Tool Review: 'Vortex' Brad Point Bits; 'valuable addition'

I have been using these bits about a year and a half now, and I find them to be a valuable addition to my collection of drill bits. I was introduced to them by Anthony Hinch, the President of Fisch Precision Tools Inc. at the American Woodworker Show two years ago. They were not available for sale at the show, but Anthony gave me a sample and said to take it home, try it and let him know the results. Well, it sat on my "slightly" cluttered workbench for several months until I got around to trying it, and when I did I was pleasantly surprised. My first use was drilling a 7/16" hole through Poplar for an axle hole for one of my toys. The first thing evident was how aggressive the bit was, so I figured a clean hole was not possible, but I was mistaken. I could feel the chips bouncing around in the hole, but when the bit was removed the hole was as clean as any of my carbide bits would have left it. The manufacturer claims backup boards are not necessary, but I prefer to use one anyway, although exit holes are extremely clean and without tearout. Vortex bits run much cooler than other bits and stay sharp for a long time.(I am still using my original bit, and I drill a lot of holes, sometimes several hundred in a day, mostly in hard woods.)They look difficult to resharpen, but the price is reasonable enough to replace them when they are dull and avoid the bother. When I finally got around to calling Mr. Hinch with my evaluation he was kind enough to send a full set (unsolicited) for our monthly raffle. These bits are highly recommended. They are available in the Constantine catalogue and from other sources as well.

- Bob Urso