Wood Owl auger bits? 18"

[Doug_D]

Anyone use their 18" auger bits before?  They sure are expensive, but I figured I better get something pretty decent for running wires in the cabin.  I've used my share of paddle bits and have been victim of their wrath on several occasions  >:(

Thanks Doug

[Jim_Rogers]

I went to a place that sells these bits and tested a short one.

You can read about this here: https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,36442.0.html

[Doug_D]

Thanks Jim.  I think I am going to pull the trigger and try a couple.

[jander3]

I've assembled quite a collection of auger bits, both T-handle driven and driven with a brace. When ever I stop at antique stores, I check out the tool section.  Generally, I can find a T-handle with bit in $10-$15 dollar range.  Auger bits for a brace generally run $1-$10.  Braces are normally about $5.   If the bits have good self feed thread and the cutting edge is good, I sharpen them up and they cut great. 

I often run into a bit that someone sharpened on the outside (sort of like beveling the smart side of the chisel).  These just don't work. 





These auger bits work very well for drilling holes. No trouble with up to 2" diameter in softwood and 1 1/2" diameter in hardwood.  I have a number of bits that let me drill holes that are 24" deep.    I though-bolted all my log joists and cutting the holes with bit and brace didn't take much longer than it would have taken with an electric drill and I didn't have to mess with batteries or power.

I did try and drill through the section of logs that I had insulated with wool.  The bit just wouldn't work in the wool (didn't work with the electric drill either).  So now, if I know I will be drilling through the insulated area, I don't install the wool so the bit will cut properly.

[moonhill]

jander, is that a jig for making pegs? 

Tim

[Rooster]

I test drove a 1.5" x 18" HolzMaster double cut bit with a cordless drill into a 20" diameter cube of dead elm......it walked itself straight in, and produced uniform chips.  I was very impressed. Wood Owl is just the production company for these bits, which have their own unique design.


http://www.timbertools.com/Products/HolzMaster_doublecut.html


Maybe we need to lobby them into  making a 2"x8" bit for us framers.  Eh?

Rooster

[witterbound]

We use one to drill our 1" peg holes.   It is a dandy bit. 

[HARLEYRIDER]

I have 3 wood owl bits. They cut the cleanest hole, and self feed into almost anything. In fact I just ordered a 13/16x18" today.

[BB]

Bought the 1" and 3/4" along with the protool drill stand from timberwolf. Great investment. No more blowout or misplace holes out the backside of beams.