Milwaukee 9/16" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit

As a professional lineman, finding the right tool to drill clean, efficient holes in wooden utility poles is paramount. Recently, I had the opportunity to put the Milwaukee 9/16" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit to the test, and I must say, it has left quite an impression.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this auger bit is its robust construction. Milwaukee has designed this tool with a solid stem core, which adds a significant amount of durability. The 24-inch length is ideal for deep drilling tasks, allowing for versatile applications, whether it's utility poles, thick sills, or even large tree trunks.

One of the standout features is the single spur design. This design element is crucial because it scores the edge of the hole as you drill, resulting in a cleaner finish. This is particularly useful when you're working on projects where aesthetics matter, or when you need to ensure that the holes are free of splinters that could interfere with the integrity of the installation.

Performance

Performance-wise, this auger bit is a beast. I used it with a Milwaukee 1/2” impact driver, and the combination was phenomenal. The aggressive feed screw and cutting edge make drilling almost effortless. The bit pulls itself through the wood, requiring minimal force from the user. This self-feeding mechanism is a game-changer, especially when you're dealing with dense materials like Douglas Fir or pressure-treated wood.

The wide flute geometry is another feature worth mentioning. It facilitates faster chip removal, reducing the chances of clogging and significantly speeding up the drilling process. In my experience, this design element alone saves a considerable amount of time, especially when you're drilling multiple holes in quick succession.

Anti-Friction Coating

The bit is treated with an anti-friction PTFE coating, which I found to be incredibly effective. This coating reduces friction, making the drilling process smoother and preventing the bit from binding. In practical terms, this means you can drill more holes on a single battery charge if you're using a cordless impact driver. The coating also helps in bit removal; reversing the drill allows the bit to come out almost as quickly as it went in, thanks to the slick surface.

Practical Application

I tested this bit on various types of wood, including pine, oak, and even a large fallen tree. In each case, the bit performed exceptionally well. For instance, when drilling through a 15-inch pine trunk, the bit took just 27 seconds to complete the task at 300 RPM. That's impressive speed and efficiency, which can be attributed to the aggressive feed screw and the wide flute design.

Another practical application was drilling through 6" x 6" Douglas Fir posts for a nautical-themed fence project. The bit cut through the wood like a hot knife through butter, leaving clean, splinter-free holes. This level of performance is particularly beneficial for professional linemen who need reliable tools to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with any tool, and this auger bit does not disappoint. After drilling multiple holes, the bit showed no signs of wear. The solid stem core and high-quality materials used in its construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use. Even after extensive use, the bit retained its sharpness and continued to perform at a high level.

User Experience

Using this auger bit was a pleasant experience overall. The 7/16" hex shank allows for quick and secure attachment to the chuck, and the bit feels well-balanced during operation. However, it's worth noting that you do need a strong drill to handle this bit, especially if you're working with dense materials. A cordless impact driver with a high torque setting is ideal for this purpose.

One minor drawback I encountered was that the bit can get quite hot after prolonged use. This is something to be mindful of, especially if you're drilling multiple holes in quick succession. Allowing the bit to cool down between uses can help mitigate this issue.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Robust construction with a solid stem core
- Single spur design for cleaner holes
- Anti-friction PTFE coating for smoother drilling
- Wide flute geometry for faster chip removal
- Aggressive feed screw and cutting edge for efficient drilling
- Long-lasting durability

Cons:
- Requires a strong drill for optimal performance
- Bit can get hot after prolonged use

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 9/16" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit is a top-tier tool that delivers on its promises. Its robust design, exceptional performance, and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any professional's toolkit. Whether you're a lineman, a carpenter, or a DIY enthusiast working on large wood projects, this bit is a reliable choice.

I would highly recommend this auger bit for anyone who needs to drill deep, clean holes in wood. Its efficiency, durability, and ease of use make it a standout tool that is well worth the investment.