Milwaukee 17/64 in. COBALT RED HELIX Drill Bit

In my recent project, I had the opportunity to test out Milwaukee's 17/64 inch Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit, model number 48-89-2314. This bit is marketed as a robust and efficient tool for drilling through hard metals, including stainless steel, which made it an intriguing option for my metalworking needs.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about this Milwaukee drill bit is its design. The bit is crafted from cobalt alloy, which is known for its durability and heat resistance. This is a significant advantage over standard high-speed steel (HSS) bits, especially when dealing with harder materials. The bit also features a QUADEDGE TIP and a 135-degree split point. These design elements are supposed to reduce heat buildup and prevent the bit from walking, which is crucial when you need precise drilling.

Another notable aspect is the variable helix design, which facilitates faster chip removal. In practice, I found that this design indeed helped in maintaining a smoother drilling process, especially when working with thicker materials. The 3-Flat Secure-Grip shank also ensures that the bit doesn't slip in the chuck, providing an added layer of stability.

Performance

I initially used the bit to drill through 1/4-inch thick steel plates. The bit performed admirably, maintaining a sharp edge and cutting through the material with relative ease. The variable helix design seemed to work as advertised, as I noticed efficient chip removal, which helped in keeping the bit cool and operational for longer periods.

However, when I moved on to drilling through stainless steel, the bit's performance started to wane. Despite using cutting fluid and maintaining a slow, consistent drilling speed, the bit began to show signs of wear after just a few holes. This was somewhat disappointing, given the bit's marketing as a tool designed for hard metals.

Durability

Durability is one of the critical factors when choosing a drill bit, and this is where the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit had mixed results. While it performed well initially, its longevity was questionable when subjected to more demanding tasks. For example, drilling multiple holes in stainless steel or hardened steel plates significantly dulled the bit faster than I expected. This was despite following best practices like using cutting fluid and maintaining appropriate drilling speeds.

On the flip side, the bit held up well when used on softer metals and materials like wood and PVC. This versatility makes it a good all-around bit, but it falls short in specialized applications requiring extended use on hard metals.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this bit is its ease of use. The 135-degree split point tip makes starting holes effortless, and the bit doesn't walk, even when drilling at awkward angles. This is particularly useful for novice users who might struggle with keeping the bit steady. The 3-Flat Secure-Grip shank also adds to the user-friendly experience by preventing any slippage in the chuck.

Value for Money

At a price point that's higher than standard HSS or titanium-coated bits, the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit positions itself as a premium option. Given its performance, especially on softer metals and materials, it does offer good value. However, its relatively short lifespan when used on harder metals makes it a less attractive option for those who frequently work with such materials.

Recommendations

Based on my experience, I would recommend the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit for general-purpose use, particularly if your projects involve a mix of materials like wood, PVC, and softer metals. Its design and ease of use make it a versatile addition to any toolbox. However, if your work primarily involves drilling through hard metals like stainless steel or hardened steel, you might want to consider alternatives that offer better durability for such demanding tasks.

In summary, the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit excels in design and initial performance but falls short in longevity when used for heavy-duty applications. For general-purpose drilling, it's a reliable and user-friendly tool, but for specialized tasks involving hard metals, you might need to look elsewhere.