Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
DeWalt Black and Gold 14-Piece Drill Bit Set
Best for General Home UseLeatherman Bit Kit Set
Best Compact EDC Bit KitPrice
$15-$19
$20-$35
Summary
WIRED's top drill bit pick for home tool kits — black oxide coating reduces friction, resists rust, and handles wood, metal, plastics, wallboard, and fiberglass. A focused 14-piece set that covers everything most homeowners actually need.
The go-to pocket bit kit for multitool users — covers Torx, Allen, Phillips, and square drive bits in a slim, portable sleeve. Reddit's r/EDC community unanimously recommends it for anyone who carries a Leatherman Surge or similar multitool.
Pros
- Black oxide coating reduces friction for faster drilling and resists rust
- Handles wood, metal, plastics, wallboard, and fiberglass
- 14-piece set covers the most common bit sizes without overwhelming variety
- DeWalt brand reliability — compatible with DeWalt's broad tool ecosystem
- Compact and easy to store
- Covers Torx, Allen, Phillips, flathead, and square (Robertson) drive bits
- Slim flat form factor fits in a Leatherman sheath or Skinth pocket organizer
- Compatible with Leatherman bit extender for added reach
- Saves trips back to the tool bag for quick 2-minute jobs on site
- Highly recommended by r/EDC community for electricians and tradespeople
Cons
- Only 14 pieces — no driver bits, nut setters, or masonry bits included
- Not ideal for heavy masonry or concrete drilling
- Smaller set means you may need to buy additional specialty bits separately
- Flat bits are not as strong as standard 3D hex shank bits
- Not suitable as a replacement for a full drill bit set
- Best value only if you already own a Leatherman multitool with bit adapter
Our take
If you don't need 91 pieces and just want reliable bits that won't rust or snap, this DeWalt set is the one WIRED recommends pairing with any home drill. The black oxide coating is a real differentiator over cheaper bare-steel alternatives.
This isn't a traditional drill bit set, but if you carry a multitool daily, the Leatherman Bit Kit is the upgrade that makes it actually useful on a job site. Electricians and tradespeople on Reddit swear by it for quick fixes without a trip back to the tool bag.
Buy
