Best Drill Bits For Drilling Metal (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best drill bits for drilling metal, then you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right drill bits can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the various types of drill bits available in the market. But with the right information, you can make a well-informed decision that guarantees you superior performance, durability, and value for your money.
Before buying drill bits for drilling metal, readers need to consider several factors. The most important factor is the material composition of the drill bits. High-speed steel (HSS) drill bits are the most popular type used for drilling metal, followed closely by cobalt and titanium drill bits. Other factors to consider include the size of the drill bits, the shank size, and the flutes of the bit.
Are you tired of using low-quality drill bits that break easily? Do you want to get the most out of your drilling experience? If so, then you need to ask yourself some questions. How long do you anticipate your drill bits to last? What is your budget for purchasing drill bits? Are you looking for a set of drill bits or individual bits? Answering these questions will help you identify your needs and choose the best drill bits for drilling metal that meets your requirements.
In summary, choosing the best drill bits for drilling metal can be a hassle, but it’s worth investing in a high-quality set that guarantees superior performance and durability. Make sure to consider the material composition, size, shank size, and flutes of the drill bits. Answering the right questions will help you identify your needs and choose the best option that meets your requirements.
10 Best Drill Bits For Drilling Metal
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Ideal for sheet metal hole drilling and cutting, DIY enthusiasts, and electricians seeking precision and versatility in hole sizes.
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2
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This product is ideal for drilling holes in plastic, wood, and metal with its 135 degree split point and black oxide coating.
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3
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Ideal for drilling hard metals and stainless steel with its cobalt steel material and jobber length design.
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4
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The product is ideal for drilling through metal with quick change chucks and drives, utilizing M2 high speed steel.
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5
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This product is ideal for drilling large holes in steel with reduced shank drill press bits ranging from 9/16" to 1".
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6
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The product is ideal for drilling in plastic, wood, and metal with its 135 degree split point design.
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7
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Ideal for drilling into plastic, wood and metal with precision and durability.
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8
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Ideal for drilling in various materials such as wood, cast iron, aluminum alloy, plastic and fiberglass, with a wide range of sizes.
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9
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Ideal for heavy-duty drilling tasks with high speed steel bits and black/gold finish, ranging from 1/16" to 1/2".
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10
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Ideal for drilling large holes in metals, plastic, and wood materials.
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1. Zelcan Titanium Step Drill Bit Set.
Introducing the Durable HSS Drill Bit, a versatile tool that can easily cut through a variety of sheet metals with ease. Made with high-speed steel, this drill bit is built to last longer than others. Its titanium coating provides excellent heat, corrosion, and rust resistance, ensuring that it will perform well even after prolonged use.
The Durable HSS Drill Bit features a revolutionary design that includes a tri-flatted shank that fits securely into power tool chucks, eliminating slip while in use. Its two-flute design clears chips faster, allowing particles to escape easily. This design ensures that the drill bit stays clean while drilling, automatically deburring holes as it goes.
This set includes 10 step sizes, ranging from 1/4" to 1-3/8", making it the perfect tool for a variety of jobs. It is ideal for home repairs and light jobs, such as drilling holes in plastic, aluminum, copper, and other types of sheet metal (excluding steel or any other harder metal).
The Durable HSS Drill Bit is a must-have for handymen and professionals alike. It is perfect for those who need a reliable tool for everyday use. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, this drill bit set is an essential addition to your toolkit.
2. Precision Power Bit Set For Any Material
The DEWALT 21-pack black oxide twist drill bit set is an exceptional choice for individuals in search of a versatile and reliable drill bit set that can handle general-purpose drilling applications. This set is suitable for drilling through an array of materials, including metal, hardwood, softwood, PVC, and fiberglass.
Featuring a parabolic flute design, this drill bit set is designed to increase chip ejection in metal and wood drilling applications. Additionally, the black oxide coating on these drill bits helps to resist corrosion and increase durability, ensuring that your drill bits last longer.
