So Bosch now offers not just one but two different masonry bit designs: Bulldog bits, designed for fast drilling through light-to-normal weight concrete, and now also a tougher line targeted for use in “reinforced concrete or harsh aggregate.” They call it the Bulldog Xtreme.
Cheesy X-name aside, this bit sounds like it has some design pedegree. For example, the new bit features a solid-head carbide design, which Bosch claims helps it drill more quickly through nasty stuff (like rebar) while wearing down less at the same time as compared to other carbide-tipped bits. And Bosch utilizes a variety of manufacturing technologies to make the Xtreme, too, including a “proprietary diffusion-bonding technology” and a “high-heat, high-pressure solid state welding process” to keep the bits’ carbide and steel in one piece.
Also of interest: a bit shape design that incorporates a conical tip into the flutes in a way that Bosch suggests produces rounder holes — the better for setting anchors or fasteners.
I know. All this jargon gets boring fast (pun intended). But hey — if the bit actually works better, it really does make a difference to those who drill more than one or two holes at a time, which includes the majority of masonry pros. We haven’t tried ‘em out yet, but we look forward to giving them a go.
Look for these on shelves soon, in sizes from 3/16″ to 1-1/8″.
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4 Responses to Some Serious Bit Design
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{ I own the ridgid one. Have had it for a few years now. Ever since I picked it up I have had no need to... } – May 23, 8:05 PM
{ Had a Honda walk behind bought new in 1990,constantly abused it mowing in sand and dust I was bad with oil changes and maintainence. It... } – May 23, 5:52 PM
{ Milwaukee and DeWalt have both had bit holders with retaining rings for some time. I've always felt Irwin's phillips bits were a bit too rounded,... } – May 23, 5:12 PM
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Any idea of the price range?
I hate drilling concrete. So I would even spring for a small kit of these, for when I need to mount things in the basement. I of course want to see the pricing first.
ShopMonger
The more Tools the Better
here ya go guys:
http://www.drillbitssite.com/store/tungsten-carbide-drill-bits/bosch-hcfc2010-3-16-x-4-sds-plus-bulldog-xtreme-rotary-hammer-bit-1265400006197184/
I’ve never had much trouble drilling through concrete “fast enough” and the holes have always seemed plenty round enough for anchors. Then again, I’ve only had to hold down hydrogen fueling pumps that don’t take much load.
What I’d like to see in cutter improvements would be:
1. Diamond coated bits, even water cooled, heat up way too fast and take way too long to cut through porcelain. It’s tiring and cumbersome when drilling on an installed tile on a vertical wall.
2. Grooves, channels, slots, etc are usually made with round bits. Corners can be squared off with chisels in wood, maybe a file in aluminum but forget about anything else. When are we going to see something like this japanese square drill bit hit the mainstream? Sure beats a mortising jig http://youtu.be/rI-15fovYEY