Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE 5 pc SAE Impact Drill Tap Set

The Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE 5 pc SAE Impact Drill Tap Set, model 48-89-4874, is an intriguing addition to any tool collection, especially for those who frequently work with metal. The concept of combining drilling and tapping into a single operation is a significant time-saver, and this set promises that efficiency. I had the opportunity to use this set extensively, and here are my thoughts based on my experience.

Design and Build Quality

The set includes five drill-tap bits in the sizes: 8-32, 10-24, 10-32, 12-24, and 1/4-20. Each bit features a 1/4 inch quick-change hex shank, making it compatible with both impact drivers and drill drivers. The bits are uncoated, which might raise some concerns about longevity, but they performed well in my tests. The laser-etched sizes on each bit are a nice touch for quick identification, though I found them somewhat hard to read under certain lighting conditions.

Performance

Using these bits in an impact driver was a breeze. The quick-change hex shank fits snugly and securely, allowing for rapid transitions between bits. I tested the set on various materials, including mild steel, aluminum, and even some plastics. The bits drilled and tapped holes up to 1/4 inch thick with relative ease. The combination of drilling, tapping, and countersinking in one go is incredibly convenient, especially when working on multiple holes.

The drilling portion of the bits cuts through material efficiently, and the tapping section follows through smoothly. However, I noticed that controlling the speed and pressure is crucial. In an impact driver, the incremental rotary motion helps in advancing the tap without much resistance. In a drill driver, however, the tap advances quickly, and one must be cautious to avoid countersinking too deeply.

Durability

While the set performs admirably in terms of drilling and tapping, durability is where it falters slightly. During my usage, I encountered a couple of instances where the bits snapped, especially when drilling into thicker steel. This is somewhat expected given the nature of the tool, but it’s still a drawback. Proper lubrication and controlled speed can mitigate this issue to some extent, but it’s something to be aware of.

Practical Applications

For electricians, fabricators, and DIY enthusiasts, this set can be a real time-saver. I used the bits to drill and tap holes in steel tubing and metal electrical boxes. The ability to drill and tap in one step eliminates the need to switch between different tools, making the process more efficient. The countersink feature is particularly useful for creating clean, flush surfaces for screws.

However, I did miss the inclusion of a 6-32 bit, which is a common size for electrical work. The absence of a storage case or holder is another minor inconvenience. The bits tend to get lost in the tool bag, and a simple holder would have been a nice addition.

User Experience

Using the Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE set in an impact driver was a pleasant experience. The bits fit securely, and the impact mechanism helps in maintaining control during the tapping process. I found that using cutting oil improved the performance and longevity of the bits, especially in thicker materials. The threads produced were clean and accurate, with screws fitting perfectly without any wobble.

On the downside, using these bits in a drill driver requires a bit more finesse. The rapid advancement of the tap can lead to over-countersinking if not carefully controlled. Additionally, the bits are quite rigid and prone to snapping if bent or subjected to uneven pressure.

Recommendations

Overall, I would recommend the Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE 5 pc SAE Impact Drill Tap Set for its convenience and efficiency. The ability to drill, tap, and countersink in one operation is a significant advantage, particularly for those who need to create multiple threaded holes quickly. The set performs well in various materials, and the quick-change hex shank adds to its versatility.

However, it’s essential to use the set with care, especially in thicker or harder materials. Proper lubrication, controlled speed, and even pressure are key to preventing breakage. The absence of a 6-32 bit and a storage case are minor drawbacks, but they don’t significantly detract from the overall utility of the set.

In conclusion, if you frequently work with metal and need a reliable, efficient tool for drilling and tapping, the Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE set is a worthy investment. While it has some limitations in terms of durability, its performance and convenience make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.