Milwaukee Selfeed Bit 1-1/2"

Milwaukee has long been a trusted name in the tool industry, and their Selfeed Bit 1-1/2" certainly lives up to the brand's reputation. The first thing that struck me about this bit is its robust design and the promise of efficient, clean drilling through wood. After putting it to the test in various scenarios, I found it to be a reliable addition to my toolbox, though not without a few caveats.

Design and Build

The Selfeed Bit boasts a 1-1/2" diameter, which is perfect for creating large holes in wood, such as those needed for pipe and conduit installations. The 7/16" hex shank ensures a secure fit into most power drills, and the bit itself feels solid and well-constructed. One of the standout features is the center feed screw, which guides the bit and pulls it through the material quickly and efficiently. This is complemented by an inside cutting plane that creates smooth, clean holes without requiring a lot of pressure.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Selfeed Bit excels in most wood types. Drilling through new studs, old rough-cut studs, and even pressure-treated 4x4 posts was a breeze. The bit chewed through these materials like butter, making quick work of what could otherwise be a labor-intensive task. The ability to resharpen the bit is a huge plus, extending its lifespan and maintaining its cutting efficiency over time.

However, I did notice some issues when drilling through plywood. The bit tends to fill with chips and debris, which can slow down the drilling process and require frequent clearing. While this isn't a deal-breaker, it's something to be aware of if you plan to use this bit primarily for plywood projects.

Durability

Durability is generally a strong point for Milwaukee tools, and the Selfeed Bit is no exception. It handled repeated drilling tasks without any noticeable decline in performance. That said, the bit is not impervious to damage. Hitting a nail can significantly dull the cutting edges, rendering the bit less effective. Given the bit's price point, this can be a costly setback.

Ease of Use

One of the most user-friendly aspects of the Selfeed Bit is how it feeds into the wood without requiring much pressure. This makes it ideal for repetitive drilling tasks, reducing fatigue and increasing efficiency. The replaceable feed screws are another thoughtful feature, allowing for easy maintenance and prolonging the bit's usability.

Versatility

The Selfeed Bit is designed primarily for wood, and in that capacity, it performs exceptionally well. Whether you're working on new construction or renovating older structures, this bit can handle a variety of wood types with ease. However, its performance in plywood and its vulnerability to nails are limitations to keep in mind.

Value for Money

Considering the bit's robust performance and the ability to resharpen it, the Selfeed Bit offers good value for money. The replaceable feed screws add to its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who need a reliable bit for repetitive drilling tasks. However, the high cost of replacing the bit if it becomes damaged by nails is a downside.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Selfeed Bit 1-1/2" is a powerful, efficient tool that excels in most wood drilling tasks. Its robust design, ease of use, and the ability to resharpen make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. While it does have some limitations, particularly in plywood and when encountering nails, these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of its overall performance.

I would recommend the Selfeed Bit for anyone involved in repetitive wood drilling tasks, such as pipe and conduit installations. Its efficiency, ease of use, and durability make it a reliable tool that can save you time and effort. Just be cautious when working with plywood or around nails to get the most out of this high-quality bit.