Milwaukee 5 Piece Switchblade Selfeed Bit Plumber's Kit

Using the Milwaukee 5 Piece Switchblade Selfeed Bit Plumber's Kit has been a game-changer for my plumbing and renovation projects. This kit is designed to simplify and speed up the process of drilling large diameter holes in wood, a task that is common in plumbing work. The kit includes four selfeed bits of various sizes, a universal Quik-Lok extension, extra feed screws, set screws, replacement blades, and a hex wrench—all housed in a sturdy carrying case.

One of the standout features of this kit is the replaceable blades. Traditional selfeed bits require sharpening when they become dull, which can be time-consuming and impractical on a busy job site. Milwaukee has cleverly addressed this issue by allowing the blades to be easily swapped out. This feature alone significantly reduces downtime. If you hit a nail or screw and damage the blade, you can quickly replace it and continue working without interruption. The replacement blades are affordable and readily available, making this a cost-effective solution in the long run.

The aggressive feed screw design is another highlight. These bits pull themselves through the wood with minimal effort, reducing the physical strain on the user. This self-feeding action is particularly useful when drilling through multiple studs, as it ensures a straight and consistent hole. I used these bits with a heavy-duty 18V drill, and while they performed admirably, I would recommend using a drill designed for high-torque applications, such as Milwaukee’s Hole Hawg, for the best results. The Quik-Lok extension is a breeze to use, snapping into place securely and allowing for quick bit changes.

The construction quality of these bits is top-notch. The hardened steel replacement blades and feed screws are built to last. The set screws hold the feed screws in place securely, preventing any slipping during use. The bits also feature engraved sizes, making it easy to quickly identify the right bit for the job. The sizes included in the kit—1-3/8", 1-1/2", 2-1/8", and 2-9/16"—cover the most common needs for plumbing tasks, whether you’re working with supply lines, waste, or vent pipes.

Using these bits, I noticed how fast and efficient they are compared to traditional hole saws. They shave away wood rather than drilling out a plug, which can save a significant amount of time. However, this does result in a lot of wood shavings, so be prepared for a bit of a mess. Despite this, the speed and ease of use make these bits an invaluable addition to any plumber’s toolkit.

The carrying case deserves a special mention. It’s robust and well-organized, keeping all the bits and accessories securely in place. The case is compact enough to fit into my tool bag, making it easy to transport to and from job sites. The inclusion of the extension, spare blades, feed screws, and set screws ensures that you have everything you need on hand, reducing the risk of being caught short in the middle of a job.

While the majority of my experience with this kit has been overwhelmingly positive, there are a couple of minor drawbacks worth noting. The bits are highly aggressive and may struggle with hardwoods, especially if the blades are not perfectly sharp. This is a small trade-off considering the replaceable blade feature, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re working with harder materials. Additionally, these bits are not designed for use with a drill press due to their self-feeding nature. For drill press applications, a Forstner bit would be a more suitable choice.

In terms of performance, these bits exceed expectations. They cut through 2x material with ease, and the self-feeding action makes the process almost effortless. The smaller bits are perfect for running water lines, while the larger bits handle waste and vent pipes with no issues. The ability to stack extensions ensures you can drill through multiple studs without losing alignment, a feature that’s particularly useful in complex plumbing installations.

Overall, the Milwaukee 5 Piece Switchblade Selfeed Bit Plumber's Kit is a well-designed, high-quality solution for anyone who needs to drill large holes in wood regularly. The replaceable blades, aggressive feed screws, and sturdy construction make this kit a reliable and efficient tool for both professional plumbers and serious DIY enthusiasts. The convenience of having all the necessary sizes and accessories in one durable case further enhances its value.

I would highly recommend this kit to anyone in the plumbing or construction industry. Its combination of durability, ease of use, and time-saving features make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIYer tackling a major renovation, this kit will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.