The Vermeer Ultra X3™ drilling system just got more versatile. Vermeer has introduced two new specialized HDD bits designed to handle the toughest ground conditions while maintaining the quick-change efficiency that makes the Ultra X3 system so valuable to drilling crews.
The new Vermeer 2Thirty™ and Triple Threat bits expand your Ultra X3 tooling options for challenging formations, giving you more capability without requiring additional equipment investments. Whether you’re facing hard rock formations or need precise steering control in tough ground, these new HDD bits help you complete more projects with the Ultra X3 system you already own.
Why these new rock drilling bits matter
The 2Thirty bit solves a specific problem: when you hit brutal rock formations that destroy standard bits but don’t quite justify bringing in dedicated rock drilling equipment. It’s engineered for formations up to 10,000 psi (68.9 MPa) where you need maximum durability over steering precision.
The Triple Threat bit addresses a different challenge: maintaining precise steering control in tough formations up to 5,000 psi (34.5 MPa). When you need to navigate challenging ground while keeping your bore path accurate, this bit delivers the steering performance other rock drilling bits sacrifice for durability.
“The Ultra X3 system’s quick-change spline connection has proven incredibly popular with contractors,” said Cody Mecham, product manager for Vermeer Cutting Edge. “The platform was designed for versatility: quick tooling changes, compatibility across different bit types and the ability to adapt to changing ground conditions. These new bits expand that tooling range so contractors have exactly what they need to excel in every ground condition they may encounter.”
The 2Thirty HDD bit: Rock drilling power for extreme conditions
Built for maximum durability
Two oversized conical teeth positioned at a 30-degree angle provide optimal cutting performance in brutal conditions. Strategically placed carbide buttons protect key wear areas, while the rebuildable design reduces long-term tooling costs through multiple rebuild cycles.
Key applications
- Hard-packed soils with rock inclusions
- Broken rock and cobble conditions
- Projects requiring maximum bit durability over steering precision
- When you need more power than standard bits but want to avoid dedicated rock equipment
Available sizes: 6.5 in (16.5 cm) and 5.5 in (14.0 cm) for Ultra X3 375 system, 4.375 in (11.1 cm) for Ultra X3 325 system.
Learn more about the 2Thirty bit.
The Triple Threat HDD bit: Precision steering for challenging formations
Engineered for steering precision
Three laser-clad carbide conical teeth with tooth retention groove system provide reliable cutting performance. The elongated steering face and machined relief area in the center deliver superior steering control, while oversized carbide buttons resist wear in critical areas.
Ideal drilling applications
- Clay, caliche and hardpan requiring precise navigation
- Projects where steering accuracy is critical
- Challenging formations where standard bits lose control
- Applications requiring rebuildable tooling for cost efficiency
Available sizes: 5.5 in (14 cm) for Ultra X3 375 system, 4.25 in (10.8 cm) for Ultra X3 325 system, 3.5 in (8.9 cm) for Ultra X3 275 system.
Explore Triple Threat bit options.
Maximize your Ultra X3 drilling system investment
Both new HDD bits utilize the Ultra X3 system’s signature non-torqued spline connection technology. This means you can switch between bits using only two knock-out dowel pins – no breakout tongs or specialized tools required.
The expanded lineup gives you a complete range of options:
- Standard Ultra X3 bits for typical soil conditions
- Triple Threat for challenging ground requiring steering precision
- 2Thirty for the toughest soft rock before dedicated rock equipment
This versatility means fewer equipment changes on complex projects and more billable hours with your existing Ultra X3 system.
The bottom line
The new 2Thirty and Triple Threat HDD bits extend your Ultra X3 system’s capabilities into more challenging ground conditions while maintaining the quick-change efficiency that saves time on every job. Whether you’re facing hard rock formations or need precise steering control, these rock drilling bits help you complete more projects without additional equipment investments.
Ready to expand your drilling capabilities? Contact 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, UltraX3 and 2Thirty, are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries.
© 2025 Vermeer Corporation. All Rights Reserved.