Fastener Guide

How to Drill Through Metal

  1. Mark the hole and set a center punch so the bit does not skate across the surface.

    Save Step 1: Mark the hole and set a center punch so the bit does not skate across the surface.

  2. Use a sharp high-speed steel or cobalt bit, and slow the drill down for hard or stainless steel.

    Save Step 2: Use a sharp high-speed steel or cobalt bit, and slow the drill down for hard or stainless steel.

  3. Start with a small pilot hole, then step up to the final size in one or two passes.

    Save Step 3: Start with a small pilot hole, then step up to the final size in one or two passes.

  4. Apply cutting oil to cool the bit and improve the finish — it is not optional in stainless.

    Save Step 4: Apply cutting oil to cool the bit and improve the finish — it is not optional in stainless.

  5. Clamp the work down; thin sheet can grab the bit and spin dangerously.

    Save Step 5: Clamp the work down; thin sheet can grab the bit and spin dangerously.

  6. Deburr both sides of the hole with a larger bit or deburring tool before fitting the fastener.

    Save Step 6: Deburr both sides of the hole with a larger bit or deburring tool before fitting the fastener.

Related Fasteners