Milwaukee Contractor's Selfeed Bit Kit (4 PC)

If you're in the market for a reliable, high-performance set of wood-boring bits, the Milwaukee Contractor's Selfeed Bit Kit (4 PC) is an option worth considering. As someone who frequently undertakes woodcutting tasks, I was particularly excited to try out this set, and it certainly did not disappoint.

To begin with, the kit includes four selfeed bits of varying sizes: 1-3/8", 1-1/2", 2-1/8", and 2-9/16". These sizes are particularly useful for tasks like installing pipe and conduit, making it a versatile addition to any contractor's toolkit. The bits are engineered with a center feed screw that guides the bit through the wood, which means less effort on your part and more efficient drilling.

One of the standout features of this set is the quality of the bits themselves. Made from hardened steel and coated in black oxide, these bits are built to last. They maintain their sharpness well, and even when they do start to dull, they can be resharpened. Instructions for sharpening are included, which is a nice touch for those who like to maintain their tools in top condition.

Using these bits was an eye-opening experience. I used them while remodeling a bathroom, which involved drilling through 2x4 studs to run electrical and plumbing lines. The bits performed admirably, cutting through the wood quickly and cleanly. The center feed screw did most of the work, pulling the bit through the wood with minimal effort on my part. However, it's worth noting that these bits require a drill with a 7/16" chuck, so make sure your drill is compatible.

One thing that became immediately apparent is the importance of holding your drill firmly. The selfeed screw can pull the bit through the wood quite aggressively, and if you're not prepared, it can catch you off guard. A side handle on your drill can be very helpful for maintaining control, especially with the larger diameter bits.

The bits come packaged in a durable carrying case that keeps everything organized and protected. The case also includes an extension that adds about 5 inches of length to the bits, which came in handy for drilling through thicker materials. Additionally, the set includes four replacement center feed screws and a few Allen wrenches for maintenance, which further underscores the thoughtfulness that went into designing this kit.

One minor issue I encountered was with the set screw in the threaded center section coming loose during use. It's a good idea to check these screws before you start drilling to avoid any interruptions. Fortunately, this was a minor hiccup and didn't significantly impact the overall performance of the bits.

Another point to consider is that these bits require a fair amount of torque to operate effectively, especially the larger sizes. I used a cordless drill with a 1/2" chuck, and it handled the task well, but make sure your drill has enough power to drive these bits. An impact driver can also be a good option, particularly for the larger bits.

The holes these bits produce are impressively clean, with minimal splintering. This is a significant advantage over spade bits and even some hole saws, which can leave rough edges and require additional work to clean up. Whether you're drilling for plumbing, electrical lines, or other installations, the clean holes these bits produce will save you time and effort.

Durability is another strong point for this kit. After extensive use, the bits showed minimal signs of wear, and I haven't needed to sharpen them yet. The black oxide coating appears to be quite effective at protecting the bits from corrosion and wear, which is always a plus in a tool that's likely to see heavy use.

Overall, the Milwaukee Contractor's Selfeed Bit Kit (4 PC) is an excellent investment for anyone who needs to drill large, clean holes in wood. The bits are well-made, durable, and come with thoughtful extras like replacement feed screws and a sturdy carrying case. While they do require a bit of muscle and a compatible drill, the efficiency and quality of the holes they produce make them well worth the effort.

In conclusion, I highly recommend this selfeed bit kit for both professionals and serious DIYers. Its combination of performance, durability, and convenience makes it a standout choice in the realm of wood-boring tools. Whether you're working on a large construction project or just tackling a home renovation, this kit will help you get the job done efficiently and effectively.