Best Center Drill for Stainless: 5 Picks Compared

Specs compared

Specifications are manufacturer rated, as published on each listing and collected 29 October 2026.

Buying guide: best center drill for stainless

Why start with a center drill

A center drill cuts a short, stiff starting hole that keeps the following drill on center, which matters on stainless steel because the material work-hardens if the drill rubs instead of cutting. The DKIBBITH listing describes its bits as perfect for creating a precise starting point or center holes for subsequent drilling operations and for accurate hole positioning. The toolant listing adds a 118 degree split point that is stated to prevent walking and make drilling precise and faster. Both descriptions point to the same job: spot the hole first, then drill it.

Cobalt, coating and angle

Material separates these sets more than size does. The toolant set uses M35 cobalt high-speed steel with 5% cobalt and a TiAlN coating, described as harder, more wear-resistant and heat-resistant. The Accusize M42 set uses M42 high-speed steel with 8% cobalt, ground from solid stock. The DKIBBITH and Xinodle sets use M2 high-speed steel with no cobalt content stated, and the Accusize 10-pack uses plain high-speed steel. Four of the five listings state a 60 degree angle: DKIBBITH, Xinodle and both Accusize listings. The toolant listing states a 118 degree split point instead and no included angle, so compare its point geometry on its own terms.

Size range and length

Sets cover the range differently. The DKIBBITH set spans sizes 1.0 to 5.0 at a 4 inch overall length, the longest length stated here. The Xinodle set spans 1.0 to 5.0 including half sizes 1.5 and 2.5, giving seven pieces where the other sets give five. The Accusize M42 set lists every size with its own overall length, from No.1 at 1-1/4 inches to No.5 at 2-3/4 inches. The Accusize 10-pack covers one size only, No.2, which suits repeat work in that size but not a range of jobs. Check the size list against the centers and screws you actually cut.

Count contradictions to check

Two listings disagree with themselves on count or size, so confirm before ordering. The toolant title names 3 pieces of No.1 at 3/64 inch, while its bullets list 6 pieces in five sizes from No.1 at 3/64 inch to No.5 at 3/16 inch, and the spec table size reads 3/64 inch (3pcs). The Accusize 10-pack title and size field name No.2 at 3/16 by 5/64 by 1-7/8 inches, while its bullets list a drill diameter of 5/16 inch. In both cases this guide reports both figures and treats the title size as the headline figure. The DKIBBITH, Xinodle and Accusize M42 listings state their counts consistently.

Project Match

• Stainless lathe and drill work: the toolant set, with M35 cobalt, TiAlN coating and a stainless-first materials list.
• Centering plus countersinking across sizes: the Accusize M42 set, with sizes No.1 to No.5 and a stated 60 degree countersink angle.
• Long reach centering: the DKIBBITH set, with a 4 inch overall length and a stated low speed and lubrication note for stainless steel.
• Half sizes in one case: the Xinodle set, with 7 pieces from 1.0 to 5.0 including 1.5 and 2.5.
• Repeat work in one size: the Accusize No.2 10-pack, with ten pieces of No.2 for shops that cut the same center often.

How the scores add up

Each drill set is scored on performance, build, value, safety and warranty. For center drills, safety would mean a stated safety certification or guarding feature, and none of the five listings names one, so no safety points were given. Only the toolant set states a warranty term, 90 days. A spec the listing does not publish scores nothing.

Scores run from 9.2 to 9.8: each product’s point total is placed on that range, so more points always means a higher score. Safety counts only for powered gear or where the listing states safety features; where it does not apply, the score is taken over the remaining 90 points.

FAQ: lasers and CNC

Why use a center drill?

A center drill makes a precise starting point or center hole for later drilling, and the DKIBBITH listing says it helps accurate hole positioning. The toolant listing states its 118 degree split point prevents walking, which keeps the following drill on center.

How do you use a center drill as a countersink?

The listings describe center drills for creating center holes and countersinks for screws, bolts or dowels. The Accusize M42 listing states a 60 degree countersink angle that fits all standard centers, and the DKIBBITH listing adds low speed and lubrication for stainless steel.

What size is a #4 center drill?

In the Accusize M42 set, No.4 is 5/16 by 1/8 inch with a 2-1/8 inch overall length. In the toolant bullets, #4 is 1/8 inch. Check the set you buy, since sizes are listed per set, not as a universal chart.

How does a center drill work?

It cuts a short centered hole with a countersink angle that matches standard centers, so the twist drill that follows starts on center instead of wandering. The Accusize M42 listing describes its use for centering work ends that revolve on machine centers.

What size is a #2 center drill?

In the Accusize M42 set, No.2 is 3/16 by 5/64 inch with a 1-7/8 inch overall length, and the Accusize 10-pack lists the same No.2 size. The toolant bullets list #2 as 5/64 inch.

Related: the CNC tooling hub and the best CNC router bits guide.