What is the advantage of a #2 "insert" bit?

[Bluedodge]

I've always used these:

Meanwhile, in the Bargain area of GJ, posters are raving over the great pricing on these at fifty cents each:

What is the difference? Does the smaller shaft fit different drivers?

https://www.grainger.com/product/DE...&cm_mmc=PJX-_-GraingerBrand-_-43737-_-Generic

 

[ishiboo]

No? They're the same thing from a size perspective.

The bottom one is impact-rated, the thin area of the shaft allows the bit to "twist" more absorbing some of the impact before it "springs" back. It'll also be a bit different steel in most cases.

 

[orca8589]

New idea for impact driver bits - apparently they work better and last longer than regular bits.

You have to decide if they're worth the extra $$$.

~Chris

 

[rlitman]

No? They're the same thing from a size perspective.

The bottom one is impact-rated, the thin area of the shaft allows the bit to "twist" more absorbing some of the impact before it "springs" back. It'll also be a bit different steel in most cases.

+1 They work like torque limiting impact extensions in that way.
It just makes it less likely that an impact will snap the tip off. Though these impact rated bits are also usually forged and of better quality than their cheaper plain cousins.

 

[Rookie2]

If you look at the Grainger site The Yellow band only indicates S2 modified steel (that is as good as a wink to a blind horse) The blue band indicates High Grade Steel or Power bits.

 

[Bluedodge]

Thank you for the info guys!

 

[Granite80]

Interesting. These look almost identical to the "harpoon" bits that I have heard were specd by Boeing for use in their factories. Is it the same concept - better for impact driving?

 

[hautpot]

also can access recessed phillips

 

[jhelrey]

I like the ones Milwaukee makes...

https://www.google.com/search?q=mil...sch&q=milwaukee+bits+#2&imgrc=eHjRlBc5ayPU9M:

Makes installing door hardware a breeze as it doesn't scratch, etc

 

[BMack37]

I like the ones Milwaukee makes...

https://www.google.com/search?q=mil...sch&q=milwaukee+bits+#2&imgrc=eHjRlBc5ayPU9M:

Makes installing door hardware a breeze as it doesn't scratch, etc

I HATE those bits. I'm a big Milwaukee fan but man, those bits just ****. I know you like them but I'm telling you to try another brand's bits because pretty much every brand that isn't from HF is better in multiple if not every regard. In fact, I used a HF bit that lasted longer than the Milwaukee shockwave. You can get better for the money than those bits(though I cannot comment on the bit line they just released).

Right now I'm using Bosch ribbed for her pleasure bits. I need to try the Dewalts because I've heard a lot of good about them. I have an Irwin bit that is pretty decent, it seems to be well made but the Bosch is holding on longer than expected so I haven't put it through the paces.

 

[padroo]

If I am buying screws Especially long ones I prefer the square drive over the phillips. I find a used square drive bit is better than a new phillips. The torn heads are even better. Jmo

 

[pstemari]

If I am buying screws Especially long ones I prefer the square drive over the phillips. ...

Yes, Phillips is a really bad design. It was originally intended to limit the applied torque and cam out, but it's entirely too effective.

For wood screws, the GRK with Torx heads are way, way better. Steel is much better, thread and point design is better, and the Torx head doesn't cam out or strip.

For machine and cap screws, I prefer socket heads.

 

[Robbie UK]

I like the ones Milwaukee makes...

https://www.google.com/search?q=mil...sch&q=milwaukee+bits+#2&imgrc=eHjRlBc5ayPU9M:

Makes installing door hardware a breeze as it doesn't scratch, etc

You can have mine as they are the worst fitting impact bits I have come across, particularly the PZ2. I have yet to find anything they fit well.

I'm sticking with DeWalt or Wera impact bits from now on.