Rockler Power Bore Drill Bit Set

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WOOD magazine rating

Power Bore Bits clear chips for faster, cooler drilling

4.8

out of 5

Average reader rating

1.3

out of 5

Brand:

Rockler

Model:

31345

Price:

$70

Description

* Perimeter spur cuts cleanly
* 9-Piece Set includes bits in diameters: 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 7/16", 1/2", 9/16", 5/8", 11/16" and 3/4", and comes in a convenient plastic storage case
* Overall lengths are from 4.25" to 6.5"
* Flute lengths are from 2.75" to 4.5"
* All shanks designed to fit 3/8" chuck or larger

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WOOD magazine review

Power Bore Bits clear chips for faster, cooler drilling

Reviewed by: WOOD Magazine

Review Summary

This is one of those “Why didn’t I think of it?” products. Rockler’s Power Bore drill bits clear chips much faster than ordinary twist bits or brad-point bits, while still cutting crisp, precise holes. These bits remind me of those inside hollow mortising chisels. Each has a centerpoint for accurate placement, a single shear-spur to cut the hole, and steeply angled flutes that evacuate chips from inside a hole without plugging.

…

I drilled multiple holes into 2"-thick red oak and hard maple with the Power Bore bits as well as standard twist bits and brad-point bits of the same diameter. The Power Bore bits never plugged, and I didn’t once have to back them out of the holes. By comparison, I could go only 1" deep with the brad-point bits and 3⁄4" deep with the twist bits before plugging the flutes. No plugging means less heat buildup that dulls the bits. The nine-piece set comes in a plastic storage case and contains the following sizes (in inches): 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, and 3/4. —Tested by Pat Lowry

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Detailed Ratings

4.8

out of 5

Performance

Features

Ease of Use

Value

Reader Reviews

Power Bore problems

Reviewed by: mhtsw

Review Summary

The set of Power Bore bits I recieved from Rockler were roughly finished, dead soft, and the 5/16 bit was bent. They performed no better than they looked. Holes drilled at 485 rpm in Maple were not on size, and the bits burned very easily. Drilling required excessive pressure, and was done on a new Delta 17 in drill press with the workpiece clamped to the table.

…

IMHO this reinforces the adage that you don't get something for nothing - if you want a Colt bit, buy a Colt bit, not a knockoff.

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