I’d like to have one good set of drill bits for drilling steel. So far I’ve seen recommendations for M42 bits. Does anyone have a preference for brands or any other suggestions on M35 vs M42 bits?
M35 and M42 drill bits
- Thread starter Snagglefoot
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As I understand it m42 is harder, but more brittle and prone to breaking.
If it is for cordless or powered hand drills tools M35 for a drill press M42.
Good to know! Thanks!
Like you said M42 is harder and more brittle they will snap with just a small amount of flexing, M35 are a bit more tolerant of flex and still hard enough to handle hardened metals. A good HSS set will do most jobs just fine and are easier to sharpen. Carbide drills are super hard and not the best for a drill press either they are better in a lathe, they will not tolerate the slightest amount flex without shattering.
I searched Amazon and found Bosch M42 bits but could not find Bosch M35. However I found these Bosch CO21 bits. Any idea what they are about?
I believe they are M41 just a 21 piece set. You can use M42 but using the smaller sizes can be hairy. I had to drill out some grade12.9 studs and needed M42, I broke 4 small bits on each stud, I buy the small ones in 10 packs.
I ordered the CO21 set. Merry Christmas!
For a hand drill and even your average vertical mill people get way too concerned with "the best" drill bits.
Buy non-Chinese HSS and learn to sharpen. Everyone seems to think there's a magical bit that will never dull and never break. If you believe that I've got some engine oil and a filter that will never need changed regardless of mileage or hours. You can order at ColoradoOceanFrontProperty dot com!
Buy non-Chinese HSS and learn to sharpen. Everyone seems to think there's a magical bit that will never dull and never break. If you believe that I've got some engine oil and a filter that will never need changed regardless of mileage or hours. You can order at ColoradoOceanFrontProperty dot com!
They did arrived intact from Amazon.
Funny thing - just the other day I needed to drill a small hole in a wrench. I managed to drill a small 1/16 or so hole with a cheap old northern tool bit believe it or not. However, I then realized I needed it bigger. The two slightly larger bits went through the hole, but did NOT drill it any larger. 
OP, have you checked out the tools available at McMaster - Carr.
They have an online catalog. If you ever need any tool or bolt or most other general mechanical things always remember to check them out.
They have an online catalog. If you ever need any tool or bolt or most other general mechanical things always remember to check them out.
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