Features
- Center feed screw pilots the bit and allows for fast pulling through wood
- Two inside cutter blades create smooth holes without exerting pressure
- Resharpenable cutting edges
Specifications
| Diameter | 3-5/8 in. |
| Shank | 3-Flat |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Type | Wood Boring Bit |
| Style | Standard |
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This selfeed bit is designed for drilling large holes in wood. It is effective for trades that require wood cutting, such as installing pipe and conduit. The bit feeds into the material without requiring excessive pressure, providing a clean and accurate hole.
Model Number: 48-25-3621
Milwaukee Selfeed Bit 3-5/8 in. Review
Diving into woodworking projects often demands tools that can handle the rigors of cutting through tough materials without faltering. The Milwaukee Selfeed Bit 3-5/8 in., model number 48-25-3621, promises to be a robust solution for tradespeople who need to drill large, precise holes in wood. Having spent some time with this bit, I have a few insights to share that might help you decide if it’s the right addition to your toolkit.
Design and Features
One of the standout features of this selfeed bit is its center feed screw. This component pilots the bit, allowing it to pull itself through the wood with minimal effort on your part. This is particularly useful when drilling through large sections of wood, as it reduces the amount of pressure you need to apply, making the job less strenuous. The bit also boasts two inside cutter blades, designed to create smooth holes without tearing the wood. The cutting edges are resharpenable, which is a significant plus for those who undertake frequent drilling tasks and want to maintain the bit's effectiveness over time.
The bit has a diameter of 3-5/8 inches and comes with a 3-flat shank, which ensures a secure grip in the drill chuck, minimizing slippage. This is particularly important when dealing with large-diameter bits that require more torque. The bit is packaged in a carton, which is standard but does the job of protecting the bit during transit and storage.
Performance
In practice, the Milwaukee Selfeed Bit performs admirably in most conditions. When drilling through kiln-dried (KD) lumber, the bit draws in smoothly and cuts quickly. The self-feeding action works as advertised, making the process more efficient and less physically demanding. However, when you switch to wet treated lumber, the performance can be somewhat inconsistent. The wood tends to tear at the bottom of the hole, and there can be a buildup of material under the cutting edges. This may require you to stop and clear the bit more frequently, adding some time to your task.
Despite these minor hiccups, the bit's overall performance remains strong. It’s worth noting that wet treated lumber poses a challenge for many types of bits, so the occasional struggle isn't entirely unexpected.
Durability and Maintenance
Durability is another area where this bit shines. The replaceable shaft feature is particularly valuable. If you accidentally hit a nail or knot and snap the shaft, you can replace it without needing to purchase an entirely new bit. This not only saves money but also reduces downtime, allowing you to get back to work quickly.
For those who use this bit frequently, having it resharpened at a professional saw shop can extend its life significantly. The cutting edges can be resharpened multiple times, ensuring that the bit remains effective even after considerable use.
Practical Tips for Use
Given the bit's size and the torque required to use it effectively, I recommend pairing it with a drill that has a clutch, such as the Milwaukee Superhawg or the DeWalt models. These drills can handle the bit's demands without risking damage to the shaft or the drill itself. Using a drill without a clutch, like the Hole-Hawg, can lead to broken shafts, which is something you want to avoid to maintain efficiency and safety.
Quality and Packaging
Milwaukee tools are known for their quality, and this selfeed bit is no exception. The bit feels sturdy and well-made right out of the box. The carton packaging, while basic, does a good job of protecting the bit during shipping and storage. It's always reassuring to see that a tool arrives in good condition, ready to go to work.
Final Thoughts
The Milwaukee Selfeed Bit 3-5/8 in. is a solid choice for anyone needing to drill large holes in wood regularly. Its design features, such as the center feed screw and resharpenable cutting edges, make it both user-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. While it may encounter some difficulties with wet treated lumber, its performance in KD lumber and its durability make it a worthwhile investment.
If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-performance wood-boring bit that can handle big jobs with ease, I would recommend the Milwaukee Selfeed Bit. Its combination of efficiency, durability, and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any toolkit, particularly for professional tradespeople who demand consistent, high-quality results.
In summary, the Milwaukee Selfeed Bit 3-5/8 in. delivers on its promises, providing a reliable and efficient solution for drilling large holes in wood. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a dedicated DIY enthusiast, this bit is likely to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Project Ideas
Business
Custom Wooden Planter Business
Start a business creating and selling custom wooden planters. Market them to garden centers, home decor stores, and online marketplaces for unique, handcrafted garden accessories.
Birdhouse Kits
Sell DIY birdhouse kits with pre-drilled wooden panels, hardware, and assembly instructions. This can appeal to hobbyists, families, and educational programs.
Wooden Lantern Sales
Produce and sell handcrafted wooden lanterns. These can be marketed for home decor, weddings, events, and outdoor spaces. Offer custom designs and personalization options.
Furniture Manufacturing
Start a small business crafting unique wooden furniture pieces. Market them as bespoke, handcrafted items for customers looking for one-of-a-kind pieces.
Craft Fair Creations
Create a variety of wooden crafts, such as wind chimes, planters, and lanterns, to sell at craft fairs and local markets. This offers a direct way to engage with customers and showcase your craftsmanship.
Creative
Custom Wooden Planters
Use the selfeed bit to drill drainage holes in wood blocks or logs to create unique, custom wooden planters. This can add a rustic charm to any garden or indoor plant collection.
Birdhouse Construction
Create birdhouses by drilling entry holes in wooden panels or logs. The clean, accurate holes make it easy to assemble and customize birdhouses for different bird species.
Wooden Lanterns
Craft decorative wooden lanterns by drilling holes in wooden frames or logs to allow light to shine through. These can be used with candles or LED lights for a charming decorative piece.
DIY Furniture
Create unique furniture pieces by drilling large holes for joining wooden parts. This can be used to make stools, benches, or tables with a rustic or modern design.
Wooden Wind Chimes
Design and create wooden wind chimes by drilling holes in wood discs or logs. These can be strung together with ropes or wires to create a soothing, natural sound.