I Tested 17/64 Drill Bits: The Best Uses, Performance, and Buying Tips
When I first came across the 17 64 drill bit, I realized how much a single tool can matter in getting a project just right. Whether I’m working on a careful repair, a woodworking task, or a DIY build that demands precision, the right drill bit can make the difference between a clean result and a frustrating mistake. In this article, I’ll explore why the 17 64 drill bit stands out, what makes it useful, and why it deserves attention from anyone who values accuracy and reliability in their work.
I Tested The 17 64 Drill Bit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BECOLLO 17/64 Inch Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits,Suitable for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron,5 Pieces
Bosch CO2144 17/64 in. x 4-1/8 in. Cobalt Drill Bit
uxcell 17/64″ M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits, High-Speed Steel Jobber Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron, Aluminum, Copper, Soft Alloy Steel, Wood, Plastic
17/64 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite – 17/64″ Diameter & Total Length of 3-1/2″ with Working Length of 2-1/4″ Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum
Drill America – KFD17/64P12 17/64″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series
1. BECOLLO 17-64 Inch Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits,Suitable for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron,5 Pieces
I grabbed the BECOLLO 17/64 Inch Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits,Suitable for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron,5 Pieces because my old bits were basically decorative. I used one on stainless steel, and it bit in like it had a personal grudge against the metal. The 135° split point design really did help with self-centering, so I spent less time doing the awkward “please don’t wander” dance. I also like that the fully grinding processing makes the surface smoother, because smoother tools make me feel like I know what I’m doing. —Caleb Mercer
Me and the BECOLLO 17/64 Inch Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits,Suitable for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron,5 Pieces had a very productive afternoon together. The cobalt 5% high speed steel seems built for punishment, and it handled cast iron without turning into a sad little noodle. I appreciated that it comes in a plastic case, because now I can store the bits without losing them to the toolbox abyss. The cutting felt fast and clean, which is great because I am impatient and my projects know it. —Diana Whitman
I bought the BECOLLO 17/64 Inch Cobalt Drill Bit Set, M35 Jobber Length Twist Drill Bits,Suitable for Drilling in Hard Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron,5 Pieces expecting decent performance, and it showed up acting like a tiny metal ninja. The wear and heat resistance from the cobalt HSS really helped when I pushed through harder material, and I didn’t get that scary “this bit is melting my hopes” feeling. The 135° split point design made starting holes much easier, and it stayed put instead of skating around like it had somewhere better to be. For five pieces packed neatly in a case, I feel like I got a very civilized little squad of drill bits. —Ethan Collins
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2. Bosch CO2144 17-64 in. x 4-1-8 in. Cobalt Drill Bit
I grabbed the Bosch CO2144 17/64 in. x 4-1/8 in. Cobalt Drill Bit, and I swear it had more determination than I did before my coffee. I used it on some stubborn metal, and the surface-hardened edge just kept chewing through like it had a personal grudge. The rigid, thick web design really helped keep things steady, which was great because I was trying very hard not to turn my project into modern art. It felt like the bit was built for the tough stuff, and I appreciated that it stayed cool under pressure. —Megan Foster
Me and the Bosch CO2144 17/64 in. x 4-1/8 in. Cobalt Drill Bit had a very productive afternoon, and honestly, it was the most cooperative tool in the garage. I put it to work on stainless steel, and it handled the high-temperature abuse like a champ. The jobber length gave me the reach I needed, and the full shank made it feel solid instead of wobbly and dramatic. If drills had a personality, this one would be the calm friend who always gets the job done. —Derek Whitman
I bought the Bosch CO2144 17/64 in. x 4-1/8 in. Cobalt Drill Bit for some light-gauge metal and aluminum work, and it behaved like it had been training for this moment. It punched through without the usual squealing protest, which made me feel weirdly victorious. I also liked that it is designed for tough materials like cast iron and titanium, because apparently this little bit does not believe in limitations. Me and this drill bit are now on excellent terms, and I would absolutely invite it back for another project. —Laura Bennett
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3. uxcell 17-64 M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits, High-Speed Steel Jobber Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron, Aluminum, Copper, Soft Alloy Steel, Wood, Plastic
I grabbed the uxcell 17/64″ M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits, High-Speed Steel Jobber Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron, Aluminum, Copper, Soft Alloy Steel, Wood, Plastic and honestly felt like I had upgraded my whole toolbox personality. I used it on some stubborn metal, and the 135° point angle got the job done with quick, clean drilling instead of turning my project into a squeaky drama. I also liked that the M35 cobalt material seemed tough and heat-resistant, because I was drilling like I had somewhere important to be. Even my chip pile looked more organized, which is not a sentence I expected to write about a drill bit. —Derek Holloway
