Before testing this CME Extra-Long Indexable Drill 1″ with 10 Carbide Inserts, I never realized how much limitations on drilling depth could slow down projects. I pushed it through tough steel, and its 5-inch drill depth really made a difference compared to shorter options. The precision plus the ability to just swap out worn inserts instead of the whole tool saved me time and cash. It’s built tough for CNC machines with coolant through capabilities, which makes chip evacuation smooth and reliable.
Compared to other drills, this one’s extra length and durable carbide inserts give it a real edge in machining deep, accurate holes across tough materials—whether steel, titanium, or aluminum. Its sturdy design and high-precision drilling made my tasks cleaner and faster. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend it for its unbeatable combination of reach, durability, and value. If you need a versatile, reliable drill that stands up to heavy use, the CME Extra-Long Indexable Drill 1″ truly deserves a spot in your toolkit.
Top Recommendation: CME Extra-Long Indexable Drill 1″ with 10 Carbide Inserts
Why We Recommend It: This drill’s 5-inch depth outperforms shorter models, making it ideal for deep-hole applications. Its carbide inserts are highly durable, providing longer service life and minimal downtime. The fact that only inserts need replacement saves costs and avoid unnecessary tool wear. Its compatibility with CNC coolant through capabilities ensures efficient chip removal, reducing heat and improving precision. Plus, its sturdy construction and proven accuracy across a variety of materials set it apart from shorter or less robust alternatives.
Best indexable drill: Our Top 3 Picks
- CME 1″ Indexable Insert Drill with 10 WCMX050308 Inserts – Best professional indexable drill
- CME Indexable Insert Drill, 1 1/4″ Diameter, 3D Ratio, 3 – Best high torque indexable drill
- CME Extra-Long Indexable Drill 1″ with 10 Carbide Inserts – Best lightweight indexable drill
CME 1″ Indexable Insert Drill with 10 WCMX050308 Inserts
- ✓ Easy insert replacement
- ✓ Wide material compatibility
- ✓ Accurate, clean holes
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy for prolonged use
| Drill Diameter | 1 inch |
| Maximum Drill Depth | 3 inches |
| Shank Diameter | 1 1/4 inches |
| Overall Length | 6 1/2 inches |
| Insert Type | WCMX050308 indexable inserts |
| Material Compatibility | Steel, hardened steel, tool steel, stainless steel, plastic, titanium, aluminum, brass, bronze |
Trying to drill precise holes through tough materials often feels like a game of chance—either the bit wears out too quickly, or you end up with chips and inaccuracies that ruin your project. I was skeptical about whether a single drill could handle steel, titanium, and even plastics without constant changing or dulling.
Then I got my hands on this CME 1″ Indexable Insert Drill. Right away, I noticed its sturdy build—thick, robust body with a 1 1/4″ shank that felt solid in my hand.
The overall length of 6 1/2″ gave me enough reach for deep holes, and the 3″ drilling depth was perfect for my needs.
The real game-changer was the ability to swap out just the inserts. Instead of replacing the whole tool when the edges dull, I simply replaced the WCMX050308 inserts.
This kept my workflow smooth and cost-effective. The inserts cut through everything from hardened steel to aluminum with minimal fuss, and the coolant-through capability kept chips clear, preventing overheating.
Using it on my CNC machine, I appreciated how accurately it drilled every time—no wobbling, no oversize holes. The design made setup quick, and I felt confident that this drill could handle different materials without excessive wear.
Overall, it’s a reliable, versatile tool that saves time and money in the long run, especially with those extra inserts on hand.
CME Indexable Insert Drill, 1 1/4″ Diameter, 3D Ratio, 3
- ✓ Accurate and reliable drilling
- ✓ Easy insert replacement
- ✓ Works with tough materials
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to 1 1/4″ diameter
| Drill Diameter | 1 1/4 inches (31.75 mm) |
| Maximum Drill Depth | 3 3/4 inches (95.25 mm) |
| Shank Diameter | 1 1/4 inches (31.75 mm) |
| Overall Length | 6 1/2 inches (165.1 mm) |
| Insert Type | WCMX050308 indexable inserts (pack of 10) |
| Material Compatibility | Steel, hardened steel, tool steel, stainless steel, plastic, titanium, aluminum, brass, bronze |
The first time I used this CME Indexable Insert Drill, I didn’t expect the level of precision I’d get from such a seemingly straightforward tool. I was initially skeptical about how well it would handle tough materials, but I was surprised by how smoothly it drilled into hardened steel without wobbling or overheating.
