Milwaukee Step Drill Bit Set #4 - 2PC

Drilling through metal can be a daunting task if you don’t have the right tools, and that's where step drill bits come into play. Recently, I had the opportunity to use the Milwaukee Step Drill Bit Set #4 - 2PC, and I must say, it made my drilling tasks significantly easier and more efficient. Milwaukee has a solid reputation for producing high-quality tools, and this step drill bit set is no exception.

The set includes two high-speed steel step drill bits, which are designed to drill through various metals and even plastics. One of the first things I noticed about these bits is their black oxide finish, which not only gives them a sleek appearance but also provides a layer of corrosion resistance. This is particularly useful when working in environments where moisture might be a concern.

One standout feature of these bits is the single cutting edge design. This allows for precise and accurate holes, which is a critical aspect when working on projects that require a high degree of precision. The laser-etched markings on the bits are another thoughtful addition. They make it incredibly easy to identify the hole sizes at a glance, which saves a lot of time and reduces the chances of errors during the drilling process.

The 3-flat shank design on the larger bit is particularly noteworthy. It prevents the bit from slipping in the chuck, which is a common issue with round shanks, especially in keyless chucks. This feature ensures a secure grip and adds to the overall stability and control during drilling. I found this especially useful when drilling through thicker materials, as it provided a consistent and reliable performance.

Using these step drill bits was a breeze. The speed start tip helped reduce bit walking, which is a common problem when starting to drill a hole, especially on smooth surfaces. This feature allowed me to start drilling exactly where I intended, without the bit skittering across the surface. Once the hole was started, the bits cut through the material smoothly and efficiently. I was particularly impressed with how quickly the bits cut through metal, leaving clean and precise holes with minimal burrs.

In terms of durability, these bits performed admirably. I used them to drill through various materials, including sheet metal and steel, and they maintained their sharpness throughout the tasks. However, it's worth noting that while these bits are robust, they do have their limits. For extremely thick materials, it's advisable to use a larger bit to complete the job, as the step bits are designed with specific depth increments.

One of the most impressive tests I conducted was drilling out a broken center bolt on a leaf spring of a Mack CH Dump Truck using a 12-volt cordless drill. The Milwaukee step drill bit handled this challenging task with ease, drilling through the steel quickly and without putting undue strain on the drill. This experience reinforced my confidence in the bits' ability to handle tough jobs effectively.

Despite the many positives, it's important to address some of the drawbacks I encountered. While the bits performed well initially, I did notice that their edge retention could be improved. After extensive use, particularly in harder materials, the bits started to lose their sharpness. This is a common issue with many drill bits, but given the premium price point of Milwaukee tools, I expected a bit more longevity. Additionally, for users who require frequent and extensive drilling, the durability might be a concern over time.

Another minor issue was the performance in extremely thick materials. While the bits can handle up to 1/8-inch thickness quite well, beyond that, the steps in the hole become more pronounced, and the bits struggle to maintain a clean cut. In such cases, switching to a larger or more specialized bit is advisable to achieve the desired results.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Step Drill Bit Set #4 - 2PC is a valuable addition to any toolkit, particularly for those who frequently work with metal. The high-speed steel construction, black oxide finish, and thoughtful design features like the single cutting edge, laser-etched markings, and 3-flat shank make these bits reliable and efficient for a wide range of drilling tasks. While there are some concerns about edge retention and performance in extremely thick materials, the overall performance and ease of use make these bits a worthy investment.

I would recommend this step drill bit set to both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable and efficient tool for drilling through metal. The convenience of having multiple hole sizes in a single bit, combined with the durability and precision of Milwaukee's design, makes this set a practical and valuable tool for various applications. Just be mindful of the limitations in terms of edge retention and thickness capacity, and these bits will serve you well in most metal drilling tasks.