Milwaukee 23/64" Thunderbolt Black Oxide Drill Bit

Drilling can be a challenging task, especially when dealing with varied materials like metal, wood, and PVC. Having the right drill bit can make a world of difference, and Milwaukee's 23/64" Thunderbolt Black Oxide Drill Bit has proven to be a reliable companion in my toolkit. Let's dive into what makes this drill bit a worthy addition for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Right out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the solid construction of the bit. The thicker core design is immediately apparent and offers a sense of durability and strength. This feature, as advertised, certainly enhances the bit's resistance to breakage, a common issue with thinner bits especially under heavy-duty use.

One of the standout features of this drill bit is the 135° split point tip. This design is a real game-changer when it comes to accuracy. The bit starts drilling exactly where you place it, without the annoying tendency to walk across the surface before biting in. This precision is particularly beneficial when working on delicate materials or when exact placement is crucial.

The 3-flat secure-grip shank is another thoughtful addition by Milwaukee. The flats on the shank prevent the bit from slipping in the drill chuck, which is a common issue that can lead to uneven holes and increased wear on the bit. This feature ensures a more secure grip, allowing for smoother and more efficient drilling.

The flute design deserves a special mention. It is designed to clear chips effectively, which not only speeds up the drilling process but also reduces heat build-up. This is particularly useful when drilling through metals, as excessive heat can quickly dull a bit. The black oxide coating further enhances durability by providing a layer of corrosion resistance, ensuring the bit remains in good condition even after multiple uses.

In practice, the bit performs admirably across a variety of materials. I tested it on metal, wood, and PVC, and it handled each task with ease. When drilling through metal, especially, the bit maintained its sharpness and did not show any signs of wear even after several uses. The key to longevity, however, is to use the bit at the recommended speeds and with appropriate lubrication, particularly when working with harder materials.

One of the challenges I encountered was with smaller diameter bits in the set, which tend to break under heavy use. However, this is a common issue with any drill bit set and not unique to Milwaukee. The larger bits, including the 23/64", remained robust and sharp, making them perfect for more demanding tasks.

The case that comes with the set is also worth mentioning. It's sturdy and well-designed, with individual slots for each bit size, ensuring they remain organized and easy to access. The sliding latch is a nice touch, making it easy to open and close the case securely. However, I did find that the smaller bits can be a bit tricky to remove from their slots initially, but this becomes easier with use.

While the Milwaukee drill bits excel in many areas, they are not without their drawbacks. One of the more noticeable issues is their susceptibility to rust if not properly maintained. This is a common problem with black oxide-coated bits, and it's essential to ensure they are dried off after use, especially if they come into contact with moisture.

Another minor issue is the wear rate of the bits when used at high RPMs without adequate lubrication. This can lead to faster dulling, particularly when drilling through harder metals. However, with proper care and usage, these bits can last a long time.

In conclusion, Milwaukee's 23/64" Thunderbolt Black Oxide Drill Bit is a solid performer that offers durability, precision, and efficiency. The thicker core, split point tip, and secure-grip shank are standout features that enhance its usability and longevity. While there are some minor issues like the susceptibility to rust and the wear rate at high RPMs, these can be mitigated with proper care and usage.

I would highly recommend this drill bit to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its performance across various materials and its durability make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you're drilling through metal, wood, or PVC, this bit is up to the task, providing clean and precise holes every time. The investment in a quality tool like this is well worth it for the time and effort it saves on the job.