The 135° Split-point tips on these drill bits are specially designed to drill on contact, preventing walking on the hard surface you’re working on. This feature is particularly useful when you need to make precise and accurate holes.
The 31° Helix on these drill bits reduces over aggressiveness of true parabolic flute, making it ideal for drilling deep holes. This design ensures that you have greater control over the drilling process, allowing you to achieve the desired hole depth with ease.
3. 1/8-Inch Cobalt Steel M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits For Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Pack Of 12
Introducing the Jobber Length Cobalt Drill Bit Set, a high-quality set of 12 pieces of 1/8-inch cobalt drill bits with a convenient case for storage. These drill bits are made from high-speed steel and 5% cobalt, which enhances their heat resistance and durability compared to typical HSS drill bits.
With a cutting diameter of 1/8-inch, a flute length of 1-5/8 inches, and an overall length of 2-3/4 inches, these drill bits are perfect for drilling in hard metals, including stainless steel. They feature a 135-degree split point and a straight shank, which ensures easy positioning and accurate drilling.
One of the most significant advantages of these cobalt drill bits is their uniform hardness throughout the entire material, which makes them ideal for repeated sharpening without damaging the cutting edge. This feature enables them to drill more efficiently than typical HSS drill bits.
Whether you're a professional mechanic, metalworker, or DIY enthusiast, this cobalt drill bit set is a must-have in your toolbox. It is perfect for drilling through hard metals and can also be used for woodworking and other drilling applications.
Investing in this Jobber Length Cobalt Drill Bit Set is an excellent decision for anyone who values quality and durability in their tools. With its high-performance cobalt steel construction and versatile application, it is sure to provide you with reliable and long-lasting service. Get your set today and experience the difference in your drilling projects!
4. Neiko Metal Stubby Bit Set: Quick-Change, High-Speed.
This 5-piece drill bit set is an essential addition to any handyman's toolkit. Each bit is carefully crafted with premium molybdenum M2 HSS, ensuring that they are resistant to wear and tear while maintaining the durability that lasts through every job. The evenly distributed carbides add an extra layer of protection to the bits, making them ideal for use on metals, plastics, and other hard surfaces.
The 135-degree standard tip design is another standout feature of this set. These tips allow for powerful penetration, making it easy to drill through even the toughest materials. The 1/4-inch hex shank on each bit is compatible with both standard and quick change chucks and drivers, providing versatility in all your drilling needs.
One of the most significant benefits of this set is its ability to work in difficult areas. Each stubby bit measures between 1.9 and 2.32 inches, making it easy to access hard-to-reach and tight spaces. Whether you are using a short or right-angle drill, these bits will make your job easier.
To make storage and organization a breeze, this set includes a hex shank holder and five different bit sizes: 3/32, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, and 5/16 inches. This comprehensive set ensures that you have the perfect bit for any job that comes your way.
5. Hiltex Jumbo Drill Bit Set: Industrial Power
Looking for a set of drill bits that can handle any material while leaving behind clean and precise results? Look no further than this 8-piece set made from high speed stainless steel. These metal drill bits for steel are designed to be sharp and fast, making them ideal for drilling through plastic, copper, stainless steel, and other surfaces.
Made from heat-treated carbon steel with a durable black enamel coating, these bits are built to withstand heavy-duty operation for a long tool life. And with a precision-ground geometry of 135-degree split point, these bits are designed for quick self-centering penetration and an accurate start that prevents walking and clears chips and particles faster.
If you're looking for drill press bits, these bits are a great choice. The tri-flat on the shanks of the drills are constructed for tighter chucking, maximizing security for precise holes. This pattern also allows the bits to fit securely into your power tools and helps eliminate slippage.
