As you might have noticed from our sidebar ad (if you’re browsing from a laptop or desktop computer), Klein has come out with a new line of holemaking tools – namely drill bits and hole saws.
The new products include bi-metal hole saws, double-fluted step drill bits (like Milwaukee’s USA-made step bits), and wood-boring bits. Klein’s holemaking lineup already includes carbide hole cutters, ship-auger drill bits, knockout punches, and flexible drill bits.
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These new tools are designed for heavy-duty use. They’re said to offer fast and superior cutting, and are engineered for longer-lasting performance and higher durability compared to Klein’s previous models.
Klein also says that these new bits and hole saws cut holes quicker, cleaner, and easier, making them more productive on the job.
The bi-metal hole saws are optimized for cutting steel, and can handle stainless steel as well. They could also be used on drywall, ceiling tile, laminate materials, as well as wood and plastic.
The double-fluted step drill bits have easy-read silver markings for common hole sizes, non-walking tips, 3/8″ shanks, and the double-fluted design means they cut faster than single-flute step bits.
The wood-boring drill bits feature a new “low-torque design” that is said to reduce user wrist fatigue, compared to standard auger bits.They feature a unique head shape that helps to minimize vibration, compared to ordinary spade/paddle bits.
Klein also says you can “easily change direction when drilling holes to customize the shape,” and from the demo video it looks like this means you can easily pivot the drill to change the hole shape and angle.
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Additionally, the new wood drill bits have easy-to-sharpen cutting blades, and an easy-to-replace pilot screw shaft.
fred
The 35mm wood bring bit might be of interest to my ex-compatriots. We were using Festool 496476 Zoo bits (more like a Forstner style) – which were a bit hard to find and pricey. We used these for both flat-bottom recess drilling and for through holes If the Klein cuts a decent hole and is priced right – it should be a hit for through drilling applications.
fred
Looking at the link to the Klein page – it says about the 3 wood bits:
“Unique cutting head design allows you to customize the hold (sic) shape.”
Vermont American (now part of Bosch?) used to make something they called “Around-The-Corner Bits” in 7/8 (UPC 045325145517) and 1-1/8 inch (UPC 045325145524) sizes – that could be rocked a bit while drilling – so as to cut an elbow-like hole. Maybe these Klein bits have the same ability. Anyway EBay seems to be the only source (maybe new old stock) for the VA bits now:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vermont-American-Around-the-Corner-1-1-8-Wood-Boring-Drill-Bit-14552-/321791432677
Yadda
Neat, I believe the wood bits and the step drill bits will go on the long term list as a gift to myself.
Hang Fire
I’m glad Klein is bringing back hole making as the focus of their drill bits. For too long, the market has been confused by too much emphasis on other aspects of drill bits.
Dave L.
I have a few of these:
http://www.amazon.com/Milwaukee-49-22-8002-5-Piece-Pathfinder-Bit/dp/B00004U0X5/
They seem to have stopped making them but you may be able to find them on the net. Real good for wire chase drilling.
fred
I forgot completely about these – As I recall they were made in the USA.
Third-party sellers on Amazon seem to be selling some of the individual pieces:
You might check on Milwaukee Part Numbers 48-13-8000 through 48-13-8005.
http://www.amazon.com/MILWAUKEE-48-13-8000-PATHFINDER-WOODBORING-BIT/dp/B000VS9NEU
Noah
Reminds me a lot of the Rover Bits from Bad Dog Tools.
http://www.baddogtools.com/rover-bits.html
fred
Has anyone tried these or other Bad Dog drill bits? The company is in Bristol RI – but chatter on the web says that the tools are made in China – and some of their metalworking drill bits get very poor reviews.
Brad
My experience with the Bad Dog bits wasn’t good. I killed several of them and sent them back for free re-sharpening as promised in their warranty. They sharpened them and returned to me; I’ve since killed some of those.
And yes, I know they require hi-speed. I’ve only used them with my 120V drill.
Thanks
Thanks
Their wood-boring (Rover) bits also get some pretty bad reviews on the internet
fred
I mis-posted the part numbers – should be 48-13-8000 through 48-18-8007. The kit was 5 piece – but Milwaukee made 8 sizes from 1/4 to 1-1/4 inch. I think that they hit the market in early 2001.
Athanasios
I use step up bits all the time. I just got the klein #11 step up bit. I’m going to see if it’s any good I have to make a lot of holes for a panel were installing. It sucks when your step up bit goes. They’re expensive
Omar Gonzalez
The Klein new Step drill big sucks and more if you have apprentice,when you helper broken the bit ,theHome Depot say you void the warranty.So you trow you money in the toilet(61.00 dollars)Greenlee is better and cheaper proof.Also made in USA not China
Johannes Nordnes
Curious :
Some years ago i bought a pair of ” pathfinder Bits” – 5/8×5-1/4 zize.
these tools have been performing very satifactory for my use, (hobby work).
the only thing i wonder about is a number of wery thin steel “leafs” enclosed in
the “packages” containing the tools. these “steel leaves” are app. 50 x 5 x 0,001 mm
(L x with x thk.ness).
What are these items intended for ?
Stuart
I can’t find any information about what it could be. Sounds like feeler gauges, but that doesn’t seem fitting for drill bits like that. Maybe for… I really don’t know. Helping to remove the bits in a similar fashion as a shoe horn?? I found a user manual online, but there’s no mention of accessories like that.