Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit

Drilling through hard metals can be a challenging task, and having the right drill bit can make all the difference. I recently had the opportunity to test out the Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit, specifically the 9/64" size, model number 48-89-2306, and I’d like to share my insights on its performance, durability, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit is crafted from a cobalt alloy, which is known for its durability and heat resistance. The bit features a 135° split point tip designed to provide a precise start and prevent walking. This is particularly useful when you need to drill accurately without the bit wandering off the mark. Additionally, the bit has a variable helix design, which helps in efficient material extraction, ensuring a smoother drilling process.

One of the standout features is the 3-flat secure-grip design that prevents slippage in the chuck. This is a small but significant detail that enhances the overall user experience, especially when working with tougher materials.

Performance

I tested the drill bit on various materials, including stainless steel, mild steel, and PVC. The bit performed admirably on mild steel and PVC, drilling clean and precise holes with minimal effort. The 135° split point tip worked as advertised, allowing for a clean start without any walking. The variable helix design also seemed to aid in efficient chip removal, preventing the bit from getting clogged and ensuring a smoother drilling experience.

However, when it came to stainless steel, the performance was less impressive. While the bit initially cut through the material with relative ease, it dulled noticeably after just a few holes. This was somewhat disappointing, given the bit’s marketing as suitable for hard metals. I used cutting oil and maintained a slow drill speed to prevent overheating, but the bit still lost its edge fairly quickly.

Durability

Durability is where the Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit showed some inconsistencies. On softer materials like PVC and mild steel, the bit maintained its sharpness over multiple uses. However, on harder materials like stainless steel and cast iron, the bit’s edge retention was less than stellar. After drilling a few holes in stainless steel, the bit started to show signs of wear, and by the time I reached the fifth hole, it was noticeably dull.

This raises questions about the bit’s long-term durability, especially for users who frequently work with hard metals. While the cobalt alloy provides some level of heat resistance, it doesn’t seem to be enough to maintain sharpness over extended use on tougher materials.

Ease of Use

The Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit is user-friendly, thanks to its design features. The 3-flat secure-grip design ensures that the bit stays firmly in place, reducing the chances of slippage. The 135° split point tip makes it easy to start drilling without the need for a pilot hole, which saves time and effort. Additionally, the variable helix design aids in smooth and efficient drilling, making the bit easier to use even for novice users.

Value for Money

The Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit is priced at a premium, and this is where potential buyers need to weigh the pros and cons carefully. For softer materials like PVC and mild steel, the bit offers excellent performance and durability, making it a worthwhile investment. However, for harder materials like stainless steel and cast iron, the bit’s performance and durability are less impressive, which may not justify the higher price tag.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit is a mixed bag. It excels in drilling through softer materials like PVC and mild steel, offering clean and precise holes with minimal effort. The design features, such as the 135° split point tip and 3-flat secure-grip design, make it user-friendly and efficient.

However, when it comes to harder materials like stainless steel and cast iron, the bit falls short in terms of durability and edge retention. While it can handle a few holes in these materials, it dulls relatively quickly, which may not justify the premium price for users who frequently work with hard metals.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit? It depends on your specific needs. If you primarily work with softer materials and occasionally need to drill through harder metals, this bit offers good performance and ease of use, making it a worthwhile investment. However, if you frequently work with hard metals, you might want to consider other options that offer better durability and edge retention for tough materials.

In summary, the Milwaukee Cobalt Drill Bit is a solid choice for general-purpose drilling but may not be the best option for heavy-duty applications involving hard metals.