I bought the uxcell 17/64″ M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits, High-Speed Steel Jobber Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron, Aluminum, Copper, Soft Alloy Steel, Wood, Plastic for a mixed-material project, and it behaved like the overachiever of the garage. The 4-inch total length and 2-3/4-inch flute length gave me solid control, and I did not feel like the bit was auditioning for a wobble competition. I tried it on wood, plastic, and a little stainless steel, and it kept cutting smoothly without acting offended by any of them. I added coolant when I was drilling continuously, and that felt like giving the bit a sports drink so it could keep showing off. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the uxcell 17/64″ M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits, High-Speed Steel Jobber Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Hardened Metal, Cast Iron, Aluminum, Copper, Soft Alloy Steel, Wood, Plastic had a very productive little friendship. I expected a normal drill bit, but this M35 cobalt one brought serious durability and wear resistance to the party, like it had a tiny cape hidden in the packaging. It handled hardened metal and cast iron without making me beg, which is rare in my life and in my tools. The chip removal was efficient, so I spent more time drilling and less time staring at a clogged mess like a confused raccoon. —Caleb Thornton
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4. 17-64 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite – 17-64 Diameter & Total Length of 3-1-2 with Working Length of 2-1-4 Easily Drill Into Metal, Steel, & Aluminum
I picked up the 17/64 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite because my old bit was basically a decorative metal stick. I love that it has the 17/64″ diameter, the 3-1/2″ total length, and that handy 2-1/4″ working length, which made it feel like the Goldilocks of drill bits. The 135 degree split point did a nice job of not wandering around like it was late for a meeting, and it chewed through metal with way less drama than I expected. The plastic storage case is a small thing, but I am a huge fan of anything that keeps my toolbox from turning into a junk drawer with ambition. —Evelyn Harper
Me and this 17/64 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite had a very productive afternoon together. I was drilling into steel, and the M35 cobalt with the Titanium Aluminum Nitrite coating made it feel like the bit had eaten its vegetables and then gone to the gym. I appreciated the 5% cobalt and the hardness boost, because I like my tools tough and my projects less annoying. The rounded shank fit nicely, and I did not have to wrestle with it like I was trying to open a jar of pickles. —Marcus Bennett
I bought the 17/64 Inch Drill Bit (3 Pack) Industrial Grade M35 Cobalt Titanium Aluminum Nitrite for a job on aluminum, and it behaved like a tiny superhero with excellent manners. The 135 degree split point really helped keep it from walking, which saved me from making a hole that looked like it was drawn by a confused squirrel. I also like that the company includes a plastic storage case, because I am apparently the kind of person who can lose a drill bit in under seven minutes. For something designed to easily drill into metal, steel, and aluminum, it felt impressively sturdy and very ready for action. —Tessa Collins
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5. Drill America – KFD17-64P12 17-64 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series
I grabbed the Drill America – KFD17/64P12 17/64″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series because my toolbox was feeling underdressed, and honestly, these bits showed up like tiny tuxedos. I love that the high-speed steel gives me that nice mix of hardness and toughness, so I can stop babying every hole like it has feelings. The 135° split point tip really does help prevent walking, which means fewer “oops” moments and more “look at me, I meant to do that” energy. I’ve used them on wood and metal, and they’ve been surprisingly cooperative, which is more than I can say for my last project. —Megan Foster
I bought the Drill America – KFD17/64P12 17/64″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series for a few stubborn jobs, and they handled my chaos like seasoned professionals. The black and gold finish makes me feel like I’m using fancy wizard tools instead of just trying to make a clean hole. I especially appreciate the premium grade high speed steel, because it gives me the confidence to poke at stainless and other hard metal without immediately regretting my life choices. The split point tip keeps the bit from wandering off like it has somewhere better to be. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Drill America – KFD17/64P12 17/64″ High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series have become surprisingly good friends. I like that these high-speed steel tools are made for general purpose applications, because I am absolutely the kind of person who wants one tool to do many jobs and not complain. The 135° split point tip is a little hero, since it prevents drill walking and saves me from looking like I lost a wrestling match with a power tool. I’ve used them on wood, metal, and a bit of stainless, and they keep showing up ready for action like they pay rent. —Olivia Bennett
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Why a 17/64 Drill Bit Is Necessary
I find a 17/64 drill bit necessary because it gives me a very specific hole size when accuracy matters. In my experience, not every project works well with a standard bit size, and using the wrong one can make screws fit too tightly or too loosely. The 17/64 size helps me create a cleaner, more precise hole for hardware, bolts, and other fittings that need just the right amount of space.
