Milwaukee #9 Step Drill Bit, 7/8" & 1-1/8"

Drilling holes in metal and plastic can be a demanding task, and finding a reliable step drill bit is essential for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. I recently had the opportunity to use the Milwaukee #9 Step Drill Bit, model 48-89-9209, which is designed for creating holes in metal and plastic surfaces. With its dual-flute design and other notable features, it promised a lot. However, reality can sometimes be different from expectations.

The first thing I noticed about this Milwaukee step drill bit was its robust build and the black oxide coating that gives it a sleek appearance. The coating is not just for aesthetics, though; it is meant to enhance the bit's durability by reducing friction and heat buildup during use. The bit also boasts a dual-flute design, which theoretically should improve drilling speed and control by allowing the bit to cut more efficiently and eject chips more effectively.

A standout feature is the rapid strike tip, engineered to ensure fast and accurate starts. This is particularly useful because it minimizes bit walking, which can be an issue with standard drill bits. The bit has a Secure-Grip shank designed to reduce slippage in the drill chuck, an appreciated feature when you realize how frustrating it can be to constantly re-tighten a slipping bit.

One of the first projects I tackled with this bit was drilling holes in a metal control box for an electrical installation. I appreciated the laser-engraved reference marks, which made it easy to achieve accurate hole sizes. However, I quickly found that the bit's performance was inconsistent depending on the material.

In softer metals and plastics, the Milwaukee step drill bit performed admirably. It cut through PVC pipe like butter, and reaming out the desired hole size was effortless. Similarly, drilling through thin sheet metal was straightforward, and the bit maintained its sharpness over multiple uses. In these scenarios, the bit’s dual-flute design indeed made a noticeable difference in speed and control, and the bit generated less heat, extending its lifespan.

However, the bit struggled significantly when faced with harder metals. Drilling through 1/4" steel was a different story. The bit became hot very quickly, and its cutting efficiency dropped off after just a few holes. Despite using cutting oil to mitigate heat buildup, the bit dulled faster than expected. This was disappointing, especially considering the bit’s premium price point.

The Secure-Grip shank did its job well, and I never experienced slippage while using the bit. Nonetheless, the difficulty in harder metals detracted from the overall experience. For professionals who need a reliable bit for various job site materials, this inconsistency could be a deal-breaker.

Storage is another aspect where the Milwaukee step drill bit could use improvement. The packaging, while protective initially, doesn’t lend itself to long-term storage. After opening, you’re left to find your own storage solution to keep the bit sharp and in good condition. For a bit in this price range, a dedicated storage case would have been a valuable addition.

Despite these issues, the bit has its merits. It’s incredibly efficient in softer materials and offers clear advantages in terms of speed and ease of use. The dual-flute design and Secure-Grip shank work together to make drilling quicker and more secure. For those who primarily work with plastics and thin metals, this bit could be a worthwhile investment.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee #9 Step Drill Bit, model 48-89-9209, is a mixed bag. It excels in softer materials and offers several innovative features that enhance its usability and efficiency. However, its performance in harder metals leaves much to be desired. The rapid dulling and heat buildup are significant drawbacks that cannot be ignored, especially given its premium price. If your work primarily involves softer materials, this bit might be a good fit for you. For more demanding applications involving harder metals, you might want to consider other options.

Ultimately, I would cautiously recommend the Milwaukee step drill bit. It’s a high-quality tool with great potential, but it’s not without its limitations. Understanding what those are and how they align with your specific needs will determine whether this bit is the right choice for you.