Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE Impact Duty RED HELIX Titanium Metric Drill Bit Set

Finding the right drill bit set can make a significant difference in the ease and precision of your work. Recently, I had the opportunity to use the Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE Impact Duty RED HELIX Titanium Metric Drill Bit Set, model 48-89-4860, and was impressed with several aspects of its design and performance.

Design and Build Quality

Milwaukee is known for its robust tools, and this drill bit set is no exception. The bits come housed in a hard plastic case that not only promises durability but delivers it. The case is easy to open and close, with a hinge that feels like it will last over many uses. However, I did encounter a bit of a struggle when trying to remove the bits from their holders. The fit is quite snug, and getting the smaller bits out required a bit of finesse. This tight fit helps keep the bits secure, but it can also make for a frustrating experience when you need to quickly swap bits during a project.

Performance

The SHOCKWAVE bits themselves are a different story — they're engineered to deliver high performance and durability. The standout feature here is the combination of a QUAD EDGE tip, VARIABLE HELIX flute, and thicker tapered web. This design not only helps the bits start more precisely but also reduces heat build-up during use, which is crucial for extending the life of the bits.

I tested these bits on a variety of materials, including steel, wood, and PVC piping. The titanium coating significantly enhances their longevity compared to standard black oxide bits. The bits made clean, precise holes with minimal wandering, which can be attributed to the sophisticated tip design. Moreover, the rapid chip removal thanks to the VARIABLE HELIX flute makes the drilling process smoother and more efficient.

One minor drawback I noticed was that the drilling portion of the bits is somewhat short due to the 1/4" hex shank occupying a considerable amount of the bit length. While this design element makes the bits compatible with both impact drivers and drill drivers, it limits the drilling depth slightly, which could be a concern for some specialized tasks.

Versatility

It’s worth noting that this set is metric, making it particularly handy for projects involving metric components. Given that I occasionally work on RC trucks and other hobbies that require metric sizes, having this set around has proven invaluable. The bits cover most of the commonly used metric sizes, which is a significant advantage.

The laser-etched size markings on each bit make it easy to identify the correct size quickly, even after significant use. This feature adds to the overall ease of use and helps save time, especially when you're in the middle of a detailed project.

Case and Storage

While the case is sturdy and designed to protect the bits, the tight fit of the holders can be a bit of a double-edged sword. The design ensures that the bits don’t rattle around, which is a plus for maintaining the integrity of the bits. However, extracting them can be a challenge, particularly for the smaller sizes. I found that using a needle-nose plier can help, but it’s not the most convenient solution.

What I did appreciate, though, is how customizable the accessory case is. It’s compatible with Milwaukee's PACKOUT system, which is a big plus if you’re already invested in that storage solution. This makes organizing and transporting your tools more seamless and integrated.

Price and Value

The SHOCKWAVE set is certainly an investment, reflecting its contractor-grade quality and advanced features. The price might seem steep, especially compared to standard drill bit sets, but the performance and durability justify the cost. You’re not just paying for a set of bits; you’re investing in a reliable toolkit that can handle various materials and demanding tasks.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE Impact Duty RED HELIX Titanium Metric Drill Bit Set lives up to the brand’s reputation for quality and durability. The bits are sharp, precise, and versatile, capable of handling a range of materials with ease. The design innovations, like the QUAD EDGE tip and VARIABLE HELIX flute, contribute to a superior drilling experience.

However, the tight fit in the case can be a bit of a nuisance, and the shorter drilling portion due to the hex shank might not suit all applications. Despite these minor drawbacks, the set's overall performance, build quality, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Would I recommend this drill bit set? Absolutely. If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable, and versatile set of metric drill bits, the Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE set is well worth the investment. It provides excellent value for money, especially for those who frequently work with metric components and need a reliable set that can handle a variety of tasks with precision and ease.