Drilling and tapping has historically been a two step process. With the Champion Cutting Tool Corp DT22HEX combination drill and tap, the process is simplified. The user can chuck the DT22HEX in a cordless drill, then drill and tap the hole with a single pass. Within seconds of starting, the fasteners can be threaded in.

The DT22HEX uses high molybdenum, high speed steel which allows the bit to drill through the substrate quickly. Once the tip of the drill bit passes through, then the tap portion of the bit cuts the threads. This is all done in the same pass, under the power of the cordless drill.  A hex shank makes it easy to chuck in the drill as well.

Champion Cutting Tool Corp has been dedicated to serving professionals with industrial grade products and services since 1897.  During World War II, Champion supplied the U.S. military with twist drills and countersinks.  Following the war, the product range was expanded to include a broader range of drills, end mills, taps, dies, annular cutters, magnetic drill presses and masonry tools, all engineered for maximum performance. Providing tools that increase productivity and deliver exceptional results is what drives the team.  Champion Cutting Tool Corp is recognized for their Champion, Brute Platinum, ProLine and RotoBrute brands.

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Champion Cutting Tool Corp DT22HEX Combination Drill and Tap

When using the DT22HEX bits no center drilling or center-punching is required. A tapered neck design reduces drill and tap breakage as well as the functional black and gold surface treatment holds lubricant for smoother drilling and tapping. With a 135° split point on the bit, the hole and thread can be cut at high speeds.

The DT22HEX can be purchased individually or you can purchase as a set. Available in standard, metric and machine screw tap sizes. An impact drill or quick change driver can be used with the 1/4” and 5/16” bit hex shank; however, the larger size bits have larger hex shanks that won’t fit the typical 1/4″ impact. Superior strength and durability is enhanced by the high molybdenum, high speed steel.

Using the DT22HEX Bits

We received the DT22HEX-SET-NC5 set that included five (5) bits in national course threads. The sizes in our kit include ¼”, 5/16”, 3/8”, 7/16” and ½”. In addition to the bit set, Brute Lube lubricant was supplied in both liquid and wax.

There are recommended instructions for using the DT22HEX. Start by drilling at medium speed and applying steady pressure. This will create moderate size chips. Use of cutting fluid or wax is recommended. Once the hole is complete, reduce the speed and pressure. The tap will feed into the hole and create a new thread. While the tap is still partially engaged in the material, reverse the rotation and gently withdraw the DT22HEX from the hole.

We started with the 1/4” bit on some 1-1/2” angle. With a quick dip of the bit in the Brute Lube, we started drilling. The drill portion of the DT22HEX made it through the angle within a few seconds, and the tap portion engaged immediately. With a flip of the switch into reverse, and the drill backed the DT22HEX out of the newly threaded hole.

Continuing with the same process, we tried all the bits from ¼” to ½”. All the bits worked as proclaimed, and the holes were tested by threading in fasteners for each size. With the larger two sizes, 7/16” and ½”, it works much faster with a 1/8” or ¼” pilot hole, but not required. In addition to the steel-angle tested, the ¼” bit drilled and threaded through ¼” thick I-beam steel with no issue.

Torture Testing

While not recommended, I was curious how fast that multiple holes could be drilled and threaded. With the steel-angle in the vice, I prepared the stopwatch and chucked the ¼” bit in the drill. In just a short 42.96 seconds, I was able to drill and tap five (5) holes. This included stopping every 2 holes to dip the bit in the Brute Lube. I was confident the DT22HEX would succeed, but I was very surprised and impressed with the time it completed the task.

The Bottom Line

Who doesn’t love saving time? Furthermore, who doesn’t love using power tools? The ability to chuck a single bit in a cordless drill to drill and tap makes total sense. Whether you are hanging commercial doors on metal door frames, mounting conduit and outlets on steel framed buildings, or tapping mounting brackets on a rollcage, the Champion Cutting Tool Corp DT22HEX combination drill and tap can be a great help.

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Being able to accomplish tasks quicker and with less steps is the essence to improving efficiency in any operation. If you are in need of taps, or your job entails cutting threads into new metal, then I would recommend the Champion DT22HEX. At roughly $17 each or $80 for a 5-piece kit, this will pay for itself quickly in saved labor.

For more information on the DT22HEX, please click here.