Milwaukee 5/8" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit

Drilling large, precise holes in dense materials can be a daunting task, but the Milwaukee 5/8" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit makes it surprisingly manageable. This auger bit is specifically designed for drilling through wooden utility poles, but its versatility extends to other heavy-duty woodworking tasks, such as building docks, decks, or even treehouses. My time with this tool has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing why Milwaukee continues to be a trusted name in the tool industry.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon unboxing the Milwaukee auger bit, the first thing I noticed was its solid construction. The bit is 24 inches long with a 5/8-inch diameter, providing ample reach for deep drilling tasks. It comes housed in a sturdy, screw-on plastic tube, ensuring it remains protected during transport and storage. This thoughtful packaging is a small but significant touch, especially for professionals who need to keep their tools in top condition.

The bit itself features a PTFE coating, which promises to reduce friction and enhance drilling efficiency. This coating gives the bit a sleek, black finish that not only looks good but also feels durable. The single spur design is another standout feature, aimed at producing cleaner holes by minimizing tear-out. This is particularly useful when precision is critical.

Performance and Efficiency

To test the bit's capabilities, I started with some landscape railroad cross ties, stacked three high. Using an old 1950s vintage heavy 500 RPM drill, the bit performed admirably, maintaining its efficiency from the first hole to the tenth. The aggressive feed screw and cutting edge pulled the bit through the dense ties with minimal effort, and the wide flute design efficiently ejected wood chips, preventing clogs and ensuring a smooth drilling experience.

Next, I tackled a more challenging task: drilling through a 15-inch diameter pine trunk. For this, I used a cordless holehog-type driver set to 300 RPM. Astonishingly, the bit took just 27 seconds to bore through the entire trunk. This level of performance is a testament to the bit's design and the effectiveness of the PTFE coating. The bit remained clean and free of pine sap, ready for the next task without needing any maintenance.

Versatility and Ease of Use

The Milwaukee auger bit isn't just for utility poles; its applications are varied. I used it for installing outside outlets, drilling through wooden studs and poles with ease. The pilot tip prevents the bit from wandering when starting a hole, ensuring accuracy even in tough materials. The 7/16" hex shank is compatible with quick connect chucks, making it easy to switch between tools without hassle.

One of the most impressive aspects of this bit is its ability to handle different types of wood without compromising on performance. Whether it's pressure-treated lumber, green wood, or even live trees, the bit cuts through like butter. This versatility makes it an invaluable addition to any toolkit, especially for those who frequently work on large-scale woodworking projects.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is a key consideration for any tool, and the Milwaukee auger bit does not disappoint. After multiple uses, the bit showed no signs of wear or damage. The PTFE coating remained intact, and the cutting edges were as sharp as they were out of the box. This durability ensures that the bit will provide consistent performance over a long period, making it a worthwhile investment.

However, it's worth noting that there were a couple of instances where the bit had a wobble right out of the box. While this seems to be an anomaly rather than the norm, it's something to be aware of. Milwaukee's customer service is typically responsive, so any issues with defective bits can likely be resolved quickly.

Practical Tips for Use

Using a bit of this size and power requires some practical know-how to ensure safety and efficiency. When drilling deep holes, for instance, it's advisable to put the drill in reverse to remove the bit from the material. The bit's aggressive feed screw means it comes out faster than it went in, so blipping the drill at low speed can prevent any sudden jerks that might throw you off balance.

Another tip is to use the bit with a powerful, low RPM drill for optimal control. High-speed drills can make it difficult to manage the bit's aggressive cutting action, potentially leading to less precise holes and increased wear on the bit.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Milwaukee 5/8" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit is a high-performing, versatile, and durable tool that excels in a variety of heavy-duty woodworking tasks. Its aggressive feed screw, wide flute design, and PTFE coating work harmoniously to provide a smooth, efficient drilling experience. The bit's ability to maintain its sharpness and cleanliness even after extensive use is a testament to its quality craftsmanship.

While the occasional wobble issue is a minor drawback, it doesn't overshadow the overall excellence of this tool. For professionals and serious DIYers who need to drill large, precise holes in dense materials, the Milwaukee auger bit is an excellent choice. Its performance, durability, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Milwaukee 5/8" x 24" Lineman's Impact Auger Bit. Whether you're working on utility poles, building a dock, or installing outdoor outlets, this bit delivers reliable, efficient performance that will help you get the job done quickly and accurately.