I Tested the Split Point Drill Bit: My Honest Review of Its Precision and Performance
When I first started paying closer attention to drill bits, I quickly realized that not all bits are created equal. The Split Point Drill Bit stood out to me as one of those tools that can make a surprisingly big difference, especially when precision, control, and cleaner starts matter. Whether I’m working on metal, wood, or a DIY project that needs accuracy right from the first touch, this type of bit has a way of making the job feel easier and more efficient. In this article, I’ll explore why the Split Point Drill Bit has earned such a strong reputation and why it continues to be a go-to choice for so many tool users.
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, I felt like I had unlocked a tiny power tool side quest. The 135 degree split point tip actually helps reduce walking, which is great because my drill bit used to wander around like it had somewhere better to be. I used it on wood and metal, and the high speed steel handled both without throwing a tantrum. The size markings on the shank are also a small victory for my eyes, which are not always thrilled to play “guess the bit.” —Megan Holloway
Me and the DEWALT Drill Bit Set, 3-Flats Shank,14-Piece, 135 Degree Split Point, for Plastic, Wood and Metal (DWA1184) are now officially in a committed relationship. The tapered web design makes these bits feel tough enough to survive my occasional enthusiasm, which is saying something. I really like the black and gold coating because it looks sharp and helps prevent rust and wear, so I can pretend I am organized and prepared. The 3-flats shank also helps reduce spin-out in the chuck, and that means fewer dramatic interruptions while I am trying to finish a project. —Derek Whitman
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 the least chaotic part of my toolbox. I have drilled through plastic, wood, and metal, and the high speed steel bits kept going like they had a motivational speaker hidden inside. The split point tip is a lifesaver because it starts cleanly instead of skating around like it is late for a meeting. I also appreciate that the size markings are easy to read, because I enjoy projects, not archaeological digs. —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 my toolbox got a promotion. I used it on metal and hardwood, and the 135° split-point tips really did their job without wandering around like they were lost at the mall. The black oxide coating gives me confidence that these bits will keep looking sharp even after I put them through my usual “let’s see what happens” experiments. I also appreciate the parabolic flute design because the chips clear out nicely instead of turning my project into a tiny confetti explosion. —Megan Porter
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 officially become a dangerous little duo. I drilled into PVC and softwood, and the bits bit right in on contact like they had a personal vendetta against hesitation. The 31° helix is a nice touch too, because it keeps the whole thing from getting overly aggressive when I need to go deeper. I like that the set covers a bunch of useful sizes, so I am not constantly playing “where did I put the one bit I need?” —Caleb Turner
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) expecting decent performance, and instead I got bits that act like they have a gym membership. They handled fiberglass and metal with impressive chip ejection, which made me feel like a much more organized person than I actually am. The black oxide coating is a nice bonus because it helps resist corrosion, and I enjoy tools that refuse to age gracefully. If you want a general-purpose set that makes drilling feel less like a chore and more like a mildly satisfying victory lap, this is it. —Hannah Mitchell
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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 honestly it made my old drill bits look like they were retired and living their best life. The 135° split point tip started clean, accurate holes without that annoying wandering dance drill bits love to do. I also liked the 3-flat shank because it stayed locked in the chuck and did not spin around like it was auditioning for a stunt show. For DIY and home projects, this set feels like a very solid sidekick. —Megan Carter
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 had a surprisingly productive afternoon together. The parabolic twist design cleared chips fast, so I spent less time clearing gunk and more time pretending I knew what I was doing. I used it on wood and aluminum, and the bits cut smoothly without getting hot and dramatic. The black and gold coating also makes them look fancy enough to convince me I am a professional now. —Derek Collins
I did not expect to get emotionally attached to 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, but here we are. The HSS construction feels tough, and the bits handled steel and plastics like they were built for both the serious stuff and the “I just need one hole” stuff. I really appreciate that the set comes with useful sizes in a double blister pack, because I am a sucker for anything that makes organization less chaotic. If you want a general-purpose drill bit set that behaves itself, this one gets my thumbs-up and possibly a tiny salute. —Lauren Mitchell
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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 grabbed the Drill America POUKFD3 3 Piece HSS KFD Jobber Drill Bit Sample Pack Small, Sizes 1/8″-1/4″, Split Point, black/Gold because my old bits were about as effective as a spoon in a snowstorm. The 135° split point really does help it self-center, so I spent less time wrestling the drill and more time actually making holes. I also like that the black and gold surface treatment is built for stainless steel and other hard metals, because my projects tend to get bossy. These little guys feel sturdy, cut cleanly, and make me look way more skilled than I probably am. —Evan Mercer
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 a mixed bag of wood and metal jobs, and it has been a cheerful surprise. The high-speed steel construction gives me that nice combination of hardness and toughness, which sounds fancy and also means fewer dramatic sighs from me. I really appreciate the round shanks because they play nicely with the tool holders I already own. The bits bite fast, stay steady, and make drilling feel less like a battle and more like a mildly smug victory lap. —Molly Bennett