This drill bit set includes a complete set of 8 pieces that come in a convenient storage case for easy storage and portability. The sizes included are: 1/2" Shank x 9/16" Drill Bit, 5/8" Drill Bit, 11/16" Drill Bit, 3/4" Drill Bit, 13/16" Drill Bit, 7/8" Drill Bit, 15/16" Drill Bit, and 1" Drill Bit. With this comprehensive set, you'll have everything you need to tackle any drilling project with confidence.
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, this drill bit set is a must-have for anyone who needs precision and accuracy in their drilling projects. So why wait? Invest in this set today and get ready to take your drilling projects to the next level!
6. Dewalt Drill Bit Set, 14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, For Plastic, Wood And Metal (Dwa1184)
The product on offer is a set of high-quality drill bits that are designed to deliver superior performance and precision for a wide range of drilling applications. These bits feature a 135-degree split point tip design that helps reduce walking, ensuring that the bit stays centered and on target while drilling. This makes them ideal for use in plastic, wood, and metal.
Made from high-speed steel, these drill bits are built to last. They are extremely durable thanks to their tapered web design, which provides excellent resistance to breakage. Additionally, the black and gold coating on the bits helps prevent rust and wear, ensuring that they maintain their sharpness and effectiveness over time.
The 3-flats shank of these drill bits is designed to reduce spin-out in the chuck, providing better control and stability during drilling. This feature is especially useful when working with harder materials or drilling at higher speeds.
For added convenience, these drill bits come with size markings on the shank, making it easy to identify the size you need quickly. This saves time and hassle, especially when working on larger projects or when you need to switch between different sizes frequently.
7. Titanium Split Point Drill Set By Dewalt
Introducing the DEWALT Drill Bit Set- an innovative and efficient accessory storage system for your drill bits made for wood, metal, and plastic. With its connectable design, it optimizes storage space and keeps your drill bits organized.
The patented bit-bar design of the drill bits makes it easy to remove and customize their placement. With this design, there is no need to worry about misplacing your bits or struggling to remove them.
The clear lid of the storage system allows you to easily see the contents at a glance, making it quick and easy to find the drill bit you need. The set comes with a clip latch that ensures secure closing of the case, preventing the loss of your precious drill bits.
The small bulk storage size of the DEWALT Drill Bit Set fits inside the Small and Medium ToughCase Plus (sold separately), making it ideal for organizing loose bits. You can easily keep your drill bits together and avoid misplacing them, which is especially helpful when working on a project that requires multiple bits.
The patented web taper of the drill bits increases their rigidity, decreasing the potential for bit breakage. This feature ensures that you can work with confidence and that your drill bits will last longer.
The proprietary PILOT POINT tip of the drill bits delivers speed and clear, burr-free holes, which helps reduce bit walking. This feature ensures that you can work with precision and accuracy, producing clean and smooth holes every time.
The DEWALT Drill Bit Set is ideal for use on metal, wood, and plastic materials, making it a versatile accessory for any DIY or professional project. With its efficient storage system, patented designs, and high-quality materials, this set is a must-have for any drill enthusiast.
8. Titanium Twist Drill Set With Hard Storage
This drill bit set is a must-have for anyone who works with wood, cast iron, aluminum alloy, plastic, or fiberglass. Made from high-speed steel, these bits are designed for strength and durability. The titanium-coated surface prevents rusting and increases the hardness of the drill bit, reducing heat buildup and making the twist drill bit more wear-resistant for longer life.
The 32-piece set includes 3/64" bits, the 30-piece set includes 1/16" bits, the 30-piece set includes 5/64" bits, the 30-piece set includes 3/32" bits, the 20-piece set includes 1/8" bits, the 20-piece set includes 9/64" bits, the 12-piece set includes 5/32" bits, the 12-piece set includes 11/64" bits, the 12-piece set includes 3/16" bits, the 8-piece set includes 7/32" bits, the 4-piece set includes 15/64" bits, the 6-piece set includes 1/4" bits, the 4-piece set includes 9/32" bits, the 2-piece set includes 19/64" bits, the 3-piece set includes 5/16" bits, the 2-piece set includes 21/64" bits, the 1-piece set includes 23/64" bits, the 1-piece set includes 3/8" bits, and the 1-piece set includes 1/2" bits.
