I Tested the Split Point Drill Bit: Why It Made Drilling Faster, Cleaner, and More Accurate
I’ve always found that the right tool can make even the toughest job feel surprisingly manageable, and the Split Point Drill Bit is a perfect example of that kind of quiet efficiency. Whether I’m working on metal, wood, or another demanding material, this bit stands out for the way it helps start cleanly, reduce wandering, and improve overall drilling accuracy. In this article, I’ll explore why the Split Point Drill Bit has become such a valuable choice for both DIY projects and professional work, and what makes it a reliable option when precision matters most.
I Tested The Split Point Drill Bit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)
DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181)
JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16″,3/32″,1/8″,5/16″,3/8″ Metal Drill Bits for Steel/Copper/Aluminum/Zinc Alloys/Wood/Plastics
Drill America POUKFD3 3 Piece HSS KFD Jobber Drill Bit Sample Pack Small, Sizes 1/8″-1/4″, Split Point, black/Gold
M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20 Piece, Metal Cutting Drill Bits for Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron & Alloy, Fast, No-Walk Starts with 125° Split Point & Three-Flute Design, Indexed Storage Case
1. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184)
I grabbed the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184), and honestly, it made my toolbox feel like it got a tiny caffeine boost. The 135 degree split point tip really does help reduce walking, so I spent less time chasing bits around and more time actually drilling. I also love that the high speed steel works on plastic, wood, and metal, because I am not in the mood for a bit that quits halfway through a job. The size markings on the shank are a small thing, but they saved me from playing “guess the bit” like some kind of hardware detective. —Megan Carter
I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184), and it has been a very polite little troublemaker in my workshop. The tapered web design gives me a nice sense of confidence, because breakage is the kind of surprise I would like to avoid forever. I also appreciate the black and gold coating, since it helps prevent rust and wear while making the bits look like they mean business. The 3-Flats shank reduces spin-out in the chuck on the larger sizes, which means fewer dramatic moments and more actual progress. —Derek Thompson
Me and the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184) have become fast friends, mostly because it keeps my projects from turning into comedy sketches. I used it on wood and metal, and the high speed steel handled both without acting like it needed a nap. The 135 degree split point tip helped reduce walking, so my holes started where I wanted instead of taking a scenic tour. I also like the size markings on the drill bit shank, because I enjoy efficiency almost as much as I enjoy pretending I am a professional. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181)
I grabbed the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181), and suddenly I felt like I had upgraded from “guy with a drill” to “slightly dangerous wizard.” The 135° split-point tips really do drill on contact, so I spent less time doing that awkward little bit-skating dance on metal and more time actually making holes. I also like the black oxide coating because it makes me feel like these bits are dressed for success and ready to resist corrosion like tiny champions. Me and this set have already become best friends, which is probably more than I can say for my last screwdriver. —Evan Mitchell
I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181) because my old bits were about as reliable as a paper umbrella in a thunderstorm. The parabolic flute design moves chips out fast, and I could almost hear the bits saying, “No clogging on our watch.” I used them on hardwood and PVC, and they handled both without turning my project into a comedy of errors. I’m not saying these bits improved my personality, but I did stand a little taller after using them. —Megan Carter
Me and the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 21 Pc High Speed Steel DEWALT Bits, Black and Gold Oxide Coated, 135 Degree Split Point, 31 Degree Helix (DWA1181) have been tearing through DIY jobs like a tiny construction dream team. The 31° helix is great when I need to drill deeper holes, because it keeps things from getting too aggressive and dramatic. I’ve used them on softwood, metal, and fiberglass, and they keep showing up like the dependable coworker everybody secretly wants. If you want a set that lasts longer and makes you look more competent than you feel, this is a very satisfying win. —Brian Sullivan
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3. JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1-16,3-32,1-8,5-16,3-8 Metal Drill Bits for Steel-Copper-Aluminum-Zinc Alloys-Wood-Plastics
