Milwaukee 15/16" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit

Drilling into wooden utility poles and other hefty wooden structures demands a tool that is both robust and efficient. This is where the Milwaukee 15/16" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit truly shines. Having spent ample time testing this tool on various projects, I can confidently say it excels in performance, durability, and ease of use.

The first thing that strikes you about this auger bit is its impressive build quality. Milwaukee has designed this tool specifically for demanding tasks, and it shows. The single spur design is particularly noteworthy, as it ensures a cleaner hole finish. This is crucial when you need a smooth passage for bolts or other hardware. The PTFE coating further enhances the drilling process by reducing friction, making it easier to drill and remove the bit from the wood.

One of the standout features of this auger bit is its feed screw and cutting edge. These components work in tandem to pull the bit through the material efficiently. During my tests, I found that the bit practically pulls itself into the wood, requiring minimal effort on my part. This is a significant advantage when working on large projects where you need to drill multiple holes quickly.

The wide flute design is another thoughtful feature that sets this bit apart. It helps to eject wood chips swiftly, minimizing clogs and ensuring a smoother drilling experience. This is particularly beneficial when working with dense or knotty wood, where chip removal can otherwise be a challenge. The bit's 7/16" hex shank is compatible with quick connect chucks, adding to its versatility and ease of use.

One of my projects involved drilling through 18 inches of pine wood, and the Milwaukee auger bit handled it with ease. The bit's aggressive feed screw pulled it through the wood rapidly, and the wide flutes efficiently ejected the chips. I used a Milwaukee 1/2” impact driver with a quick-change chuck adapter, which made the whole process seamless. After drilling multiple holes, the bit showed no signs of wear, a testament to its durability.

Another project required drilling through 6" x 6" Douglas Fir pressure-treated wood for a nautical-themed fence. The bit performed exceptionally well, cutting through the wood like a hot knife through butter. The single spur scored the edge of the hole cleanly, leaving no splintered edges. The PTFE coating prevented the bit from binding, and the wide flute design ensured that wood cuttings were ejected efficiently.

It's worth noting that this bit is designed for use with strong drills. I used a cordless hole-hog type driver set to low speed, and the bit performed flawlessly. However, if the bit binds in a knot or other obstruction, there's a risk of wrist injury, so it's essential to use both hands and exercise caution.

One minor issue I encountered was with one of the bits having a wobble right out of the box. While this was a rare occurrence, it's something to be mindful of when purchasing. However, the other bit I used ran straight and true, delivering excellent performance.

In terms of longevity, this auger bit is built to last. Even after extensive use, the bit looked as fresh as new, with no visible wear or damage. This durability is particularly important for professionals who rely on their tools for daily tasks. The bit's solid stemmed core enhances its strength, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty applications.

The Milwaukee 15/16" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit is an outstanding tool that delivers on its promises. Its combination of a single spur design, PTFE coating, wide flute geometry, and robust build quality makes it a top choice for anyone needing to drill large, clean holes in wooden utility poles or other substantial wooden structures. The bit's compatibility with quick connect chucks and its ability to work efficiently with strong drills further add to its appeal.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. Its performance, durability, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. Whether you're a professional lineman, a contractor, or a DIY enthusiast tackling large projects, this auger bit will not disappoint. Its ability to drill clean, precise holes quickly and efficiently makes it well worth the investment.