Chicago-latrobe 44020 Drill Bit 5/16 Inch Hss Oxide

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 44020 is a jobber-length twist drill bit designed for general-purpose hole-making in ferrous and non-ferrous materials. Ground from high speed steel with an oxide coating, this bit runs in standard drill presses, hand drills, and drill motors commonly found on mechanical, HVAC, and plumbing job sites. The bit measures 5/16 inch (0.3125 inch decimal) in diameter with a 4-1/2 inch overall length and a 118-degree standard point angle. Two spiral flutes evacuate chips efficiently, and the web-thinned, tapered-web geometry reduces the thrust required to start and complete a hole.

The 44020 is suited for drilling cast iron and steel in residential and commercial installation work. Typical applications include drilling through structural members, mechanical equipment housings, panel enclosures, and pipe hangers. The straight-cylindrical shank accepts standard three-jaw chucks without adapters. This is a Series 150 general-purpose bit conforming to DIN 338, making it a common stock item for trade service vans and shop drill presses alike.

Key Features

• 5/16 inch diameter with a tight diameter tolerance of -0.0010 to 0.0000 inch for consistent hole sizing
• 118-degree standard point angle with web-thinned, tapered-web construction for reduced entry thrust
• High speed steel construction with oxide coating for heat and wear resistance
• Right-hand cut with two regular spiral flutes for efficient chip evacuation
• 3-3/16 inch flute length and 4-1/2 inch overall length — standard jobber proportions
• Straight-cylindrical shank, 5/16 inch diameter, fits standard drill chucks without adapters
• Conforms to DIN 338; rated for cast iron and steel primary workpiece materials

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose jobber-length drill bit for use in any standard three-jaw drill chuck accepting a 5/16 inch straight shank, including drill presses, corded and cordless hand drills, and drill motors used across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical trades.

Installation Notes

Installation of this bit is performed by electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and general mechanical contractors using standard drill chucks. Secure the shank fully in the chuck and verify the bit runs true before drilling. Always de-energize electrical panels and depressurize or isolate piping before drilling into or near live systems. Use appropriate cutting fluid or lubricant when drilling hard steel to extend bit life and maintain hole tolerance.