Milwaukee S&D Black Oxide Drill Bit

When you need a reliable drill bit that can handle various materials with ease, the Milwaukee S&D Black Oxide Drill Bit, model number 48-89-2757, is a solid contender. This tool is designed with durability and performance in mind, and it certainly delivers on those fronts.

One of the standout features of this drill bit is its 135° split point tip. This design allows for precise drilling, minimizing bit walking and ensuring that you start exactly where you intend to. This precision is particularly useful when working on metal surfaces, where any deviation can lead to suboptimal results. I found that this bit consistently starts cleanly without the need for a pilot hole, which can save a significant amount of time and effort on a variety of projects.

The black oxide coating is another notable feature. This coating provides excellent corrosion resistance, which is essential for maintaining the tool's longevity. Additionally, the lubricity offered by the black oxide finish helps reduce friction during drilling, which in turn reduces heat build-up. This helps keep the bit sharp and effective over extended use. In my experience, the bit maintained its edge well, even after multiple uses on different materials such as metal, wood, and PVC.

The 3-Flat Secure-Grip™ shank is designed to provide a secure hold in the drill chuck, preventing any slippage during operation. This feature is particularly important when working with tougher materials where the bit might be prone to slipping. The shank design also makes it compatible with 1/2" chucks, which adds to its versatility. During my tests, the bit held firmly in the chuck, and I didn't experience any slippage, even under heavy load.

One of the practical aspects of this drill bit is its reduced shank diameter, which makes it compatible with a range of drill sizes. This is particularly useful for those who may not have a drill with a large chuck. The flute length of 3 inches is adequate for most tasks and helps in efficiently clearing chips away from the drilling area. This contributes to smoother operation and less clogging, which can be a common issue with other bits.

Performance-wise, the bit excels in drilling through wood. I found that it cuts through wood like butter, with minimal effort and excellent speed. There's no hesitation, and the holes are clean and precise. When it comes to metal, the bit performs admirably as well, although it requires a bit more pressure and patience. The bit's strength is evident, and it cuts through metal with relative ease, leaving clean edges.

However, it's worth noting that the bit may struggle with extremely hard materials. For instance, I encountered difficulty when attempting to drill through a tractor draw bar. This isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, as most users will not require the bit for such demanding tasks, but it's something to keep in mind if you're planning on working with particularly tough metals.

The craftsmanship of the Milwaukee S&D Black Oxide Drill Bit is commendable. It's a well-made tool that feels robust and reliable. The quality is evident from the moment you pick it up, and it performs consistently well across a range of tasks. I appreciate that it's made in the USA, which often speaks to higher manufacturing standards and quality control.

In terms of value, this drill bit is priced competitively, especially considering its performance and durability. It's a worthwhile investment for anyone who frequently needs to drill through various materials. The bit's longevity means you won't have to replace it frequently, saving you money in the long run.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Milwaukee S&D Black Oxide Drill Bit to both amateur and professional users. Its precision, durability, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While it may not be the best choice for drilling through the hardest of metals, it excels in most other applications, providing clean, precise holes with minimal effort. The combination of a 135° split point tip, black oxide coating, and secure-grip shank ensures that this bit will perform reliably and efficiently, making it a tool you can count on.