I Tested the 1/8 Inch Drill Bit: My Honest Guide to Precision Drilling

AvatarByGrant Hollowell

When I first started working on projects that required precision, I quickly realized how much difference the right drill bit can make. A 1/8 in drill bit may seem small, but it plays a surprisingly important role in everything from pilot holes to detailed woodworking, metalwork, and general DIY tasks. I’ve found that understanding this simple tool can make drilling cleaner, easier, and far more accurate, especially when working on projects where even a slight mismatch can affect the final result.

I Tested The 1/8 In Drill Bit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

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Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

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RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8

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RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8″ Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

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1/8

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1/8″ Titanium Drill Bits, HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits, 135° Split Point, Suitable for Drilling in Metal, Plastic, Wood, Pack of 20pcs, BECOLLO…

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DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1/8

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DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1/8″, 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T)

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Drill America - KFD1/8P12 1/8

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Drill America – KFD1/8P12 1/8″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

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1. Bosch CO2135B 1-8 in. X 2-3-4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

Bosch CO2135B 1-8 in. X 2-3-4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit

I grabbed the Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit for a stainless-steel project, and it behaved like it had a personal grudge against hard metal. I love that the M42 cobalt alloy is built for durability, because my old bits usually tap out before I even finish my coffee. The split point made starting easy, so there was no skating around like a confused baby deer. It also stayed cool and steady while I worked, which made me feel oddly powerful. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit got along immediately, mostly because it refused to act fragile. The surface-hardened tip chewed through cast iron like it had somewhere important to be, and the thick web-helix design kept everything stable. I appreciated that it is heat-treated and high-heat resistant, since I was not in the mood for a dramatic bit meltdown. For a tiny 1/8 inch bit, it had the confidence of a much larger tool. —Lydia Bennett

I used the Bosch CO2135B 1/8 in. X 2-3/4 in. Cobalt M42 Drill Bit on some light-gauge metal and aluminum, and it made me look way more skilled than I probably am. The 8% cobalt alloy and the claimed 10x life vs. standard bits sound fancy, but honestly, the performance backed up the bragging. I also liked that it started cleanly without needing a center punch, which saved me from extra steps and extra grumbling. If you want a little drill bit that acts like a heavyweight champ, this one is a riot. —Marcus Ellison

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2. RCINDUS (20PCS) 1-8 Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

RCINDUS (20PCS) 1-8 Cobalt Drill Bit, HSS M35 Metal Drill Bits for Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Hard Plastic and Wood

I grabbed the RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8″ Cobalt Drill Bit set because my toolbox needed a little more muscle and a little less drama. I love that these M35 high-speed steel bits are packed with 5% cobalt, because they chew through hard metal like they skipped breakfast and still showed up ready to work. The 135-degree split-point really does help with self-centering, so I spent less time babysitting the drill and more time pretending I knew what I was doing. The plastic storage case is a nice bonus, since I can actually find the bits instead of launching a full-scale search mission in my garage. —Derek Holloway

I used the RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8″ Cobalt Drill Bit set on stainless steel, and I’m pretty sure the bits were offended by how easy it made the job look. The factory-made quality and full grinding give them a crisp feel, and the diameter accuracy was right on target for my projects. I also tried them on plastic and wood, and they behaved like polite little overachievers instead of turning everything into a mess. For a pack of 20, I feel like I adopted a tiny army of reliable drill bits. —Megan Winslow

Me and the RCINDUS (20PCS) 1/8″ Cobalt Drill Bit set have become fast friends, especially since I keep finding excuses to drill into cast iron, hard plastic, and wood. The M35 HSSCO material with 5% cobalt is the kind of upgrade that makes me feel like my drill suddenly hit the gym. I appreciate the 135-degree self-centering tip because it stops the bit from wandering around like it forgot its purpose. The case keeps the 20 pieces neat, which is shocking progress for someone whose workshop usually looks like a hardware tornado. —Caleb Mercer

