Norseman Drill Bits Review

A Comprehensive Look at Quality, Performance, and Value

When it comes to drilling metal, wood, or tough composites, the right bit can make all the difference. Among the myriad choices on the market, Norseman drill bits have steadily garnered a reputation for their exceptional quality, durability, and precision. This in-depth review explores what sets Norseman apart from the competition, examining product features, performance in various materials, and overall value.

Norseman SPM-15 Split Point Drill Bit Set

Premium quality drill bits for all your drilling needs in the Norseman SPM-15 Split Point Drill Bit Set

Product information

A$148.27

Product Review Score

4.96 out of 5 stars

36 reviews

Description

The Norseman SPM-15 Split Point Drill Bit Set is the ultimate drilling companion for any Norseman enthusiast. With its durable construction, precision split point design, and versatile sizes, it guarantees precise and effortless drilling through various materials, making it a must-have for both professionals and DIYers in the All Things Norseman niche.

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Brand Background

Norseman (a division of Viking Drill & Tool) is a U.S.-based manufacturer with a long-standing history of producing high-quality cutting tools. With roots stretching back decades, the company’s focus has always been on manufacturing drill bits that meet stringent engineering standards. Their product line covers a wide range of needs—from general-purpose sets for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts to specialized bits for professional machinists and contractors.

Key Features of Norseman Drill Bits

1. Premium-Grade Materials:
Norseman uses high-speed steel (HSS) and often enhances their bits with cobalt or titanium nitride coatings. These materials increase hardness, heat resistance, and overall tool life. Many Norseman bits are made from M42 high-speed steel, a cobalt alloy known for maintaining sharpness under extreme drilling conditions.

2. Advanced Geometry and Design:
A standout aspect of Norseman’s drill bits is their unique point geometry. They frequently employ the “SPT” (Split Point Technology), a 135° split point design that reduces thrust and prevents the bit from walking on the material surface. This design feature ensures smoother starts, less need for center punching, and more accurate hole placement.

3. Precision Manufacturing:
Each Norseman bit undergoes stringent quality control measures. The company’s dedication to precision manufacturing results in consistently round shanks, tight tolerances, and cutting edges honed to exacting standards. This precision not only ensures cleaner holes but also prolongs the overall life of the bit.

Performance Across Various Materials

1. Metal (Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron):
Norseman drill bits truly shine in metalworking applications. Their cobalt-enhanced HSS composition allows them to bore through tough stainless steel plates, structural steel beams, and cast iron engine components with minimal wear. The bits maintain their sharpness and are far less prone to chipping or dulling compared to standard HSS bits.

2. Wood and Soft Materials:
While certainly overbuilt for softer materials like pine, cedar, or plywood, Norseman bits still excel here. The split point design reduces splintering and ensures clean, precise holes. Given their premium build, these bits are likely to last through countless woodworking projects, making them ideal for professionals who frequently switch between metal and wood.

3. Hardened Plastics and Composites:
Composites and dense plastics can present unique challenges due to melting, binding, or chipping. Norseman’s high-speed steel structure and polished flutes help reduce friction, heat buildup, and clogging. Users often report smoother drilling, reduced material blowout, and consistent hole diameters across a variety of synthetic materials.

Durability and Longevity

One of the most frequently lauded attributes of Norseman drill bits is their long-term performance. Thanks to their material quality and expertly ground geometry, these bits resist dulling and corrosion exceptionally well. As a result, users often find themselves sharpening less frequently, saving both time and money in the long run. Given their extended lifespan, the initial cost premium over bargain-brand bits often proves justified.

Comparing Norseman to Other Brands

1. Economy Bits (Generic, Budget Brands):
While cheaper sets might seem attractive to the casual user, they often dull quickly, wander on the material surface, and fail prematurely. By contrast, Norseman bits maintain sharpness and accuracy for far longer, translating into better performance and fewer headaches.

2. Mid-Range Options:
Brands like Bosch, Irwin, and Milwaukee offer solid mid-range solutions. However, the consensus among professionals tends to favor Norseman for the toughest jobs, particularly in metalwork. The difference often comes down to the finer details in geometry, coating integrity, and overall lifespan.

3. Specialty High-End Bits:
On the high end, there are niche brands and custom manufacturers producing top-tier drill bits. Norseman’s strength lies in striking a balance: they offer near premium-grade quality without the exorbitant price tag that some boutique brands command. The result is a product that appeals to professionals and serious DIYers alike.

Pricing and Value Proposition

Norseman drill bits generally cost more than entry-level brands, but their longevity and superior performance deliver long-term savings. Investing in a Norseman set can reduce downtime, improve project efficiency, and ensure cleaner, more accurate results. For contractors and machinists who rely on precision tools daily, the cost-to-value ratio is extremely favorable. Even dedicated hobbyists who demand quality and consistency find that Norseman offers a higher return on investment over time.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional durability and long life
• High-speed steel and cobalt alloys handle tough materials with ease
• Split point design reduces wandering and improves accuracy
• Excellent value over the lifespan of the bits

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to budget sets
• Possibly overbuilt for casual hobbyists who only drill occasionally
• May be harder to find in local stores (often available online or through specialty tool suppliers)

Final Verdict

Norseman drill bits stand out as a top-tier choice for professionals and demanding DIYers. Their superior materials, precision craftsmanship, and advanced point geometry yield long-lasting, consistent, and highly accurate results—particularly when drilling hard metals and alloys. While the initial investment may be steeper than mass-market alternatives, the combination of extended lifespan and enhanced performance makes Norseman a clear winner in the long run.

If you’re looking to upgrade your drill bit collection and want tools that won’t quit on you after a handful of uses, Norseman should be at the top of your list.