Vix-Bit 3VIXBIT Self Centering Pre-Drill Bit for 5/64-Inch Hinges and #2, 3, and #4 Screws

The reason I bought this one in particluar is a replacement for the one that came in a set of 3 VIX bits. They worked OK except I broke off the tip of a ball end allen wrench in the set screw socket. My fault for using a ball end when I didn't need to, I new they were weaker. Anyway I can't remove the set screw. THe bit is tiny and eventually I'll have to clear a jam. or break the bit.This size is very useful for small box hardware using #2, #3 and #4 screws. Helps me get them precisely lined up in wood where thin bits tend to walk or bend a bit and not drill exactly where you want. VIX bits center perfectly using the hinge or hasp as a guide.I tried some cheap imports but the quality was lacking, some were broke to begin with and some jammed often and the general overal satisfaction was very low. You know, when a tool works perfectly you get a nice sense of satisfaction.

The material itself is solid, not cheap. But at the maximum plunge, it only exposes 1/2" of drill bit. I wanted closer to 3/4". You can adjust the height somewhat by starting the drill bit further inside the chamber, but this will allow you to get a shallower hole, not a deeper one. (You obviously can't adjust it the other way and have the tip of the drill bit higher than this tool because that would defeat the purpose). Also it wobbles a bit as it spins.I will mention that a previous reviewer said there's no way to replace the drill bit, but that isn't true. If you loosen the height adjustment screw you can totally remove the drill bit and replace it with another one of the same diameter.Also, I thought the shaft of the tool would remain stationery and only the drill bit would spin by using bearings or something. The entire tool spins which means that the end of it is putting friction against the hinge, causing the smaller hinges to want to move while you're drilling.

The tool worked VERY WELL. Includes Allen wrench made it SUPER EASY to set depth of hole. This is also a VERY GOOD value. Highly recommend!

If you ever mount hinges, drawer sliders, latches and stuff, then these are great. The screw hole is centered in the hole and the installed part looks so much more professional than those with amateurish crooked bunged-up screws.Also, there is a depth adjustment so you won't drill through the side of carcasses, drawer sides and such.Wood chips can keep the tool from retracting sometimes, and that is annoying, but there is no way to prevent it and you will get in the habit of pulling it out manually when you have to. The utility of the tool far outweighs this little problem.

I love these bits. I keep a second old drill with one of these in it at all time. Anytime I need a pilot hole, zip. Done

I like these but I haven't found an easy way to replace a dull or broken bit. It's a shame to have to buy a new one and not be able to fix it. Also, the bit doesn't do a good job of extracting the wood particles and the bit jams. It's not easy freeing the bit. These have been around for awhile now; it would be nice if the manufacturer would try to improve their product instead of resting on their laurels.

VIXBIT is still top of the line.

A solid and reliable bit.