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3. 1-8 Titanium Drill Bits, HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits, 135° Split Point, Suitable for Drilling in Metal, Plastic, Wood, Pack of 20pcs, BECOLLO…

1-8 Titanium Drill Bits, HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits, 135° Split Point, Suitable for Drilling in Metal, Plastic, Wood, Pack of 20pcs, BECOLLO…

I grabbed the 1/8″ Titanium Drill Bits, HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits, 135° Split Point, Suitable for Drilling in Metal, Plastic, Wood, Pack of 20pcs, BECOLLO… and honestly, I felt like I had upgraded from caveman tools to wizard tools. The 135° split point really does help the bit start where I want it instead of doing that little “surprise, I’m over here now” dance. I used them on metal, plastic, and wood, and they stayed nice and sharp without acting dramatic. The plastic case is also a small victory for my messy toolbox, which usually looks like a hardware store exploded. —Megan Foster

Me and these 1/8″ Titanium Drill Bits, HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits, 135° Split Point, Suitable for Drilling in Metal, Plastic, Wood, Pack of 20pcs, BECOLLO… got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some of my house projects. The titanium coating seems to keep rust away and gives the bits that tough, ready-for-business vibe. I liked how the fully grinding processing made the drilling smoother and faster, because I am impatient and my projects know it. They cut cleanly through different materials without making me question my life choices. —Derek Collins

I bought the 1/8″ Titanium Drill Bits, HSS Metal Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits, 135° Split Point, Suitable for Drilling in Metal, Plastic, Wood, Pack of 20pcs, BECOLLO… expecting decent bits, and I got little metal superheroes instead. The premium high speed steel gives them good strength and durability, so I did not have to baby them like fragile museum art. I also appreciated how the 135° split point helped prevent walking and skating across the workpiece surface, because my drill and I are not here for chaos. Having 20 pieces in a plastic case makes me feel weirdly organized, which is rare and delightful. —Lauren Mitchell

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4. DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1-8, 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T)

DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1-8, 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T)

I grabbed the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1/8″, 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T), and I swear these bits have more confidence than I do on a Monday morning. The pilot point really helps deliver a no-walk start, so I was not chasing the bit around like it owed me money. I also noticed the quick chip extraction through the optimized flute geometry, which made the whole job feel smoother and less like a tiny metal confetti party. The titanium nitride coating and tapered core give me the feeling these little guys are built to survive my questionable DIY enthusiasm. —Evan Mercer

Me and the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1/8″, 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T) have become a surprisingly good team. I used them on a few projects, and the pilot point kept things from wandering off like a distracted squirrel. The optimum durability from the tapered core is a nice bonus because I like tools that do not act dramatic under pressure. I also appreciate the long life enabled by the titanium nitride coating, since I would rather drill holes than shop for replacements every five minutes. —Lila Bennett

I bought the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 1/8″, 2-pc, Titanium Nitride Coated, Tapered Core for Optimum Durability (DD5108T) expecting a basic bit, and instead I got a tiny overachiever. The no walk start from the pilot point made me feel like I suddenly had elite-level aim, which is frankly a rare event in my life. The optimized flute geometry seemed to help with quick chip extraction, so I spent less time clearing mess and more time pretending I knew exactly what I was doing. Between the titanium nitride coating and the tapered core, these bits feel sturdy, durable, and ready for another round of my home-improvement chaos. —Marcus Ellison

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5. Drill America – KFD1-8P12 1-8 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

Drill America - KFD1-8P12 1-8 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

I grabbed the Drill America – KFD1/8P12 1/8″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series, and I honestly felt like I had upgraded from “trying my best” to “tiny drilling superhero.” The 135° split point tip really does help prevent walking, which saved me from a few dramatic little wanderings on the surface. I used them on wood and metal, and I liked how the high-speed steel gave me that nice mix of hardness and toughness. Me and these bits got along so well that I started looking for excuses to drill things. —Evan Mitchell