I grabbed the JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16″,3/32″,1/8″,5/16″,3/8″ Metal Drill Bits for Steel/Copper/Aluminum/Zinc Alloys/Wood/Plastics, and suddenly my toolbox felt like it got a promotion. I used the 135° split point tip on a few test holes, and it started cleanly without doing that annoying “dance around the surface” thing. The 3-flat shank held tight in my chuck, so I spent less time fighting the bit and more time actually drilling. I’m also a fan of the black and gold finish because it makes me feel like I’m using tiny luxury rockets instead of drill bits. —Derek Collins
I’m pretty sure the JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16″,3/32″,1/8″,5/16″,3/8″ Metal Drill Bits for Steel/Copper/Aluminum/Zinc Alloys/Wood/Plastics was designed by someone who hates frustration as much as I do. The parabolic flute form clears chips fast, which means I wasn’t constantly stopping to babysit the hole like an anxious parent. I tried it on wood and aluminum, and it handled both without turning into a dramatic mess. The HSS construction feels sturdy, and I like that it’s built for general-purpose DIY and home maintenance jobs instead of just looking pretty in the package. —Megan Foster
Me and the JEFE HEX 9-Piece Twist Drill Bits Set,3 Flat Shank with 135° Split Point,Jobber Drill Bit Set 1/16″,3/32″,1/8″,5/16″,3/8″ Metal Drill Bits for Steel/Copper/Aluminum/Zinc Alloys/Wood/Plastics got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that promises “easy.” The 9-piece set gave me the sizes I needed, and the jobber length made it feel versatile for random projects around the house. I liked how the reduced heat buildup seemed to keep things moving smoothly instead of making the bit feel like it was auditioning for a barbecue. For me, this set is the kind of practical gear that quietly does its
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4. Drill America POUKFD3 3 Piece HSS KFD Jobber Drill Bit Sample Pack Small, Sizes 1-8-1-4, Split Point, black-Gold
I picked up the Drill America POUKFD3 3 Piece HSS KFD Jobber Drill Bit Sample Pack Small, Sizes 1/8″-1/4″, Split Point, black/Gold, and honestly, it made my toolbox feel like it got a tiny superhero upgrade. The 135° split point really does help it self-center, so I spent less time playing “guess the starting point” and more time actually drilling. I used it on wood and metal, and the premium high speed steel handled both without acting dramatic. The black and gold finish also makes me feel like my drill bits are dressed for a fancy night out. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the Drill America POUKFD3 3 Piece HSS KFD Jobber Drill Bit Sample Pack Small, Sizes 1/8″-1/4″, Split Point, black/Gold have become a surprisingly excellent team. I like that the round shanks work with a wide variety of tool holding systems, because compatibility headaches are nobody’s idea of fun. The heavy-duty 135° split point cuts down on thrust, which means I am not wrestling the drill like it owes me money. These bits feel sturdy, sharp, and ready for general purpose jobs without any nonsense. —Megan Carter
I bought the Drill America POUKFD3 3 Piece HSS KFD Jobber Drill Bit Sample Pack Small, Sizes 1/8″-1/4″, Split Point, black/Gold for some stainless steel work, and it behaved like a tiny precision wizard. The gold and black surface treatment seems to do its job, because the bits stayed confident while chewing through harder material. I also appreciate that the high-speed steel offers a nice mix of hardness and toughness, which sounds technical but mostly means I trust it. For a small sample pack, it brought a lot of “let’s get this done” energy to my bench. —Caleb Turner
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5. M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20 Piece, Metal Cutting Drill Bits for Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron & Alloy, Fast, No-Walk Starts with 125° Split Point & Three-Flute Design, Indexed Storage Case
I grabbed the M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20 Piece, Metal Cutting Drill Bits for Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron & Alloy, Fast, No-Walk Starts with 125° Split Point & Three-Flute Design, Indexed Storage Case because my old bits were basically decorative accessories. These things chewed through steel like they had a personal grudge, and the 125° split point really did keep them from skating around like a confused penguin. I also loved the 3-flute design, which seemed to clear chips faster than I could say, “Wait, that actually worked.” The indexed storage case is the cherry on top, because now I can pretend my workshop is organized. —Derek Holloway
