Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit

As someone who frequently tackles tough drilling tasks, I recently had the opportunity to test out the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit (Model 48-89-2308). This bit is marketed as a durable, high-performance option designed to handle hard metals, wood, and PVC. Given its promising features and Milwaukee's strong reputation, I was eager to see how it would perform in a variety of real-world applications.

Initial Impressions and Build Quality

Straight out of the package, the Cobalt Red Helix bit feels solid and well-crafted. The cobalt alloy construction promises increased lifespan compared to black oxide drill bits, and the 135° split point tip is designed for precise starting. The bit also features a variable helix design for effective chip removal and a 3-flat secure grip to prevent slippage in the chuck. The attention to detail in its design is evident, and I was optimistic about its performance.

Performance on Mild and Hardened Steel

My first test involved drilling through a piece of 1/4" mild steel using a cordless drill at a medium speed with some cutting fluid. The bit performed admirably, cutting through the material with ease and producing clean, precise holes. The variable helix design did a great job of removing chips, which helped maintain a steady drilling pace without clogging.

Next, I moved on to a more challenging task: drilling through a 3/16" thick hardened steel plate. Here, the Cobalt Red Helix bit continued to impress. Using a drill press at a low speed and plenty of cutting fluid, the bit maintained its sharpness and drilled several holes without significant wear. The dual cutting angles proved effective, and the bit's accuracy was noteworthy, staying true to its mark without walking.

Tackling Stainless Steel

Given its claims, I was particularly interested in how the bit would handle stainless steel—known for its toughness and difficulty to drill. I used the bit to enlarge holes in some stainless steel brackets and quickly noticed a drop in performance. Despite using cutting oil and maintaining a low drill speed, the bit struggled and dulled after just a few holes. It became evident that while the bit is capable of drilling stainless steel, its lifespan and efficiency in this material are limited.

Performance on Other Materials

Testing the bit on other materials like wood and PVC yielded positive results. The bit quickly and cleanly drilled through both materials without any issues. The 135° split point tip ensured precise starting points, even without a pilot hole, and the variable helix design effectively managed chip removal. For woodworking and PVC projects, this bit performs exceptionally well and could easily become a go-to tool in any DIY enthusiast's arsenal.

Durability and Edge Retention

Durability and edge retention are critical factors for any drill bit, especially one marketed for hard metal applications. In my testing, the Cobalt Red Helix bit showed commendable durability when used on mild steel and wood. However, when subjected to more demanding tasks like hardened and stainless steel, the bit's edge retention was less impressive. It dulled relatively quickly and required frequent resharpening to maintain its effectiveness. This limited its utility for prolonged use in tougher materials.

Usability and Handling

One of the standout features of this bit is the 3-flat secure grip, which effectively prevents slippage in the chuck. This design ensures a secure and stable drilling experience, whether using a handheld drill or a drill press. Additionally, the bit's variable helix design and 135° split point tip contribute to a user-friendly experience, making it easier to achieve precise and clean holes without excessive effort.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit offers a mix of strengths and weaknesses. It excels in drilling mild steel, wood, and PVC, providing clean and precise holes with ease. The bit's build quality, variable helix design, and 3-flat secure grip are noteworthy features that enhance its usability.

However, its performance on harder materials like stainless steel and hardened steel is less stellar. While it can handle these materials to some extent, its edge retention and overall durability fall short in prolonged use. This makes it less suitable for heavy-duty applications frequently involving hard metals.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit? It depends on your needs. If you're primarily working with mild steel, wood, or PVC, this bit is a reliable and efficient choice that offers good value for money. Its design and craftsmanship make it a solid addition to any toolkit for these materials.

However, if your projects frequently involve drilling through hardened or stainless steel, you may want to consider other options with better edge retention and longevity in such demanding applications. In summary, while the Milwaukee Cobalt Red Helix Drill Bit has its merits, it's essential to match the tool to the task for the best results.