What to Know Before Buying 17/64" Jobber Drill Bits
The Drill America KFD17/64P12 is a 12-pack of 17/64-inch high-speed steel jobber drill bits with a black and gold finish and split point. This size is commonly used for pilot holes in wood and metal, making bit quality and consistency critical for clean, accurate drilling.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Material and coating: High-speed steel (HSS) with a black and gold surface treatment offers good heat resistance and lubricity, but it's not a substitute for cobalt or carbide when drilling hardened steels or abrasive materials.
- Point geometry: A 135-degree split point reduces walking on curved or slippery surfaces and eliminates the need for a center punch in many applications, which is a key feature of this KFD series.
- Pack quantity and value: Buying a 12-pack of a single size ensures you have backups for a commonly used bit, but it only makes sense if 17/64" is a size you use frequently.
What Our Analysts Recommend
Check that the bits are clearly labeled with size and material, and that the split point is ground symmetrically. Look for consistent flute edges and a sharp, well-defined point; poorly ground bits will drill oversize holes or wander.
Jobber Drill Bits Market Context
Market Overview
The jobber drill bit market is crowded with budget imports and premium domestic brands, with prices varying widely for similar specifications. Drill America competes by offering US-made or imported bits with clear specifications, but quality can vary between series.
Common Issues
Common complaints in this category include bits that dull quickly, break under moderate pressure, or have inconsistent point angles that cause walking. Many low-cost bits are made from inferior HSS that loses temper at relatively low temperatures.
Quality Indicators
Quality bits feature precise split points, uniform flute spacing, and clearly marked sizes. Brands that specify the exact HSS grade (e.g., M2, M7) and manufacturing standards tend to be more reliable than those that don't.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade A Interpretation
An authenticity grade of A with an estimated 8% fake reviews indicates that the vast majority of the 812 reviews are genuine. The adjusted rating of 4.70 out of 5, while slightly lower than the raw 4.89, still reflects strong satisfaction among real users.
Trust Recommendation
You can trust the overall sentiment, but focus on reviews that describe specific drilling applications, materials, and bit longevity. The high adjusted rating suggests this product performs well for its intended use, but individual results may vary.
Tips for Reading Reviews
Look for reviewers who mention the materials they drilled (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel) and whether the bits held up over multiple holes. Ignore vague five-star reviews that lack detail, as they may be less informative.
Expert Perspective
The Drill America KFD17/64P12 is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable supply of 17/64" jobber bits for general-purpose drilling in wood, plastic, and mild steel. The split point design and HSS construction are appropriate for handheld drilling, and the 12-pack offers convenience for frequent users. However, it's not intended for hardened materials or high-production environments.
Purchase Considerations
Consider whether you need a single size in bulk or a set with multiple sizes. If you frequently drill stainless steel or harder metals, you may want cobalt bits instead. Also, check if the bits are made in the USA or imported, as that may affect quality.
Comparing Alternatives
Compare with other brands like Bosch, DeWalt, or Norseman for similar sizes, and consider sets if you need variety. Read reviews for specific performance data.