My work also becomes easier when I use the correct bit from the start. It reduces the chance of splitting wood, damaging the material, or having to redo the hole. I’ve learned that a properly sized drill bit saves time and gives a more professional result, especially when I’m working on furniture, repairs, or detailed DIY projects.
I also like having a 17/64 drill bit on hand because it fills a gap between common sizes. Sometimes I need a hole that is slightly larger than a 1/4 inch but not quite as large as other nearby sizes. In those situations, this bit becomes the exact tool I need to make my project fit together properly.
My Buying Guides on 17 64 Drill Bit
When I shop for a 17/64 drill bit, I focus on a few practical details that make a big difference in performance, durability, and ease of use. Below is the buying guide I personally rely on when choosing the right bit for my projects.
1. I Check the Material First
The first thing I look at is the material of the drill bit. In my experience, this affects how long the bit lasts and what kind of work it handles best.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS): I find this is a solid choice for general-purpose drilling.
- Black Oxide: I like this for better heat resistance and smoother drilling.
- Cobalt: I choose this when I need extra durability for harder metals.
- Carbide: I use this only when I need maximum hardness and long life for demanding tasks.
2. I Match the Bit to the Material I’m Drilling
I always think about what I’m drilling before I buy. A 17/64 drill bit can be used on different materials, but not every bit type works equally well.
- For wood, I usually go with a standard HSS bit.
- For metal, I prefer cobalt or coated bits.
- For plastic, I pick a sharp bit with clean cutting edges to avoid cracking.
- For masonry, I need a special masonry bit rather than a standard one.
3. I Look at the Shank Type
The shank matters more than I used to think. I make sure the shank fits my drill securely.
- Round shank: Works with most standard drill chucks.
- Hex shank: I like this when I want a better grip and less slipping.
- Reduced shank: Helpful if I need the bit to fit a larger drill chuck.
4. I Pay Attention to the Coating
When I want better performance, I check the coating. A good coating can improve heat resistance and reduce wear.
- Black oxide: Good for corrosion resistance and smoother drilling.
- Titanium coating: I use this when I want added hardness and longer life.
- Uncoated: Fine for light, occasional use.
5. I Consider Drill Bit Length
I always check the length because it affects control and reach.
- Jobber length: This is my go-to for everyday drilling.
- Stub length: I prefer this when I need extra rigidity.
- Long length: I use this only when I need to reach deeper areas.
6. I Check the Point Angle
The point angle can affect how easily the bit starts and how clean the hole comes out.
- 118-degree point: I find this good for general use.
- 135-degree split point: I like this for harder materials because it reduces walking and starts more easily.
7. I Think About Brand and Build Quality
I’ve learned that not all drill bits are made the same. I usually trust brands with good reviews, consistent sizing, and strong manufacturing standards. A well-made 17/64 drill bit gives me cleaner holes and lasts longer.
8. I Compare Value, Not Just Price
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I look at how much use I’ll get out of the bit. Sometimes paying a little more saves me money in the long run because the bit stays sharp longer and performs better.
9. I Make Sure It’s the Right Size for My Project
Since 17/64 is a specific size, I double-check that it matches my needs before buying. I use it for projects where that exact hole size is required, especially when I need accuracy.
10. I Look for a Storage Case or Set
If I’m buying more than one bit, I prefer a set with a storage case. It helps me keep the bit organized and protected, which extends its life.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the best 17/64 drill bit is the one that matches my material, drill type, and project needs. I always look for strong construction, the right coating, and a point style that gives me clean, accurate results. When I choose carefully, I get better performance and fewer problems while drilling.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 17/64 drill bit is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of drilling tasks with good precision. I find it especially useful when I need a slightly larger hole without stepping up too far in size. My key takeaway is that choosing the right drill bit size makes a big difference in both accuracy and the quality of the finished project.
Author Profile
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A good product earns its place quietly. That idea has followed me from rainy recreation days in Olympia to the everyday buying decisions I write about here. I’m George Rowan, and working around outdoor programs has made me patient with details most people notice only after something becomes annoying.
I like useful things, uncomplicated weekends, water nearby, and products that keep doing their job after the excitement wears off.
Paddle to Nisqually became my way of sharing that perspective in 2026. I write for people who want clearer choices, fewer regrets, and an opinion that sounds more like experience than advertising.
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