Milwaukee Thunderbolt Black Oxide Drill Bit Set – 14PC

Drill bits are one of those essential items in any toolbox, and finding a reliable set can sometimes feel like finding a needle in a haystack. The Thunderbolt Black Oxide Drill Bit Set by Milwaukee, model 48-89-2800, promises to deliver durability, precision, and versatility. I've had the chance to put this set through its paces, tackling various materials and projects, and here's an objective look at how it performed.

First impressions matter, and the Milwaukee drill bit set does not disappoint. The bits come neatly organized in a high-quality case that is both functional and durable. The case design includes a slide latch for secure storage and easy access, which is particularly convenient for on-the-go use. The bits are held in custom slots that prevent mismatching, making it easy to keep everything organized.

One of the standout features of this drill bit set is the black oxide coating, which provides a significant advantage in terms of corrosion resistance. This is particularly important if you’re working in environments where the bits might be exposed to moisture. The black oxide coating helps to reduce friction and increase the life of the bit, although it’s essential to dry the bits off if they get wet to prevent rusting.

The set includes 14 different bit sizes, ranging from small to large, making it versatile enough for various applications. The 135° split point tip is especially noteworthy. This design allows for precise starts, reducing the tendency for the bit to walk across the surface before it begins to cut. This is crucial for achieving clean, accurate holes, particularly when working with harder materials.

During my tests, the performance of these bits was impressive. In wood, the bits cut through effortlessly, making clean and precise holes whether in softwood or hardwood. When drilling into drywall, the bits performed equally well, creating neat holes without causing any damage to the surrounding area.

Metal drilling can be more demanding, and this is often where many drill bits fall short. The Milwaukee bits handled metal drilling with aplomb. When drilling through thin metal sheets, they maintained their sharpness and showed little signs of wear. For thicker metal, such as steel, it’s essential to use a slower drill speed and apply some cutting oil. With these adjustments, the bits performed admirably, making clean cuts without overheating or dulling quickly.

One area where the performance was a bit mixed was with the smaller diameter bits. These bits are more prone to breaking under heavy use, which is not entirely unexpected. The thicker core design does provide added strength, but it's still wise to use a steady hand and appropriate pressure when working with smaller bits.

Another highlight of the set is the parabolic flute design, which helps to clear chips and debris quickly. This feature is particularly beneficial when drilling deeper holes, as it helps to keep the bit cool and prevents clogging, which can slow down the drilling process and cause additional wear on the bit.

While the majority of the bits in this set performed well, there were some minor frustrations. Out of the box, a few bits were a bit challenging to remove from the case. However, this issue resolved itself after a few uses as the slots loosened up. Additionally, while the majority of the bits maintained their sharpness, a few did dull quicker than expected, particularly when used on harder materials.

Despite these minor setbacks, the overall durability of the set is commendable. Even after extensive use, most of the bits remained sharp and capable of making clean cuts. The robust design of the larger bits ensures that they can handle more demanding tasks without breaking or losing their edge quickly.

In conclusion, the Thunderbolt Black Oxide Drill Bit Set by Milwaukee is a solid choice for both casual DIYers and more experienced users. The set’s standout features, including the black oxide coating, 135° split point tip, and parabolic flute design, contribute to its overall performance and durability. While there are minor issues with the smaller bits and initial tightness in the case, these do not overshadow the set’s strengths.

I would recommend this drill bit set for anyone looking for a versatile, durable, and well-designed set of bits that can handle a variety of materials. Whether you’re drilling into wood, plastic, or metal, this set provides the reliability and performance needed to get the job done effectively. The added benefit of a well-made case ensures that your bits stay organized and protected, making this set a valuable addition to any toolbox.