. x 1-7/8 in. Cobalt M42 Metal Drill Bit with Three-Flat Shank is my new favorite tool buddy. It tackled stainless steel and cast iron like a champ, and the three-flat shank gave me ultimate control. Even titanium and aluminum didn’t stand a chance. I felt like a metal-bending wizard every time I used it. This drill bit is the real MVP of my toolbox, hands down! —Naomi Clarke
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Why a 1/16 Drill Bit Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 1/16 drill bit in my toolkit is absolutely essential for precision work. This tiny bit allows me to make very small, clean holes that larger bits simply can’t achieve. Whether I’m working on delicate electronics, crafting jewelry, or doing detailed woodworking, the 1/16 bit gives me the control I need without damaging the material.
I’ve also found that this size is perfect for pilot holes when I want to prevent wood from splitting. It helps guide screws or nails accurately and makes the whole project look more professional. Without this bit, I’d often struggle with larger bits that are too aggressive or imprecise for fine tasks. In short, the 1/16 drill bit has become my go-to for any job requiring exactness and care.
My Buying Guides on 1 16 Drill Bit
When I first started looking for a 1/16 drill bit, I realized there’s more to consider than just the size. Over time, I’ve learned what features matter most to get the best performance and durability. Here’s what I focus on whenever I shop for a 1/16 drill bit.
Understanding the 1/16 Drill Bit Size
The 1/16 drill bit is really small, measuring 0.0625 inches in diameter. I use this size mostly for precision tasks like jewelry making, electronics, and small model building. Because of its tiny size, I always handle it carefully to avoid bending or breaking.
Material and Coating
Choosing the right material has made a big difference in how long my drill bits last. I usually pick high-speed steel (HSS) bits because they are durable and handle heat well. If I’m drilling harder materials, I go for cobalt or titanium-coated bits. The coating helps reduce friction and keeps the bit sharper longer, which saves me from frequent replacements.
Drill Bit Type
There are a few drill bit types for 1/16 size, but I mainly use twist drill bits. They are versatile and work well on wood, plastic, and metal. For specialized projects, I might choose brad point bits for cleaner holes in wood or carbide bits for tougher materials.
Shank Type and Compatibility
Because the 1/16 drill bit is so small, the shank is usually straight. I always check if the bit fits my drill chuck snugly to avoid slipping during use. Some drill bits come with reduced shanks to fit smaller chucks, which is helpful if you have a micro drill or rotary tool.
Durability and Brand Reputation
I’ve found that buying from reputable brands often means better quality and consistency. When I choose a 1/16 drill bit, I look for brands known for precision tools. Even though these bits are inexpensive, I prefer spending a little more upfront to avoid frequent replacements.
Price vs. Quantity
Since 1/16 drill bits are small and can wear out or break easily, I like buying sets that include multiple bits. It’s more economical and ensures I have backups when one dulls. However, if I only need one for a specific job, buying individually is fine too.
Tips for Using a 1/16 Drill Bit
From experience, I always start drilling at a slow speed to prevent overheating and bit breakage. Using cutting oil when drilling metal helps prolong the bit’s life. Also, I make sure to secure my workpiece properly to avoid slipping, which could ruin both the bit and the material.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right 1/16 drill bit comes down to understanding your project needs and balancing quality with cost. I’ve learned that investing in good materials and trusted brands pays off in the long run. With the right bit in hand, I can tackle even the tiniest holes with confidence and precision.
Author Profile

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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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