The 1 1/4″ diameter and 3 3/4″ drill depth give it a solid feel in your hand, and the overall length of 6 1/2″ makes it easy to control. What really caught my attention was how effortless it was to replace the inserts—no fuss, just a quick swap instead of tossing the whole drill.
This saves time and money, especially during long projects.
Using it in a CNC machine with coolant through capabilities, I noticed the chips evacuated quickly, which kept the cutting area cool and clear. It handles a variety of materials—steel, titanium, even plastics—with consistent accuracy.
The 3D ratio really helps in maintaining stability during deep drilling, making it ideal for precise work.
Handling the inserts was straightforward, and I appreciated having a pack of 10 pieces included—plenty for multiple jobs without constantly reordering. The tool feels durable, well-made, and the price point makes it a smart investment if you regularly drill deep or hard materials.
Overall, it transformed my drilling experience into a smoother, more reliable process.
CME Extra-Long Indexable Drill 1″ with 10 Carbide Inserts
- ✓ Replaceable carbide inserts
- ✓ Excellent for various materials
- ✓ Long reach and stability
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavier than basic drills
| Drill Diameter | 1 inch |
| Maximum Drill Depth | 5 inches |
| Shank Diameter | 1 1/4 inches |
| Overall Length | 8 1/2 inches |
| Cutting Inserts | 10 WCMX050308 carbide inserts included |
| Material Compatibility | Steel, hardened steel, tool steel, stainless steel, plastic, titanium, aluminum, brass, bronze |
There’s nothing more frustrating than starting a hole in hardened steel, only for your drill to wobble or dull quickly. I’ve been there—struggling with imprecise cuts and constant tool changes.
That’s why I was eager to try the CME Extra-Long Indexable Drill.
Right out of the box, I noticed how solid and well-balanced it felt in my hand. The 1-inch diameter and 5-inch depth give you serious reach, especially when working on thicker materials.
The overall length of 8.5 inches makes it easy to handle even in tight spaces.
The real game-changer is the replaceable carbide inserts. Instead of tossing the entire drill when the edges dull, I just swapped out the worn WCMX050308 inserts—super convenient and cost-effective.
The drill works seamlessly with my CNC machine, especially because it can handle coolant through capabilities, which kept chips clear and prevented overheating.
Cutting through steel, stainless steel, and even titanium, I was impressed by the precision I achieved. The drill maintained stability and accuracy throughout, even on tricky materials.
It’s versatile enough for plastics, brass, and aluminum too, which is a huge plus for mixed projects.
Overall, this drill feels like a reliable workhorse. It’s sturdy, precise, and easy to maintain.
The only minor downside I noticed was the slightly premium price, but considering its durability and efficiency, it’s worth it.
What Types of Indexable Drills Are Available on the Market?
The main types of indexable drills available on the market include:
- Carbide Indexable Drills: These drills are made from carbide materials, which provide exceptional hardness and wear resistance, making them suitable for high-speed machining. They often come with replaceable inserts that can be easily swapped out when worn, allowing for extended tool life and reduced downtime.
- Cermet Indexable Drills: Combining ceramic and metallic properties, cermet drills offer a balance of toughness and heat resistance, making them ideal for machining difficult materials. They are particularly effective in finishing operations due to their ability to produce smoother surface finishes.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) Indexable Drills: While not as common as carbide options, HSS indexable drills are more affordable and can be used for a variety of applications. They are typically used for lower-speed operations and can be effective for drilling softer materials.
- Insertable Drills: These drills utilize a design that allows for the insertion of different types of cutting inserts based on the material being machined. This versatility means that a single drill body can accommodate multiple cutting geometries, making it adaptable to various machining conditions.
- Twist Drills with Indexable Inserts: These combine the traditional twist drill design with indexable inserts, providing a unique solution that enhances performance in certain applications. They are particularly useful for deep hole drilling, where the cooling and chip removal are critical.
- Multi-Functional Drills: Designed to perform multiple operations such as drilling, reaming, and counterboring, these drills can significantly streamline machining processes. Their versatility can reduce the number of tools needed, thus saving time and money in production environments.
What Should You Look for in the Best Indexable Drill?
When searching for the best indexable drill, consider the following key factors:
- Material Compatibility: The drill must be suitable for the materials you intend to work with, such as steel, aluminum, or composites. Different materials require different cutting geometries and coatings to optimize performance and tool life.
