DEWALT Step Drill Bit Set 7/8 in to 1-1/8 in - Impact Ready

In this review the DEWALT Step Drill Bit Set 7/8 in to 1-1/8 in is assessed for tradespeople and hobbyists who need a reliable way to enlarge holes in sheet metal. The bottom line: this single impact-ready step bit stands out for its durability and quick cutting thanks to a split point tip and titanium nitride coating, making it a solid pick for users who run an impact driver or a rotary drill and expect clean, fast steps without frequent resharpening.

Key Features

• Titanium nitride coating: extends bit life and reduces wear so the cutting edge lasts through repeated metal drilling sessions.
• Two flute spiral design: improves chip removal during cutting, which keeps holes cleaner and reduces clogging in thicker sheet metal.
• Split point tip: increases start-up speed and reduces walking so holes can be started quickly and more accurately.
• Laser engraved step numbers: make it easy to identify the desired hole size while working, saving time on measurement checks.
• Impact ready construction: optimized for use with impact drivers while remaining compatible with rotary drills for jobsite flexibility.

Who It's For

This step drill is well suited to electricians, metal framers, HVAC technicians and DIYers who commonly cut holes in thin to medium sheet metal, metal studs and conduit boxes. Users who run battery impact drivers will appreciate the optimized build that resists the hammering action of those tools.

Those who frequently need many hole sizes in a single job will like the visible, laser engraved steps and the fast cutting split point. If you only cut nonmetal materials like wood or masonry, or need extremely large diameter holes, a different specialty bit or hole saw would be a better choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and sharpness that slices through steel reliably.
• Optimized for impact drivers so it holds up under high-torque use.
• Laser engraved numbers improve workflow by showing step sizes clearly.

Cons

• Single bit covers a limited range of sizes, so multiple bits are required for wider diameter needs.
• Designed for metal and thin materials; not ideal for heavy masonry or thick hardwoods.

Specifications

Brand	DEWALT
Model	DWA1789IR
Size range	7/8 in to 1-1/8 in
Coating	Titanium nitride
Tip style	Split point
Design	Two flute spiral, impact ready
Markings	Laser engraved step numbers

Our Verdict

The DEWALT 7/8 in to 1-1/8 in step drill bit is a dependable, impact-ready choice for professionals and serious DIYers who cut holes in metal regularly. Its durable coating, quick-start split point and clear laser markings deliver strong value for on-site metalworking, provided you only need the covered size range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this bit be used with an impact driver?
Yes, the bit is optimized for impact driver usage and is constructed to withstand impact tool forces while also working with rotary drills.

Will it cut through steel studs?
Customers report the bit cuts through metal studs and thin steel effectively thanks to the sharp edges and titanium nitride coating.

How are the step sizes identified?
Step sizes are laser engraved on the bit for increased visibility during use.