Selecting the right drill bit is crucial to maximizing efficiency and performance while horizontal directional drilling (HDD). Vermeer offers a wide range of drill bits designed to tackle various ground conditions — from soft soils to abrasive rock formations. Whether you’re dealing with loose dirt, cobble or extreme conditions, Vermeer has a drill bit to tackle the job ahead.
Cody Mecham, Vermeer product manager for Cutting Edge (and unofficial drill bit matchmaker), recently answered some common questions from drillers in the field. Here’s what he had to say about the new Bit BossTM retention system and how to determine which bits are best for your toughest ground conditions.
Meet the Bit Boss retention system
HDD drill bit problem: Confusion over new housing hardware
If you’ve noticed extra holes and hardware on a replacement housing, no need to worry. Mecham explained that this is part of the new Bit Boss retention system — a reverse-compatible upgrade designed to improve bit retention in extreme conditions.
“The Bit Boss features three shoulder screws that go through the bit and seat against the housing,” Mecham said. “The original six bolts still provide clamp load, while the shoulder screws add shear protection.”
Good news: Whether you’re using AceTM bits, GladiatorTM bits, or Ultra dirt bit adapters, the Bit Boss system is compatible with legacy Vermeer bolt patterns. And if you’re not using a Bit Boss housing yet? No problem — the new bits still fit.
Wearing out fast and losing your path? Try the Gladiator Saber
HDD drill bit problem: Fast wear and poor steering in abrasive soil
If you’re experiencing rapid bit wear and trouble maintaining your bore path, Mecham recommends the Gladiator Saber.
“Its aggressive triangular shape penetrates well and helps limit oversteering,” Mecham said. “Plus, the Saber now includes Bit Boss features for better retention.”
If your housing supports Bit Boss, you’ll get even more peace of mind downhole.
Tough bore, tight budget? Consider the Ace Pro Extreme
HDD drill bit problem: Struggling in challenging conditions, but unable to upgrade the whole system
Have you been eyeing the Ultra X3 Lance bit, but need a more budget-friendly option? Mecham suggested the Ace Pro Extreme.
“This bit will do the job — and you won’t have to change your entire drilling system,” he said. “Even if your housing doesn’t have Bit Boss features, the bit will still attach and perform.”
The Ace Pro Extreme is built for aggressive ground and includes Bit Boss features to reduce bit shear underground.
Where can you buy drill bits?
Whether you’re drilling through abrasive soil, challenging cobble or just trying to make sense of new tooling options, a Cutting Edge specialist at your Vermeer dealership is ready to help. “The phone lines are always open,” Mecham said. “We’re here to match you with the right bit for your ground conditions.”
If you know which bits will work best for your next jobsite, you can even order tooling right to your doorstep from borestore.com. While shopping, be sure to try out the Vermeer Rig Fitter tool to help ensure you have the right equipment for your HDD jobsite. For more information on HDD tooling, be sure to get in touch with your local Vermeer dealer.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region. Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications. Vermeer, the Vermeer logo, Bit Boss, Ace, Gladiator, and Equipped to Do More are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries.
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