Makita 66 Pc. Contractor Bit Set

As someone who has spent countless hours working on various home improvement projects, I find the Makita 66 Pc. Contractor Bit Set (model number B-51661) to be a versatile addition to my toolkit. The set promises a wide range of bits for both drilling and fastening tasks, which is a significant advantage for anyone who needs a comprehensive solution without having to purchase multiple sets.

The packaging is the first thing that caught my eye. The compact, stackable case is well-organized, featuring color-coded insert bits and a bit holder that makes it easy to find the right tool for the job. The interlocking latches are a thoughtful addition, ensuring the case stays closed securely and can be linked with other cases for convenient transport. The low-profile carrying handle and recessed side handles make it easy to carry around, which is a big plus for someone who often moves between different job sites.

The bits themselves are a mix of spade bits, brad point bits, metal drill bits, insert bits, power bits, and nutsetters. This variety means that the set is suitable for a multitude of tasks, from drilling into wood and metal to fastening screws. The power bits come in a re-closable plastic container, adding another layer of portability and organization.

However, my experience with the bits has been a mixed bag. The spade bits and brad point bits performed well. They cut through wood cleanly and efficiently, making them reliable for most woodworking tasks. The metal drill bits were adequate, though they seemed to struggle slightly with harder materials. They managed to get the job done, but not without some effort.

The insert bits and power bits, which are essential for fastening tasks, were where I encountered some issues. While they worked well initially, I noticed that a few of them started to show signs of wear relatively quickly. One of the bits even separated from the 1/4" drive connection, which was disappointing. This kind of issue can be frustrating, especially when you're in the middle of a project and need reliable tools.

I also found that the countersink bits were a bit hit-or-miss. Some of them worked perfectly, providing clean and accurate holes every time. The inclusion of a metric Allen wrench was a nice touch, allowing for easy adjustments of both drill bit length and countersink depth. However, a couple of the bits stripped out after just a few uses, which significantly reduced their utility.

The durability of the bits is another area where the set could improve. While some bits are made of high-quality steel and perform admirably, others seemed to lack the necessary robustness for more demanding tasks. For example, one of the bits bent after just a few uses, which is not what I expected from a brand like Makita.

Despite these issues, there are several aspects of the Makita 66 Pc. Contractor Bit Set that I appreciate. The variety of bits included in the set is impressive and covers a wide range of applications. The organization of the case is excellent, making it easy to keep track of all the bits and ensuring that they are readily accessible when needed. The stackable design and secure latches are also practical features that enhance the overall usability of the set.

In conclusion, the Makita 66 Pc. Contractor Bit Set offers a lot of value, particularly for those who need a versatile and organized collection of bits for various tasks. However, the durability of some of the bits leaves room for improvement. If you are looking for a comprehensive bit set that covers a wide range of applications and you can overlook occasional durability issues, this set could be a worthwhile addition to your toolkit. On the other hand, if you require bits that can withstand heavy-duty use consistently, you might want to consider other options.

Overall, I would recommend this set for DIY enthusiasts and light to moderate users who need a versatile and well-organized bit collection. However, for professional contractors who require the utmost reliability and durability, this set might fall short in some areas.