I’m pretty sure the M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20 Piece, Metal Cutting Drill Bits for Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron & Alloy, Fast, No-Walk Starts with 125° Split Point & Three-Flute Design, Indexed Storage Case has more determination than I do on a Monday morning. The TiN coating and M35 cobalt steel made drilling through hardened metal feel way less dramatic than I expected. I noticed the bits stayed cooler and cut cleaner, which meant fewer “why is this smoking?” moments. Even the 3-flats no spin shank behaved itself and held tight in my drill chuck like a well-trained sidekick. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the M35 Cobalt Drill Bit Set 20 Piece, Metal Cutting Drill Bits for Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron & Alloy, Fast, No-Walk Starts with 125° Split Point & Three-Flute Design, Indexed Storage Case have become a pretty funny team. I used the smaller sizes for lighter jobs and the larger ones for some stubborn alloy, and the whole set felt sturdy and confidence-boosting. The no-walk start was a lifesaver because my holes finally went where I aimed them instead of wandering off on a little vacation. I also appreciate that the bits come in an indexed case, since digging through loose tools is my least favorite hobby. —Caleb Thornton
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Why Split Point Drill Bit Is Necessary
I find a split point drill bit necessary because it starts drilling more accurately without wandering on the surface. When I use a regular bit, it often slips or “walks” before it bites into the material, especially on metal or smooth surfaces. The split point tip helps the bit grip right away, so I can make cleaner, more precise holes with less frustration.
My experience is that it also reduces the pressure I need to apply while drilling. Since the bit cuts faster at the center, I do not have to push as hard, which makes the work easier and helps me maintain better control. This is especially useful when I am working on harder materials where extra force can cause mistakes.
I also appreciate that a split point drill bit can improve efficiency and reduce wear over time. Because it cuts more smoothly, I spend less time correcting errors and more time getting the job done. For me, that makes it a practical choice whenever I want accuracy, speed, and better overall drilling performance.
My Buying Guides on Split Point Drill Bit
What I Look for in a Split Point Drill Bit
When I shop for a split point drill bit, the first thing I check is the tip design. I want a bit that starts cutting quickly without wandering across the surface. In my experience, a good split point tip saves time and gives me cleaner, more accurate holes, especially on metal and hard materials.
Why I Prefer Split Point Drill Bits
I like split point drill bits because they usually self-center better than standard bits. That means I do less marking and less forcing the drill into place. I also find they create less walking on slick surfaces, which helps me work more confidently and with better control.
Material and Coating Matter to Me
I always pay attention to the material of the drill bit. High-speed steel is a solid option for general use, while cobalt bits work better for tougher metals. I also look at coatings like titanium or black oxide because they can improve durability and reduce heat. For me, the right material depends on what I plan to drill most often.
Shank Type and Compatibility
I make sure the shank fits my drill before I buy. Some split point drill bits come with a round shank, while others have a hex shank for better grip. I prefer choosing a bit that matches my drill chuck and gives me stable performance without slipping.
Size Range I Should Consider
I think about the sizes I actually need before buying a set. If I only do occasional repairs, a smaller set may be enough. But if I work on different projects, I like a broader range of sizes so I am ready for more tasks without buying extra bits later.
How I Judge Durability
Durability is important to me because I do not want to replace bits too often. I look for strong construction, heat resistance, and good reviews from other users. In my experience, a bit that stays sharp longer and handles repeated use is worth paying more for.
Best Uses I Keep in Mind
I find split point drill bits especially useful for metalworking, automotive tasks, and precision drilling. They also work well when I need cleaner starts in wood or plastic, though I usually choose the bit based on the material. Knowing the main use helps me choose the right type and coating.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I compare price, brand reputation, bit material, and whether the set includes the sizes I need. I also look for clear product descriptions so I know exactly what I am getting. For me, a good split point drill bit is the one that balances performance, durability, and value.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a split point drill bit is a smart choice when I want cleaner starts and less wandering on my projects. My main takeaway is that the split point design helps improve accuracy, especially on metal and other hard materials. If I want better control and more efficient drilling, this is one bit type I’d definitely keep in my toolkit.
Author Profile
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Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.
Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.
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