Spyder STINGER Power Bits Review
Spyder STINGER Power Bits Review
Spyder STINGER Power Bits
Manufacturer: Spyder
Model number: 15001
Price: $14.98
STINGER Power Bit Features
- Non-Clogging Automatic Feeding Tip
- Designed for Drilling Soft and Hardwoods as Well as Laminated Materials and Particleboard
- Impact-rated with 1/4″ shafts
- Intended for Clean/Nail-Free Materials
- Leaves very Clean Entry and Exit Holes
Standout Features of the Spyder STINGER Bits
Automatic Feeding Tip
Unlike a treaded tip auger bit, the STINGER Power bits feature an automatic feeding tip that is extremely controllable and precise. The Power bits don’t walk on materials and are easy to control. The cutter head also requires minimal pressure from the user and significantly less torque. Using these bits in either high or low mode, depending on the material, they powered through with minimal force on my part. The auto-feed tip with chip cutter feels similar to a Forstner bit with 6″ drilling capability.
Less Torque and Longer Life
Overall the STINGER bits surprised me at how fast they could blow through wood materials. The cutter design is refined for woodworking or finish projects, but the speed and longevity of the bits make them a great option for rough work as well. Because the bits are so efficient, they experience less wear over a shorter period of time. This results in users getting extended service life from the bits. Spyder’s design also allows tools to be used in slower settings with less torque. This means an increase in productivity and less downtime and fatigue for users.
The bits are impact rated and can be then be used with an impact driver. But personally, I don’t care to use that configuration. The STINGER bits felt at home in a traditional drill/driver to me.
Price and Availability
Spyder STINGER Power Bit Vs. Bosch Spade Bit. 1″ holes drilled through a piece of Southern Yellow Pine in the highest speed settings on 1/2″ drill. Spyder smoked the spade bit.
Spyder first announced the STINGER Power Bits in November of this year. Currently, they are available at Lowe’s and Menard’s stores in a four-pack. The kit includes 1/2″, 5/8″, 3/4″, and 1″ bits. As of today, that kit is available at Lowe’s for $14.88. For me, that is a tremendous value, factoring in the power, speed, and clean cutting capabilities of the STINGER bits vs. traditional spade bits.
Spyder plans to offer individual bits, longer lengths, and a variety of sizes soon. Follow the Buy It Now link below to purchase the 4 pack of bits from Lowe’s.
Overall Impressions of the Spyder STINGER Power Bits
The Spyder STINGER POwer Bits are right at home in one of my Milwaukee PACKOUT boxes. They fit perfectly in the longer internal box.
Spyder claims that the STINGER series is capable of a service life 10x that of a traditional spade bit as well as speeds up to 20x faster. Well, I have zero way of actually quantifying that. But what I do know is that I will likely not buy a spade bit again for a while. The STINGER Power Bits have impressed me with their ease of use and speed of drilling. In clean/nail-free wood, I think that they are an excellent option in a variety of applications. My only complaint would be the baby blue coating on the bits, The coating flaked off immediately upon opening. Not a huge concern, but one worth mentioning. Once Spyder is able to expand the line fully, I see this being a go-to option for woodworkers and the tradespersons alike.
About the author
Wes Bartosik
Wes Bartosik is a Connecticut native with strong family ties to the construction world. Wes’ father and grandfather both were builders and developers and taught Wes the values of doing things right from an early age and getting hands on experience with every facet of the construction industry. Wes apprenticed with a carpenter throughout high school and would later attend Central Connecticut State University earning a bachelor’s degree in construction management all while working for a large excavation contractor throughout. Wes would go on to work for a local heavy-highway construction company and gain further experience with all the skilled trades associated with large civil engineering and utility projects. Though working as a manager now, Wes’ true passion is working in the field alongside the tradesman and laborers on site. Wes has been involved in community based service projects throughout his life as well as emergency services. In his spare time he takes on serious DIY projects for himself, friends and family. He is a firm believer that with a quality tool in your hands and some grit, you can accomplish anything.
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