Milwaukee 1" x 18" Ship Auger Bit

The 1" x 18" Ship Auger Bit by Milwaukee is a tool that has certainly earned its place in my toolbox. Designed for drilling through wood, including those pesky pieces with embedded nails, this auger bit is built to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use without requiring frequent resharpening. With a length of 18 inches and a 7/16-inch hex shank, it’s an impressive tool that promises versatility and durability.

The bit’s hardened tip is engineered for nail durability, which is a feature that I found particularly useful. I’ve used other bits that quickly dulled when encountering nails, but this Milwaukee bit maintained its sharpness, even after multiple encounters with metallic interruptions. This is a significant advantage, especially when working on projects that involve reclaimed wood or older constructions where nails and screws are often hidden beneath the surface.

Another standout feature is the coated flutes designed for efficient chip removal. This might sound like a minor detail, but it makes a world of difference when drilling through dense materials. The chips are expelled smoothly, preventing the bit from binding and allowing for continuous operation. This efficiency is complemented by the bit’s impact-rated shank, which means it can be used with impact wrenches. While I primarily used it with a heavy-duty drill, the option to utilize an impact wrench provides additional versatility, especially for tougher tasks.

One of the most significant applications I found for this bit was installing Romex wire and Pex water lines. The bit’s 1-inch diameter is ideal for creating the necessary channels without over-boring, which can compromise structural integrity. The 18-inch length is also perfect for reaching through thick beams and multiple layers of material. In one project, I had to drill through a 4-ply LVL beam, and this bit performed admirably, handling the task with ease and maintaining its sharpness throughout.

However, it’s worth noting an issue I encountered regarding the actual diameter of the bit. Despite being advertised as a 1-inch bit, the actual diameter measured closer to 7/8 inches. This discrepancy could be problematic depending on the specific requirements of your project. For tasks where precision is paramount, this slight variation might necessitate an adjustment or a different tool altogether.

Durability is another strong suit of the Milwaukee ship auger bit. Throughout my usage, I drilled hundreds of holes through dense materials, including treated southern yellow pine and railroad ties. The bit’s edge retention was impressive; it remained sharp after extensive use, which speaks volumes about its construction quality. I’ve had experiences with other brands where the bits dulled quickly or required frequent backing out to clear shavings, but the Milwaukee bit’s higher rate of twist effectively manages chip removal, preventing such issues.

Not all experiences were flawless, though. In particularly dense or hardwood materials like maple, the bit did tend to get stuck occasionally. This is likely due to its aggressive cutting nature, which, while beneficial in softer woods, can be a hindrance in harder materials. It’s something to keep in mind if your projects involve a variety of wood types.

On a more positive note, the bit’s performance in softer, yet tough materials like landscape timbers and tree stumps was exemplary. I used it to drill numerous holes in a large fir tree stump to accelerate decay, and the process was smooth and efficient. Even after drilling over 30 holes in a short period, the bit maintained its sharpness and effectiveness.

The Milwaukee ship auger bit’s design also facilitates ease of use. The bit’s self-feeding nature minimizes the effort required to pull it through the material. This is not only a time-saver but also reduces physical strain, which is always a welcome feature during extended use.

In summary, the Milwaukee 1" x 18" Ship Auger Bit is a robust and reliable tool that excels in a variety of wood drilling applications. Its hardened tip, efficient chip removal, and impact-rated shank make it a versatile addition to any toolbox. While the minor discrepancy in diameter and occasional binding in hardwoods are drawbacks, they are outweighed by the bit’s overall performance and durability.

I would recommend this auger bit for anyone needing a reliable, long-lasting tool for heavy-duty wood drilling tasks. Its ability to maintain sharpness and efficiency, even after extensive use, makes it a valuable investment for both professional contractors and serious DIY enthusiasts.