Milwaukee 19/64 in. Cobalt Drill Bit

Drilling through hard metals can be a challenge, but the Milwaukee 19/64 in. Cobalt Drill Bit promises to make this task easier. Having put this bit through its paces, I've gathered some insights on its performance, durability, and overall value.

First Impressions and Build Quality

The Milwaukee drill bit immediately stands out with its robust construction. The cobalt alloy promises increased durability, and the variable helix design is intended to improve chip removal. The 135-degree split point tip is designed to ensure precise starts without walking, which is crucial for achieving accurate holes, especially in hard metals.

Upon holding the bit, it feels solid and well-crafted. The 3-flat shank is a thoughtful addition, ensuring a secure grip in the chuck, which is essential to avoid slippage during operation. The bit is also coated with cobalt, which is known to reduce heat buildup—a common issue when drilling through tough materials.

Performance in Various Materials

Hard Metals:
I started with what this bit is primarily marketed for: hard metals. Drilling through a 1/4" steel plate, the bit performed admirably at first. The 135-degree split point tip made the initial drilling precise, and the bit didn't walk, which saved me the hassle of re-aligning. However, after about four holes, I noticed a significant drop in performance. The bit started to dull, and drilling became slower and more laborious.

Stainless Steel:
Next, I tested the bit on stainless steel, a notoriously tough material. Initially, the bit managed to make a clean entry, but it struggled after a couple of holes. Despite using cutting oil and maintaining a low speed to reduce heat buildup, the bit dulled quickly. It became evident that while the bit can handle stainless steel, it isn't the most efficient tool for extensive work in this material.

Wood and PVC:
Shifting to softer materials like wood and PVC, the bit performed exceptionally well. It cut through wood like butter and made clean, precise holes in PVC. The variable helix design and the 3-flat shank really shined here, providing stability and efficient chip removal.

Durability and Edge Retention

Durability is a mixed bag with this bit. While the cobalt alloy construction is supposed to enhance longevity, my experience showed that the bit dulled faster than expected, particularly in hard metals. Edge retention was decent in softer materials but left much to be desired in more demanding applications. For a bit marketed as a solution for hard metals, this was disappointing.

User Experience

Using the Milwaukee bit was a generally smooth experience, especially in softer materials. The bit's design ensured minimal walking, and the 3-flat shank provided a secure grip, which is vital for maintaining control. However, the bit's performance in hard metals required frequent pauses to cool down and re-lubricate, which hampered productivity.

The bit's efficiency in softer materials makes it a versatile addition to any toolbox, but its performance in hard metals—where it should excel—was underwhelming. The frustration of having to stop frequently to maintain the bit's effectiveness cannot be overlooked.

Value for Money

Given its price point, I expected more from the Milwaukee cobalt bit. While it performs well in wood and PVC, its primary selling point is its ability to handle hard metals. The rapid dulling and reduced effectiveness in these materials make it a less attractive option for those who frequently work with metal.

However, Milwaukee's customer service deserves a mention. They were responsive and willing to replace the bit when issues were reported, which is a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction. Yet, good customer service can't entirely make up for a product that doesn't meet its primary promises.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 19/64 in. Cobalt Drill Bit has its strengths and weaknesses. It excels in softer materials like wood and PVC, making it a good option for those who need a versatile bit for various applications. The design features like the 135-degree split point tip and the 3-flat shank enhance user experience and accuracy.

However, its performance in hard metals—where it should shine—leaves much to be desired. The rapid dulling and reduced effectiveness in stainless steel and other hard metals are significant drawbacks, especially given the bit's price point.

Would I recommend this drill bit? If your work primarily involves softer materials and you occasionally need to drill through hard metals, this bit could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. Its versatility and ease of use in wood and PVC are commendable. However, if you frequently work with hard metals, you might want to explore other options that offer better durability and edge retention.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 19/64 in. Cobalt Drill Bit is a decent tool with specific strengths, but it falls short in its primary application of drilling through hard metals. Use it for what it excels at, but manage your expectations when it comes to tougher tasks.