Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit

The Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit, model 48-89-2526, has been a mixed bag in my experience. As someone who frequently works with metals, I was eager to test out these bits, given their promising features—durable construction for hard metals, variable helix design for efficient chip removal, and a 135° split point for accurate starting. With a diameter of 11.5mm and a length of 5.6 inches, these bits seemed poised to deliver robust performance.

Initial Impressions

First impressions do matter, and the Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit certainly looked the part. The packaging was clear about its intended use for hard metals, and the three-flat secure grip appeared designed to prevent slippage effectively. Visually, the bit looked sturdy, and the cobalt construction suggested it would handle tougher materials better than standard high-speed steel (HSS) bits.

Performance on Mild Steel

My first test was on mild steel, specifically a 1/8” steel plate, to see how the bit would fare with a relatively easier material. The bit performed admirably, cutting through the steel like butter. The variable helix design worked as advertised, efficiently removing chips and minimizing heat build-up. I noticed that the drill bit maintained its sharpness through multiple holes, and the 135° split point ensured precise starts without wandering. This performance was very encouraging and suggested that the bit could handle more demanding tasks.

Encounter with Hardened Steel

Next, I turned my attention to a more challenging material: a 3/16” thick hardened steel hinge. This task was crucial as it would determine if the Milwaukee bit could truly live up to its claims. The bit initially performed well, creating precise and clean holes. However, as the drilling progressed, I noticed a decline in performance. After about eight holes, the bit started showing wear and began to lose its edge. This was disappointing considering the premium price point. I used cutting oil and maintained a slow drill speed, yet the bit still dulled faster than expected. By the tenth hole, the bit was no longer effective, and it snapped during removal, getting lodged in the steel.

Stainless Steel Trial

Another test involved drilling through 3mm stainless steel. Stainless steel is notorious for being tough on drill bits, so I approached this task cautiously. Unfortunately, the bit struggled here. Despite using a slow speed and adequate cutting fluid, the bit only managed to create a small divot before becoming ineffective. This was frustrating and made me question the bit’s applicability for harder metals like stainless steel.

Chip Removal and Heat Management

One aspect where the Milwaukee bit excelled was in chip removal and heat management. The variable helix design effectively cleared chips, preventing them from clogging the bit and causing overheating. This feature was consistent across different materials, which is a significant advantage when working on extended projects.

Durability and Edge Retention

Durability and edge retention are critical for any drill bit, especially one marketed for hard metals. While the bit performed well on softer metals, its longevity was questionable on tougher materials. The bit dulled relatively quickly when used on hardened steel and stainless steel, which was disheartening. Given the premium price, I expected better performance in terms of edge retention.

Craftsmanship and Ease of Use

In terms of craftsmanship, the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit is well-constructed. The three-flat shank design effectively prevented slippage, providing a secure grip throughout use. The bit was easy to handle and use, especially with a drill press, which allowed for more controlled and precise drilling. For novice users, the bit’s design simplifies the drilling process, reducing the likelihood of errors.

Cost vs. Value

One of the main points of contention is the cost versus the value provided by these bits. Priced higher than many standard bits, the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit needs to justify its cost through superior performance and durability. While it performs well on mild steel and other softer metals, its performance on harder metals like stainless steel and hardened steel leaves much to be desired. This discrepancy makes it challenging to justify the premium price tag.

Conclusion

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit? The answer is nuanced. If your primary use case involves mild to moderately hard metals, this bit is a solid performer. Its design ensures efficient chip removal and minimizes heat build-up, making it suitable for extended use. However, if you frequently work with tougher materials like stainless steel or hardened steel, you might want to look elsewhere. The bit’s durability and edge retention under these conditions do not justify the higher cost.

For professional users or those with demanding metalworking needs, the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit might not offer the longevity or performance required. However, for hobbyists or occasional users dealing with less demanding materials, the bit provides good value and ease of use.

In summary, the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit has its strengths and weaknesses. It performs well on softer metals but struggles with harder materials, making it a bit of a mixed bag. Whether it's worth the investment will largely depend on your specific needs and the types of materials you frequently work with.