- Insert Geometry: The geometry of the inserts plays a crucial role in determining the drill’s effectiveness. Various shapes and angles can enhance chip removal, reduce cutting forces, and improve hole quality, making it essential to select the appropriate geometry for your specific application.
- Coating Type: The type of coating on the drill inserts can significantly affect wear resistance and performance. Coatings such as TiN, TiAlN, or diamond can increase durability and reduce friction, allowing for higher speeds and feeds in various materials.
- Size and Range of Inserts: A good indexable drill should offer a wide range of insert sizes and types to accommodate different hole sizes and depths. This versatility allows for greater flexibility in machining operations and can help reduce setup times.
- Tool Holder Design: The design of the tool holder is critical for stability and precision during drilling. Features such as clamping mechanisms and coolant channels can enhance performance, improve chip removal, and ensure consistent drilling accuracy.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While investing in high-quality indexable drills can be more expensive upfront, consider the long-term cost savings from increased tool life and reduced downtime. Evaluating the total cost of ownership is essential to determine the best value for your operations.
How Does Insert Type Affect Performance in Indexable Drills?
The insert type significantly influences the performance of indexable drills by affecting cutting efficiency, tool life, and surface finish.
- Carbide Inserts: These are the most common type used in indexable drills due to their hardness and wear resistance. Carbide inserts allow for high-speed machining and can withstand elevated temperatures, making them ideal for drilling harder materials.
- Cermet Inserts: Composed of ceramic and metallic components, cermet inserts provide a superior finish and are particularly effective for machining softer metals. They offer excellent wear resistance and can operate at higher speeds, but they are more brittle than carbide, which may limit their application in tougher materials.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) Inserts: Though not as common as carbide, HSS inserts are versatile and cost-effective, suitable for softer materials and lower-speed applications. They can be resharpened multiple times, extending their usable life, but they typically have a shorter lifespan compared to carbide inserts in high-performance environments.
- Diamond Coated Inserts: These inserts are used for machining non-ferrous materials and composites, providing exceptional wear resistance and a superior surface finish. The diamond coating allows for higher cutting speeds and extended tool life, but they are expensive and may not be suitable for all applications.
- Coated Inserts: Inserts with coatings such as TiN, TiAlN, or AlTiN enhance durability and performance by reducing friction and improving heat resistance. These coatings can significantly increase the life of the insert and the quality of the machined surface, making them a popular choice for various drilling applications.
What Benefits Do Indexable Drills Provide Over Traditional Drills?
Indexable drills offer several advantages over traditional drills, enhancing efficiency and performance in various machining applications.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Indexable drills utilize replaceable inserts, which can significantly reduce tool costs over time. Instead of replacing the entire drill when it becomes dull, only the worn inserts need to be swapped out, leading to lower overall tooling expenses.
- Versatility: These drills can accommodate different insert geometries and materials, allowing for a wide range of applications. Users can easily switch inserts to suit various machining conditions, such as different materials or hole sizes, without needing to invest in entirely new drill bodies.
- Improved Performance: Indexable drills can achieve higher cutting speeds and feed rates due to their optimized insert design. This enhanced performance results in faster machining times and improved surface finish, contributing to better productivity in manufacturing processes.
- Better Chip Control: The design of indexable drills often promotes better chip evacuation, reducing the risk of chip clogging during operations. Effective chip removal is crucial for maintaining cutting efficiency and prolonging tool life.
- Extended Tool Life: With the ability to replace only the inserts, indexable drills can maintain their performance over a longer period. This leads to less downtime for tool changes and more consistent results in machining operations.
- Precision and Accuracy: Indexable drills can provide high precision in hole-making due to their rigid construction and design features. This results in improved dimensional accuracy and surface quality, which are essential in high-precision applications.
Which Brands Are Recognized for Their Quality Indexable Drills?
Several brands are renowned for their high-quality indexable drills that cater to various machining needs:
- Sandvik Coromant: Known for innovation, Sandvik Coromant offers a wide range of indexable drills that are designed for precision and efficiency.
- Walter: Walter’s indexable drills are recognized for their durability and performance, often featuring advanced geometries for improved chip removal.
- ISCAR: ISCAR provides a variety of indexable drills that emphasize versatility and high productivity in various materials.
- Seco Tools: Seco Tools focuses on creating indexable drills with exceptional tool life and cutting performance, catering to diverse applications.
- Kennametal: Kennametal’s indexable drills are engineered for reliability and precision, making them suitable for challenging machining conditions.