The 135° fast-cutting point is automatically centered and penetrates quickly with less pressure, making drilling faster and easier. The set comes in a plastic storage box for easy storage and transportation, ensuring that your drill bits are always organized and easy to find.
9. Powerful Precision: Drill America 29 Piece Set
This assortment of 29 jobber length drill bits is an excellent addition to any toolkit. The set includes inch sizes ranging from 1/16" to 1/2" in 1/64" increments, providing a wide variety of options for drilling needs.
Constructed of high-speed steel (HSS), these drill bits are highly durable and provide excellent wear resistance. The black and gold oxide finish not only adds a sleek look to the bits, but also resists corrosion and increases their hardness.
One of the standout features of these drill bits is their self-centering 135-degree split point. This design allows for easy penetration of hard materials without the need for a pilot hole, and produces small chips to reduce clogging.
The set comes in a convenient plastic storage case, making it easy to keep the drill bits organized and easily accessible.
10. Efficient Deming Drill Bit Set In Carry Case.
Introducing the Premium Cobalt High Speed Steel Drill Bit Set, a reliable and durable set of drill bits that is perfect for all your drilling needs. Its construction is made of premium cobalt high speed steel, which is known for its strength and durability, making it capable of drilling through wood, plastic, aluminum, copper, stainless steel, sheet metals, and many other types of materials.
What sets this drill bit set apart is its superior gold titanium and black nitride dual coating finish. This finish holds up lubricant better, ensuring smoother drilling and making it 80% more durable and corrosion-resistant than regular black enamel finish. The 135° split point design at the tip increases cutting speed, with a self-centering feature that prevents drill walking or wobbling.
The 1/2 inch reduced shank with tri-flatted end ensures that the drill bits lock onto 3-jaw power tools chuck more securely, eliminating slips and providing a more efficient drilling experience. This set includes 8 pieces 6” long silver & deming drill bits in a heavy-duty aluminum storage case for easy carrying and organization. The sizes included in the set are 9/16”, 5/8”, 11/16”, 3/4”, 13/16”, 7/8”, 15/16”, and 1”.
Investing in this premium cobalt high speed steel drill bit set means investing in a reliable, durable, and efficient tool that will make your drilling tasks a breeze. With the superior gold titanium and black nitride dual coating finish, 135° split point design, and 1/2 inch reduced shank with tri-flatted end, this set is a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional. Get yours today and experience the difference in quality and performance.
Best Drill Bits For Drilling Metal FAQs
Are diamond-coated drill bits worth the investment for metal drilling?
Diamond-coated drill bits are certainly an investment, but whether they are worth it for metal drilling depends on the specific application and the user's needs. Diamond-coated drill bits are designed to withstand high temperatures and are extremely hard, making them ideal for drilling through hard materials like metal. They also tend to last longer than traditional drill bits, reducing the need for frequent replacements and increasing efficiency.
However, diamond-coated drill bits can be significantly more expensive than traditional drill bits, and may not be necessary for all metal drilling applications. For softer metals, a traditional HSS (high-speed steel) drill bit may be sufficient. Additionally, if the user is not drilling through metal frequently or only needs to make a few holes, the cost of diamond-coated drill bits may not justify the investment.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in diamond-coated drill bits for metal drilling should be based on the specific needs and budget of the user. Consulting with a professional in the industry or conducting research on the best options for the specific application can help make an informed decision.
Can titanium drill bits handle high-speed metal drilling?
Yes, titanium drill bits are capable of handling high-speed metal drilling. Titanium drill bits are made from high-speed steel coated with titanium nitride. This coating increases the hardness and durability of the drill bit, making it capable of withstanding high-speed drilling and resisting wear and tear. The titanium coating also reduces the friction between the drill bit and the metal surface being drilled, which prevents overheating and prolongs the life of the drill bit.
