Milwaukee 7/8" Diamond Ultra Wet Core Bit

Drilling into reinforced concrete can be quite the challenge, especially when rebar is involved. Enter the 7/8" Diamond Ultra Wet Core Bit from Milwaukee, a tool designed specifically for such tough tasks. As someone who frequently works with concrete, I was eager to see how this bit would perform under real-world conditions.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the 7/8" Diamond Ultra Wet Core Bit feels robust. Weighing in at just over half a pound, it strikes a good balance between heft and maneuverability. The diamond-coated segments are designed to provide effective drilling performance, and Milwaukee claims these thin kerf segments ensure a longer run time compared to previous models.

The bit is compatible with both MX FUEL Core Drills and corded core drills, adding to its versatility. The 5/8"-11 thread makes it easy to attach to most standard core drills, and the 13-inch drilling depth is more than sufficient for most construction needs. The maximum RPM of 3010 ensures that the bit can handle high-speed drilling without compromising its integrity.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the 7/8" Diamond Ultra Wet Core Bit shows its strengths and weaknesses. On standard concrete, the bit performs admirably. The cutting is smooth, and the bit maintains its sharpness over multiple uses. The wet drilling feature is particularly useful, as it helps to keep the bit cool and reduce dust, making the work environment safer and more comfortable.

However, the real test for any concrete bit is its ability to handle rebar. In my experience, the bit struggled here. While it did manage to cut through some rebar, it wasn't without difficulty. The bit's diamond segments showed noticeable wear after just a few holes, and in one instance, the bit's head started to break apart. This was disappointing, especially considering the bit's premium price.

Durability

Durability is a mixed bag with this Milwaukee bit. On the one hand, it excels in drilling through standard concrete and masonry materials like brick and stone. On the other hand, its performance dips significantly when rebar is involved. The diamond coating, while effective, doesn't seem to hold up as well under the stress of cutting through metal.

That said, proper use can extend the bit's life. Keeping the drilling site wet and using appropriate pressure can mitigate some of the wear and tear. It's also worth noting that Milwaukee offers a range of bit sizes, so choosing the right bit for the job can make a difference.

Usability

Usability is one of the strong points of this core bit. The thin kerf segments make for easier and faster drilling. The bit's design ensures that it stays centered, reducing wobble and making it easier to control. The 13-inch drilling depth is more than adequate for most applications, and the bit's compatibility with various drills adds to its convenience.

However, there are some caveats. The bit requires a specific type of drill with a 5/8"-11 thread, which may not be standard for all users. Additionally, the bit's performance with rebar means that it may not be the best choice for all concrete drilling tasks.

Value for Money

Given its premium price, the 7/8" Diamond Ultra Wet Core Bit from Milwaukee is an investment. For standard concrete drilling, it performs well and offers good value. However, its struggles with rebar make it a less attractive option for those who frequently encounter reinforced concrete.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 7/8" Diamond Ultra Wet Core Bit is a solid choice for those who need to drill through standard concrete and masonry materials. Its design and build quality are impressive, and it performs well in most situations. However, its performance with rebar leaves something to be desired, and its durability under such conditions is questionable.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends on your specific needs. If you primarily work with standard concrete and occasionally encounter rebar, this bit will serve you well. Its ease of use and effective performance in standard conditions make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. However, if you frequently deal with reinforced concrete, you might want to consider other options or be prepared to replace the bit more frequently.

In summary, the Milwaukee 7/8" Diamond Ultra Wet Core Bit is a capable tool with some limitations. Its strengths in standard concrete drilling make it a good choice for many, but its struggles with rebar mean it may not be the best fit for everyone.