What is a PBA Cut drill bit? The PBA Cut for drill bits was originally developed for use with the Litchco Pivoting Jigs (previously known as the Precision Ovalmatic) that were used in the PBA Tour Trailer. The Litchco Jig is taller than other ball jigs which reduces the clearance, so the length of non-PBA cut bits are more difficult and slower when changing bits. Standard drill bits without the PBA cut have a 1-3/4" tail but for PBA Cut Bits, we remove 3/4" of the tail, leaving the chuck-able portion of the bit at 1". There are benefits other than only using with a Litchco Pivioting Jig however, when using the PBA cut with non-pivoting jigs the bit bottoms out against the under-side of the chuck which creates a larger base to be securely tightened against the chuck. This helps in reducing bit "drift" and "wobble." The shorter length also makes chucking the bit easier and faster because there is much less chance of scratching a ball during bit changes. Because the two different cuts produce 3/4" difference in total drill bit length, older standard bits cannot be gradually phased out and replaced with PBA Cut bits. The height of the power head would need to be higher for standard cut bits and lower for PBA Cut bits. For this reason it is best to go "all in" for PBA Cut bits or keep using standard cut bits.