It is important to note that the speed of drilling should be appropriate for the size and type of metal being drilled. Using the correct drilling speed will prevent the drill bit from overheating and breaking. Additionally, it is recommended to use a lubricant when drilling metal with titanium drill bits to further reduce friction and prolong the life of the drill bit.
Overall, titanium drill bits are a great choice for high-speed metal drilling due to their strength, durability, and reduced friction.
How do I choose the right size drill bit for metal drilling?
When it comes to drilling metal, choosing the right size drill bit is crucial for the success of your project. Below are some steps to help you choose the right size drill bit for metal drilling:
1. Determine the size of the hole needed: The first step is to determine the size of the hole needed. This will depend on the size of the screw or bolt that you will be using.
2. Check the material: Different types of metal require different types of drill bits. For example, softer metals like aluminum and copper require a different type of drill bit than harder metals like steel.
3. Check the drill bit size chart: Once you have determined the size of the hole needed and the material you will be drilling, consult a drill bit size chart to find the appropriate size drill bit for your project.
4. Start small and work your way up: If you are unsure of the exact size needed, start with a smaller drill bit and work your way up until you achieve the desired hole size.
Remember to always wear protective gear when drilling metal, including safety glasses and gloves. With the right tools and precautions, you can successfully drill metal for your project.
How long should drill bits last when drilling metal?
The lifespan of drill bits largely depends on several factors such as the material of the bit, the type of metal being drilled, the quality of the bit, and the drilling conditions. Generally, high-speed steel (HSS) drill bits can last for several hundred holes in soft metals such as aluminum, brass, and copper. However, when drilling harder metals such as stainless steel or hardened steel, the lifespan of the bit can significantly decrease to as few as 10-20 holes.
Using a lubricant or coolant while drilling can help to extend the lifespan of the bit. Additionally, proper drilling techniques such as using the appropriate speed and pressure can also help to prolong the life of the bit. It is important to note that once a bit becomes dull, it should be replaced to avoid damaging the workpiece or causing injury to the user. In summary, the lifespan of drill bits when drilling metal can vary greatly and is dependent on multiple factors, but proper maintenance and usage can help to extend their lifespan.
Is a cobalt drill bit the best choice for drilling hard metals?
Cobalt drill bits are often considered the best choice for drilling hard metals due to their excellent heat resistance and durability. Cobalt is a metal that has a high melting point, which allows it to withstand the high temperatures that are generated during drilling. This property of cobalt makes it an ideal material for drill bits that are used for drilling through tough materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, and other hard metals.
Cobalt drill bits are also known for their strength and longer lifespan. They are able to maintain their sharpness for longer periods of time, which means that they can drill more holes before needing to be replaced. The cobalt coating also helps to prevent the bit from overheating and becoming dull, which can lead to a decrease in performance.
Overall, if you are looking to drill through hard metals, a cobalt drill bit is definitely a great choice. It provides excellent durability, heat resistance, and long-lasting performance, making it a superior option to other types of drill bits.
What are the best drill bits for drilling through thick metal?
When it comes to drilling through thick metal, it's important to use high-quality drill bits that can handle the job without getting damaged or breaking. There are several types of drill bits that are well-suited for this task, including cobalt, carbide, and titanium nitride (TiN) coated bits.
Cobalt drill bits are made from high-speed steel with added cobalt, which makes them extremely durable and able to withstand high temperatures. They are ideal for drilling through tough materials like stainless steel and cast iron.
Carbide drill bits are made from tungsten carbide and are known for their incredible hardness and resistance to wear. They are particularly effective for drilling through hardened steel and other tough materials.
TiN coated drill bits have a thin layer of titanium nitride applied to the surface, which provides added strength and durability. They are ideal for drilling through stainless steel, aluminum, and other tough materials.
