When you need extra reach and reliable performance, a jobber length drill bit set is the right tool. These 12-inch or near-12-inch bits offer longer guidance for deeper holes, through-thickness work, and awkward angles. This guide highlights five top options, clarifying who they’re best for and why they’re chosen. Use these picks for carpentry, metalworking, and DIY tasks that require extended bit length without sacrificing accuracy.
Buyer’s summary table
- NEIKO 10047A Extra Long Drill Bit Set — Best for budget-conscious pros needing long reach and durability.
- HIPULX 12” Extra Long Drill Bit Set — Best for precise woodworking with Brad Point tips and deep drilling.
- Baker and Bolt 10pc Extra Long Brad Point Set — Best for hardwood and versatile applications with storage sleeve.
- GMTOOLS 29PCS Drill Bit Set — Best for metal and mixed-material projects, with M2 HSS and 135° tip.
- MACXCOIP 29Pcs Cobalt Set — Best for hard metals and long life with M35 cobalt content.
NEIKO 10047A Extra Long Drill Bit Set
These 12-inch long M2 HSS drill bits deliver extra reach with stability during quick operations. They are heat-treated for hardness, wear resistance, and toughness, and feature sharp tips for smoother entry into tough materials. Best for professionals who need reliable long bits for deep or confined-space drilling.
Who it’s best for: woodworkers and general contractors seeking long, durable bits on a budget. Why selected: the 12-inch length and M2 steel balance cost with performance for long-reach tasks. Caution: use caution with through-holes that require very large diameters, as length alone does not guarantee precision in all materials.
HIPULX 12” Extra Long Drill Bit Set
This 12-inch set provides a full 12-inch length (300 mm) and a 9-inch drilling depth, tackling deep wood, beams, and through-holes. The Brad Point tip and triangular center aid in accurate starting and clean holes, making it ideal for fine woodworking and furniture projects.
Who it’s best for: woodworkers who need precise, deep holes with minimal wandering. Why selected: a complete range of commonly used sizes and a Brad Point tip improve accuracy and reduce tear-out. Caution: not ideal for dense metals; use metal-specific bits for steel tasks.
Baker and Bolt 10pc Extra Long Brad Point Set
This 10-piece Brad Point set covers long, versatile drilling with a 12-inch length and a dedicated storage sleeve. It’s designed for hardwood, particleboard, plastic, plywood, and more, emphasizing sharpness and durability for long reach tasks.
Who it’s best for: hobbyists and professionals working with hardwood or composite materials. Why selected: the full-size range and organized sleeve help keep bits accessible during extended projects. Caution: data notes multiple applications; performance varies with very hard metals—consider cobalt or HSS alternatives for those materials.
GMTOOLS 29PCS Drill Bit Set
This M2 HSS kit includes 29 pieces with a 135°Split Point and twist design, designed to penetrate metal, cast iron, stainless steel, plastic, and wood. The set comes in an indexed round case for organized storage and quick access.
Who it’s best for: metalworkers and DIYers who need a broad range of drill sizes in one box. Why selected: the 135° point reduces walking and improves start-up accuracy. Caution: M2 HSS may wear faster than higher-end cobalt bits on very tough metals; reserve for common metals and plastics.
MACXCOIP 29Pcs Cobalt Drill Bit Set
This 29-piece set uses M35 cobalt for higher hardness and wear resistance, designed for hard metals and extended life. It includes a wide range of sizes and a storage solution. The 135° point aids fast cutting and self-centering to prevent walking.
Who it’s best for: metalworkers dealing with stainless steel, cast iron, and other hard materials. Why selected: cobalt content offers superior durability and cutting performance in tough jobs. Caution: cobalt bits are more brittle than some HSS options; use appropriate feeds and speeds to avoid chipping.
Sinyeenglon Cobalt Drill Bits Set
This 99-piece M35 cobalt set targets hardened metal and stainless steel with a robust plastic index case. It emphasizes long life and consistent performance across a wide range of sizes and materials.
Who it’s best for: builders and machinists needing a broad cobalt selection for hard metals. Why selected: extensive size range paired with cobalt hardness supports demanding fabrication tasks. Caution: packaging and weight may be bulky for small workspace setups.
MACXCOIP 29Pcs Cobalt Drill Bit Set Quick Reference
This additional cobalt option includes multiple sizes from 1/16″ to 1/2″ and emphasizes fast, self-centering, and chip-removal efficiency. It is designed to handle metal, wood, and plastic with a long service life.
Who it’s best for: project-makers who need a wide cobalt range with reliable performance. Why selected: cobalt bits are best for hard metals, and the 135° point helps reduce starting pressure. Caution: avoid using cobalt bits on extremely soft plastics at high speeds to prevent heat damage.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Jobber Length Drill Bits
- Material suitability: For wood, Brad Point tips reduce splintering; for metal, HSS or cobalt (M35) bits offer wear resistance and heat tolerance.
- Bit length and drilling depth: 12-inch sets are ideal for deep holes and reach-through tasks; verify drilling depth your project requires.
- Tip geometry: 135° split points improve centering and reduce walking; Brad Point tips prioritize clean wood holes.
- Durability vs. cost: Cobalt (M35) bits last longer on hard metals but cost more upfront; consider the material you work with most.
- Storage and organization: Look for sets with sleeves or index cases to keep bits organized for extended projects.
- Compatibility: Ensure bit shank type matches your drill (standard 1/4″ shank is common for jobber length bits).
FAQ
- Q: What is a “jobber length” drill bit? A: It refers to a standard, longer-than-average drill bit used for deeper holes, offering better reach than short-length bits.
- Q: When should I choose cobalt over high-speed steel? A: Choose cobalt for hard metals and high-heat conditions; HSS is sufficient for wood and softer metals.
- Q: Do Brad Point tips work well for metal? A: Brad Point tips are designed for wood; for metal, consider HSS with a standard twist or cobalt tips.
- Q: Can I use these bits in a hand drill or drill press? A: Yes, most jobber length bits fit standard drill chucks in both hand drills and drill presses.
- Q: How do I extend drill life? A: Use proper speed/torque settings, apply cutting fluid when drilling metal, and avoid overheating the bit.
- Q: Are long bits prone to bending? A: Longer bits can flex under stress; ensure a steady drill setup and use support for extended reach tasks.