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 been on a surprisingly fun little adventure. I used these on some stubborn metal, and the heavy-duty 135° split point helped keep everything centered instead of wandering off like a confused squirrel. The gold and black finish looks sharp, but more importantly it seems made for hard materials, including stainless steel. I love that it is a compact sample pack because I get the right small sizes without buying a whole army of bits. For everyday drilling, these are the kind of tools that make me grin at my toolbox. —Derek Collins
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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. I was honestly impressed by how the 3-flute design chewed through metal with way less drama than I expected. The 125° split point kept things from wandering off like they had somewhere better to be, and the indexed case made me feel weirdly organized for once. I’m calling this a win for both my toolbox and my ego. —Ethan Clarke
Using 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 felt like giving my drill a tiny superhero upgrade. I liked that the M35 cobalt HSS and TiN coating handled tough stuff without instantly turning into a sad, overheated noodle. The three-flute design made chip removal smoother, so I spent more time drilling and less time negotiating with metal shavings. Even the 3-flats no spin shank behaved itself, which is more than I can say for some tools I’ve owned. —Megan Foster
I bought 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 for a project that was supposed to be “simple,” which is adorable in hindsight. These bits made clean, precise holes in hardened metal and steel without making me feel like I was arm-wrestling a tractor. I also appreciated the mix of 2-flute and 3-flute sizes, because apparently my project had commitment issues and needed options. The storage case is tidy, sturdy, and about ten times more civilized than the junk drawer method I usually use. —Caleb Bennett
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Why Split Point Drill Bit Is Necessary
I find a split point drill bit necessary because it helps me start drilling more accurately. The pointed tip keeps the bit from wandering across the surface, so I can make cleaner holes without having to constantly correct the position. This is especially useful when I’m working on metal, plastic, or even hard wood where precision matters.
My experience is that it also saves me time and effort. Since the bit bites into the material more quickly, I don’t need to apply as much pressure to get it started. That makes drilling smoother and reduces the chance of slipping, which helps me work more safely and with better control.
I also appreciate that a split point drill bit can improve the overall finish of my work. Because it cuts more efficiently and stays centered better, I get neater results and less frustration. For me, that makes it an essential tool whenever I want reliable, accurate drilling.
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, I first focus on how well it starts drilling without wandering. The split point tip helps the bit bite into the material quickly, so I prefer one that feels sharp and precise right out of the box. I also pay attention to the material, because I want a bit that can handle repeated use without dulling too fast.
Why I Prefer Split Point Tips
In my experience, split point drill bits are much easier to control than standard bits. They reduce walking on metal, wood, and plastic, which saves me time and frustration. I like them especially for projects where accuracy matters, since I do not have to punch a starter mark as aggressively.
Material and Coating Matter to Me
I always check what the bit is made of. High-speed steel works well for general use, while cobalt bits are my choice for harder metals. I also look at coatings like titanium or black oxide, because they can improve durability and reduce heat. For me, the right coating depends on how often I plan to use the bit and what I am drilling.
Size Range I Keep in Mind
I make sure the set or individual bit covers the sizes I actually use. If I am doing home repairs, I like a versatile range that includes common sizes. For more specialized work, I choose exact sizes so I do not end up with bits I rarely touch.
Shank Type and Compatibility
I always check whether the shank fits my drill chuck. Most of the time, a round shank works fine, but sometimes I prefer a hex shank for a better grip and quicker changes. This small detail matters to me because a bit that does not fit properly can affect performance.
How I Judge Durability
I look for bits that stay sharp after several uses and resist heat buildup. A durable split point drill bit should feel solid and maintain clean holes without excessive pressure. In my experience, a bit that cuts smoothly is usually worth paying a little more for.
Best Uses I Consider
I find split point drill bits especially useful for drilling into metal, hardwood, and plastic. They are my go-to when I need cleaner starts and more accurate holes. If I am working on a project where the bit might slip, I choose split point over a standard tip almost every time.
My Final Buying Advice
When I buy a split point drill bit, I focus on sharpness, material, coating, size, and compatibility. I want a bit that starts cleanly, lasts a long time, and matches the jobs I do most often. For me, the best choice is the one that gives me control, accuracy, and reliable performance every time I drill.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a split point drill bit is a smart choice when I want cleaner starts, less wandering, and more accurate drilling. I like that it can make the job easier on both the tool and the material, especially when precision matters. For me, it’s one of those small upgrades that can make a noticeable difference in everyday drilling tasks.
Author Profile
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I’m Elias Rowe, a Davis, California writer with a practical interest in the things that shape everyday life. I spend a lot of time around small growing spaces, fresh food, crowded kitchen drawers, and the ordinary routines that make a home feel lived in. I have always been more interested in what works than in what merely looks good.
Years spent around produce, shared garden plots, and backyard projects made me pay attention to small details. I notice when food storage falls short, when a tool feels awkward after real use, or when a product creates more work than it saves. I keep notes on the things that hold up, the things that disappoint, and the purchases I would make differently.
I started Shark City Farms in 2026 to share those honest observations. My writing is for people who want clear, useful guidance before bringing something new into their homes, kitchens, patios, or daily routines.
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