In summary, when drilling through thick metal, it's best to choose high-quality drill bits that are designed specifically for the task. Cobalt, carbide, and TiN coated bits are all great options that can help get the job done quickly and efficiently.
What features should I look for in a drill bit set for metal drilling?
When choosing a drill bit set for metal drilling, there are several features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best results.
Firstly, you should look for a set that includes a variety of sizes and shapes of drill bits. This will give you the flexibility to choose the right size and shape for each job, whether you're drilling a small hole or a larger one.
Secondly, you should consider the material from which the drill bits are made. High-speed steel (HSS) is a popular choice for metal drilling because it is strong, durable, and can withstand high temperatures. Cobalt drill bits are also a good option for drilling harder metals like stainless steel.
Thirdly, you should look for drill bits with a sharp, pointed tip. This will help you to drill precise, clean holes with minimal effort and reduce the risk of the drill bit slipping or wandering.
Finally, you should consider the design of the drill bits. Look for sets with split point tips, which help to reduce walking and improve accuracy, and sets with fluted shafts, which help to remove chips and debris from the hole as you drill.
By considering these features when choosing a drill bit set for metal drilling, you can ensure that you have the right tools for the job and achieve professional results.
What type of drill bits work best for drilling aluminum?
When it comes to drilling aluminum, it’s important to choose the right drill bit to ensure a clean and efficient job. When selecting a drill bit for aluminum, it’s best to go for high-speed steel (HSS) or cobalt drill bits. HSS drill bits are made from high-speed steel and are ideal for drilling soft metals like aluminum. They are less expensive than cobalt drill bits and can easily drill through aluminum sheets and plates. However, they may not be as durable as cobalt drill bits.
On the other hand, cobalt drill bits are made from a high-strength cobalt alloy that makes them harder and more durable than HSS drill bits. They can drill through harder metals like stainless steel and titanium, but they are also suitable for drilling aluminum. Cobalt drill bits also have a higher heat resistance, making them ideal for high-speed drilling applications. Ultimately, the choice between HSS and cobalt drill bits will depend on the specific project requirements and budget.
Which brand offers the best drill bits for drilling stainless steel?
When it comes to drilling stainless steel, it is important to use drill bits that are specifically designed for this material. One brand that consistently receives high marks for its stainless steel drill bits is DEWALT. Their Pilot Point drill bits are made from high-speed steel and feature a unique tip design that helps to prevent walking and improves accuracy. They also have a coating that helps to reduce friction and heat buildup, which can prolong the life of the bit. Another brand that is worth considering is Irwin Tools. Their Cobalt M-35 drill bits are made from a high-grade cobalt steel that is able to withstand the high temperatures and pressures associated with drilling stainless steel. They also have a 135-degree split point design that helps to reduce slipping and walking. Ultimately, the best drill bits for drilling stainless steel will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but DEWALT and Irwin Tools are both reputable brands that offer high-quality products.
Which drill bits are most durable for repetitive metal drilling?
When it comes to repetitive metal drilling, choosing the right drill bits is crucial to ensure maximum durability and efficiency. There are several types of drill bits available in the market, but the most durable ones for repetitive metal drilling are the cobalt drill bits and carbide drill bits.
Cobalt drill bits are made of high-speed steel with added cobalt content, which makes them more resistant to heat and wear than regular HSS bits. They are ideal for drilling through tough metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, and titanium, and are capable of withstanding high temperatures and extended use.
Carbide drill bits, on the other hand, are made of tungsten carbide, a material that is much harder than steel. They are highly durable and can last up to ten times longer than cobalt drill bits. They are also more effective in drilling through hard metals such as hardened steel and alloys.
In summary, both cobalt and carbide drill bits are excellent options for repetitive metal drilling. However, carbide drill bits are more expensive than cobalt drill bits but offer better durability and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific drilling needs and budget.
