Recalled Product

Vermont American; 13-inch-Long Masonry Drill Bits

On 2006-06-09, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) published a recall regarding Vermont American; 13-inch-Long Masonry Drill Bits due to a potential explosion/projectiles hazard. This product sold new beginning in January 2001 for about $7.00 to $10.00.

About 700,000 units are involved in this drill bit recall. Instance(s) of injuries have been reported.
Get More Info + Learn What To Do

This was the 1st recall of products in the Drills & Power Screwdrivers category in 2006. Since 2005, there have been approximately 10 similar recalls, involving about 2 million product units. See other recently recalled Drills & Power Screwdrivers.

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What is the problem?

The drill bit packages are not properly labeled with precautionary information on proper use and operation. These and other manufacturers' 13-inch bits can bend when run at a high speed without being in contact with a work surface, resulting in loss of control of the drill and possible lacerations. The safety label should read:

Instance(s) of injuries have been reported.

How can I tell if I own this product?

The drill bits are 1/4-inch by 13-inches long, 5/16-inch by 13-inches long, 3/8-inch by 13-inches long, and 1/2-inch by 13-inches long. They were sold separately as accessories under the Vermont American brand name under catalog numbers: 14044, 14045, 14046, and 14048.

These items were sold new⁺ at Hardware stores and home centers nationwide from January 2001 through April 2004 for between $7 and $10.

What should I do if I own this recalled product?

First, stop using the item.

Then, add the item to a free, private Items I Own account. This will enable you to easily access the CPSC and recalling company's remedy instructions as well as track your progress toward getting the item returned or fixed. Click "I Own THIS Item" to continue.

The CPSC provides the following remedy information:

Consumers should make sure that 13-inch masonry drill bits are in contact with a work surface at all times while operating the drill. Consumers with these drill bits that are missing the safety instructions should contact Vermont American Customer Service to obtain safety warning information.

Call Robert Bosch Tool Corp. at (800)742-3869 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday thru Friday.

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⁺WeMakeItSafer cautions consumers that recalled items may have been acquired at different locations, prices and times than specified in the CPSC recall announcement. This is especially true for items purchased in online marketplaces, resale shops or yard sales. More information may be available in the CPSC recall announcement.