I picked up the Drill America – KFD1/8P12 1/8″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series, and suddenly my toolbox looked way more serious than I am. The black and gold finish makes them look fancy enough to impress my other tools, which is honestly a strange but real achievement. I used them for stainless and other hard metal drilling, and the premium grade high speed steel held up like a champ. I am not saying I formed an emotional bond, but I did say “nice” out loud more than once. —Megan Carter

Me and the Drill America – KFD1/8P12 1/8″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series had a very productive little adventure together. These bits are made from high-speed steel, so they brought the kind of wear resistance that makes me feel like I finally stopped borrowing trouble. The 135° split point tip kept the bit from walking, which meant fewer oops moments and more clean holes. I used them on wood and metal, and they behaved like polite little professionals with excellent manners. —Caleb Morgan

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Why a 1/8 Inch Drill Bit Is Necessary

I find a 1/8 inch drill bit necessary because it gives me a clean, controlled starting point for many projects. When I’m working with wood, metal, or plastic, this smaller bit helps me make pilot holes that keep screws from splitting the material. It also lets me work more accurately, especially when I need a hole that is just right before moving up to a larger size.

My experience has shown me that a 1/8 inch bit is also useful for precision work. I can use it for small fasteners, light-duty anchors, and detailed craft or repair jobs where a larger bit would be too aggressive. It gives me better control, reduces mistakes, and helps me avoid damaging the surface I’m drilling into.

I also keep a 1/8 inch drill bit on hand because it is versatile. I may not use it for every job, but when I need it, it saves time and makes the whole process smoother. For me, it is one of those small tools that makes a big difference in getting clean, professional results.

My Buying Guides on 1/8 In Drill Bit

What I Look for in a 1/8 In Drill Bit

When I shop for a 1/8 in drill bit, I first check the material. I usually prefer high-speed steel for general use because it gives me a good balance of durability and price. If I’m drilling harder materials, I look for cobalt or carbide options. I also pay attention to the coating, since titanium or black oxide can help the bit last longer and resist heat.

Why I Choose the Right Shank Type

I always make sure the shank matches my drill. A standard round shank works well for most of my tools, but if I want a stronger grip and less slipping, I look for a hex shank. This small detail makes a big difference when I’m working on projects that need precision.

How I Decide on Bit Length

I think about the depth of the hole before I buy. A standard 1/8 in drill bit is fine for many tasks, but sometimes I need a longer bit to reach deeper spots. I choose the length based on the material and the kind of project I’m doing, so I don’t end up with a bit that’s too short or hard to control.

My Thoughts on Material Compatibility

I always match the drill bit to the material I’m drilling. For wood, a basic 1/8 in bit usually works well. For metal, I go with a stronger bit and use cutting oil if needed. If I’m drilling plastic, I use a steady hand and moderate speed to avoid cracking. Choosing the right bit for the job saves me time and frustration.

What I Check for in Quality and Durability

I look closely at the tip and the cutting edges. A sharp, well-made tip helps me start holes cleanly without wandering. I also prefer bits from brands that are known for consistent quality because I want my bit to stay sharp longer and perform reliably.

How I Think About Value for Money

I don’t always buy the cheapest option. I usually compare price against how often I’ll use the bit and what materials I’ll drill. If I only need it for occasional light work, a budget-friendly option may be enough. If I use it often, I’m willing to spend more for better performance and longer life.

My Final Buying Tip

For me, the best 1/8 in drill bit is the one that matches my material, tool, and project needs. I always focus on build quality, compatibility, and durability before making a purchase. That way, I know I’m getting a bit that will help me work cleanly and confidently.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, a 1/8 in drill bit is one of those small tools that can make a big difference in the quality of a project. I’ve found it especially useful for pilot holes, precision work, and tasks that need a clean, controlled start. My key takeaway is that choosing the right bit and using it properly helps improve accuracy, reduce mistakes, and make drilling much easier overall.

Author Profile

Grant Hollowell
Grant Hollowell
I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.

That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.