[OP]
Contributor
OK, I'm a knucklehead. I cannot remember (or find which is unusual) the one of our favorite mags that did reviews on brad point bits. After trying and dislikeing several 'inexpensive' types I realize I need to step up. Does anyone recall the mag that drilled 1000 holes apiece on about a dozen different brands of bits?
TIA,
Glenn
"A hen is only an egg's way of making another egg".
– Samuel Butler
Member
Sorry, I didn't see the article Glenn. But Lee Valley's bits do a really good job for me. I had one bit that didn't last. They replaced it quickly.
David
Originally Posted by glenn bradley
Guest
Glenn,
I remember that article and think Lee Valley was the winner. If I was you I would get the ones with the lips that will give you a nice clean entry hole.
Also, don't waste your money on "high carbon" drill bits. They get hot real fast and that results in a dull bit. Spend a little more and get HSS drill bits, they will practically last forever , drilling wood.
Gary K.
In Memoriam
I think it was Fine Woodworking
"All great work starts with love .... then it is no longer work"
Member
FWW #180, Dec. 2005
Kris
Member
I read that article and needed a 1/4" bit so I bought one from Lee Valley. I just used it a couple days ago on 3/4" oak veneer plywood and I was not happy. I tore the veneer pretty badly. My old made in China carbide tipped drill bit worked a lot better. I haven't had time to persue the issue.
If sawdust were gold, I'd be rich!
Byron Trantham
Fredericksburg, VA
WUD WKR1
Member
I think it was in WOOD magazine just a couple months ago.
I use mostly China import brad point bits and am completely satisfied with them.
Member
I recall the article and the Lee Valley bits won. That would be the good LV bits. They also have some inexpensive ones that did poorly.
Jay St. Peter
Member
That's right! Also, be aware that they are very speed sensitive. The fragile lips of any of them can heat quickly. DAMHIKT But I think my speed was only over recommended by 200 rpm. That wouldn't have made any real difference with a common twist drill.
David
Guest
It bears repeating......HSS.
Gary K.
Member
IMHO there is no need to buy expensive Brad point drill bits.
You can make them yourself by just grinding normal bits to the shape on your bench grinder with a 1/8" (3mm or 2mm) white wheel.
When they get dull or damaged, its just simply a matter of touching them up again. Providing you don't break the drill bit in half or lose them, they should last you forever.
You can make them from probably anything down to 4-5mm all the way up to whatever you want. Just like a spade bit.
Member
I think WL Fuller has the best products. Go to the website and request a catalog. These people do this for a living and are very good.
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