Milwaukee Cobalt Metric Drill Bit Set – 25PC

Drilling through hard metals can be quite the challenge, and having the right tools is crucial for a seamless experience. Recently, I had the opportunity to put the Milwaukee Cobalt Metric Drill Bit Set (Model: 48-89-2517) through its paces, and the results were a mixed bag. Boasting durable cobalt construction and designed specifically for hard metal applications, this set initially appeared to be the ultimate solution for my drilling needs.

The first thing that struck me about the Milwaukee set was the robust case. The bits are well-organized, each in its dedicated slot, which means no more bits rolling around or getting lost in the workshop. However, the labeling within the case leaves much to be desired. The size markings are confusingly placed, making it unnecessarily challenging to find the correct bit, especially when you're in the middle of a project and need to switch sizes quickly.

When it came to actual drilling, the cobalt construction and split point tip were immediately noticeable. The split point tip ensures precise starts and minimizes walking, which is a lifesaver if you need to drill accurate holes. I used these bits on a variety of materials, including stainless steel, angle iron, and even some solid steel plates. On softer metals and materials like plywood and drywall, these bits performed exceptionally well. They cut cleanly and quickly, and the variable helix design efficiently removed chips, preventing clogging and overheating.

However, the performance on harder metals was inconsistent. While some users reported excellent results drilling through tough stainless steel with ease, my experience was a bit different. Drilling through hardened steel was a struggle, even with the use of cutting oil and appropriate drilling speeds. Some bits seemed to lose their edge rather quickly, and in a few cases, the bits even broke under pressure, which was quite disappointing for a product marketed for hard metal applications.

The larger bits, in particular, seemed to have durability issues. On one occasion, a 5/16" bit broke its tips before I could drill even a quarter-inch deep into a bolt. This was not what I expected from Milwaukee, a brand generally known for its high-quality tools. Additionally, resharpening these bits proved to be quite challenging due to the factory-specific point design, which is not easily replicated with a standard sharpener.

One highlight, however, was the secure grip feature. The larger bits have flattened areas that prevent slipping in the drill chuck, which is a thoughtful addition. This feature is particularly useful when using the bits with a cordless drill or a drill press, as it provides more stability and control during the drilling process.

Despite the issues with hard metals, the Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit Set did shine in other areas. For woodworking and general metalworking tasks, these bits performed admirably. They maintained their sharpness longer than typical high-speed steel bits and offered a level of precision that made detailed work much easier. The laser-etched sizing on each bit was also a nice touch, making it easy to identify the right size for the job without having to squint at tiny, hard-to-read markings.

Overall, the Milwaukee Cobalt Metric Drill Bit Set is a solid choice for general drilling tasks, especially if you work with a variety of materials. Its performance on softer metals and wood is commendable, and the bits' durability in these contexts is impressive. However, if your primary need is drilling through very hard metals like hardened steel or tough stainless steel, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for some frustrations.

In conclusion, I would cautiously recommend this drill bit set. For general-purpose use and softer materials, it offers durability, precision, and a well-designed case for easy organization. However, for heavy-duty drilling in hard metals, the performance is inconsistent, and the bits may not hold up as well as one would hope. If you often find yourself needing to drill through particularly tough materials, it might be worth exploring other high-end cobalt or carbide bit options that are specifically designed to handle such demands.