Step Drill Bit, Impact Ready, 1/8-Inch-1/2-Inch (DWA1783IR)

Use it often, really like the bit.

I don't know what it's made of, but it is hard and sharp. Goes through structural steel so much better and faster than other drill bits that are supposed to be good. I haven't tried it on stainless steel yet, but the holes it drills into structural steel are comparable to how good individual M35 bits perform on structural steel, and since those same M35 bits will go through stainless, then I'm confident this Dewalt step bit will go through stainless steel just as well. I will have an opportunity to test it on stainless steel in about a week from now and can give an update afterwards. Update: I picked up 2 other step bits, one Oxmul M35 (5% cobalt) and one Stroton (6% cobalt). The Dewalt similarly outperformed those as well. I drilled stainless steel with the Dewalt and got a surprise---it quickly accelerated in expanding/drilling out the hole once a pilot hole was created. All drilling was done with moderate even pressure at relatively slow speed.

Creates a smooth, clean hole in metal with no burrs. Very sharp and quick in mild steel sheet metal. It's the best one I've used and is highly rated by PF on the tube.

I've been using step drills since they came out in the 70's. This is the best all around I have ever used. Sharp and stays sharp, cuts clean and easy!

I love these because of the the 1/4" impact shank. Work great if you need length you can put them in an impact extension. I have drilled 1/4" thick steel and they drill right through without bogging down your drill. One issue I have is the hex part has rounded and have gotten stuck in the impact extension. I have used Milwaukee, Unibit, Greenlee, Lenox and generics, Dewalt has changed everything with the spiral flute design.

These step bits stand up to constant torture and remain sharp. I have cut through 1/2" plate steel with them (though I am sure that is not advisable) and was able to make clean holes. These bits are more expensive than some, but for the quality I think they are worth it.

Very nice solid tool. Would definitely buy again. Very sharp.

I began my project using bits from a local hardware discount store (Warrior brand) on sale for $8.99: drilled the first hole okay though I had to drill a pilot hole to get it started; then it got dull quickly and I struggled to do a couple more holes in my new fire pit ring. Watched a You Tube review of the Dewalt bits that showed it beating all other brands so I forked out the 5x cost to try it. Total "game changer"! The 3/16" starter step eliminated the pilot hole drilling other brands seem to require. This Dewalt bit cut through the steel like butter. I drilled a total of 56ea, 9/16" holes and the last hole cut just as easy as the first with no apparent dulling. Will never buy another drill bit brand; I'm completely sold. BTW, I also used an impact driver instead of your standard drill. Performed beautifully together!