Small weird question regarding bits
I've noticed Makita gold bits in particular have this very thin part to them. How does this not compromise the structural strength of the bit?
Posted Feb 16, 2019, 9:54 AM UTC
210
It is there to allow the bit to flex under torque, as to not shatter. Regular bits are all the same diameter, but since that doesn't allow any flex to the bit, they eventually shatter. If you look at "impact rated" bits, they all have those torsion zones.
It might seem gimmicky, but I am a Cabinet Builder/ Installer and i use my drills and impact drivers everyday and in my experience it does make a difference. When I use regular bits , they tend to shatter at the tip after a while, under torque. When i use impact rated bits , they rarely shatter. They only wear out once the bit becomes deformed from camming out.
Also ime, the Makita Gold Phillips are probably the best bits you can buy at the store , but the square drive is not that great. Taiwanese made bits are also really great
4
Thanks for the detailed explanation!
2
Totally agree. I use impact drivers and impact bits every day, they NEVER break at the thin point, always at the tip. I don't know if the impact rated bits are longer lasting because of the flex zone thing (maybe it does something, but the whole concept strikes me as more marketing wank than anything), or just because they're higher quality, but they do work well.
2
I think we need a picture, friend.
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Here you go:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Makita-Impact-GOLD-2-Philips-Steel-Insert-Bit-15-Piece-B-34958/203696802
1
You can buy these 15 pc bits with a bit holder for 8$ on Amazon
1
Aren't that style of bits for impact drivers? By that I mean the thin center part
1
I don't know honestly. Not familiar with impact drivers at all.
1
Yes
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In theory yes, a bit like that would be weaker than one without the removed material. I think the thought process is that the thinner shank allows the bit to flex a little which absorbs some of the energy that would otherwise break it. In practice they break at the tips 99% of the time so it all end up being marketing filler anyways