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HSS drill bits (high speed steel drill bits) are the most common type of drill bit on the market today. They come in a variety of types, shapes, and materials, each designed to do one or more jobs well.

High-speed steel drill bits were invented for cutting steel and other metals, but they are also very effective at cutting other materials, such as wood or plastic. There are 5 types of high speed steel drill bits, one of which we will look at in more detail below.

  ▶HSS-R – The HSS-R drill shank is roll-forged steel. This is the cheapest manufacturing technology, with HSS-R drill bits generally being the cheapest. The use of all other manufacturing techniques results in more expensive, more specialized drill bits.

  ▶HSS-G – HSS-G drill bits are manufactured by grinding. This is a more expensive process than rolling, but it tends to provide a stronger bit that holds the edge longer.

  ▶HSS-TiN – HSS-TiN drill bits feature an extra-strong titanium nitride (TiN) coating. The coating also reduces the friction experienced by the drill bit, preventing it from heating up when used to cut hard materials, which can cause TiN drill bits to turn yellow in color.

  ▶HSS Jobber – “Jobber” drill bits can be of any other type but conform to standard lengths. This length is generally suitable for handheld and benchtop drills.

  ▶HSS-CO – HSS-Cobalt drill bits are made from cobalt steel, which is stronger and more heat-resistant than standard steel formulations, but also more brittle. They are generally more expensive than other types of high-speed steel drill bits, but more effective.