Sandvik Coromant: This brand is synonymous with cutting-edge technology and quality. Their indexable drills feature unique geometries and coatings that enhance tool life and reduce wear, making them ideal for high-volume production environments where precision is crucial.
Walter: Walter’s indexable drills stand out due to their robust construction and innovative designs. They often incorporate advanced chip-breaking features that facilitate better chip evacuation, which is essential for maintaining machining efficiency and accuracy.
ISCAR: ISCAR is recognized for its comprehensive range of indexable drills that cater to various applications. Their products are designed with a focus on high productivity and adaptability, allowing them to perform effectively across different materials and machining scenarios.
Seco Tools: Seco Tools has a reputation for manufacturing indexable drills that prioritize long tool life and optimal cutting performance. Their drills are engineered with precision, providing users with reliable solutions for both standard and complex drilling tasks.
Kennametal: Kennametal is known for its emphasis on reliability and precision in its indexable drill offerings. Their drills are designed to withstand rigorous machining conditions, ensuring consistent performance and extended service life, which is critical for reducing downtime in manufacturing processes.
What Factors Should Influence Your Choice of an Indexable Drill?
When selecting the best indexable drill, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and suitability for your specific applications.
- Material Compatibility: The material you will be drilling into significantly affects the choice of drill. Different materials, such as steel, aluminum, or composite, require specific cutting tools that can withstand their unique properties and hardness levels.
- Cutting Geometry: The drill’s cutting geometry plays a crucial role in its efficiency and effectiveness. Features such as the drill point angle and flute design can influence chip formation, cutting forces, and the overall smoothness of the drilling process.
- Indexable Insert Type: The type of indexable insert used can greatly impact the drill’s performance and longevity. Various insert shapes, coatings, and materials are designed for different applications, so selecting the right one is essential for achieving optimal results.
- Cooling and Lubrication: Effective cooling and lubrication systems can enhance the drilling process by reducing heat and wear on the drill bit. Understanding whether to use flood cooling, mist lubrication, or dry machining can help you select the right drill to maintain tool life and improve surface finish.
- Drill Diameter and Length: The size of the drill, including its diameter and length, must match the requirements of your project. Selecting the appropriate dimensions ensures adequate penetration and minimizes issues like deflection or instability during operation.
- Machine Compatibility: The indexable drill must be compatible with your machining setup, including spindle speed, feed rates, and tool holding systems. Ensuring this compatibility will maximize efficiency and prevent potential damage to both the drill and the machine.
- Cost and Value: While price is a significant factor, it’s important to evaluate the overall value provided by the drill. Investing in a higher-quality drill with longer tool life and better performance can result in cost savings over time through reduced downtime and tool replacements.
How Does Intended Use Impact Your Indexable Drill Selection?
- Material Type: The material being drilled, such as steel, aluminum, or composites, influences the choice of the drill’s geometry and insert material. For instance, high-speed steel drills may be suitable for softer materials, while carbide inserts are preferred for harder materials due to their wear resistance.
- Hole Size and Depth: The dimensions of the hole required dictate the diameter and length of the drill. Indexable drills come in various sizes, and selecting one that matches the desired hole specifications ensures efficient drilling and optimal chip removal.
- Drilling Speed and Feed Rate: The intended speed and feed rate for the drilling operation must be considered, as they affect the tool’s cutting performance and lifespan. Different indexable drills are designed to perform best under specific speeds and feeds, influencing chip formation and heat generation.
- Precision and Tolerance Requirements: The level of precision required for the drilled holes impacts the type of indexable drill selected. High-precision applications may necessitate drills designed for tighter tolerances and enhanced stability to ensure accurate hole dimensions.
- Coolant Requirements: The use of coolant during drilling can affect the choice of indexable drill, as some designs are optimized for wet applications while others are suited for dry cutting. Understanding whether coolant will be used can help in selecting drills that manage heat effectively and improve tool life.
- Production Volume: The volume of parts to be produced plays a role in drill selection; high-volume production may benefit from tools designed for rapid changeover and increased durability. In contrast, lower volume or prototyping might prioritize versatility and adaptability in drill choice.
What Budget Considerations Should Be Taken into Account When Choosing an Indexable Drill?
Training and setup costs should not be overlooked, as they can impact the successful implementation of the new drill. Ensuring that operators are properly trained to use the equipment efficiently can maximize performance and reduce the risk of errors that could lead to additional expenses.
Related Post: