Chicago-latrobe 44340 Jobber Drill Bit 0.028 in Wire 70

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 44340 is a jobber-length drill bit designed for general-purpose drilling in non-ferrous metals and similar materials. Built from high speed steel (HSS) with a bright, uncoated finish, it measures 0.028 inches in diameter, corresponding to wire gauge size 70. The 118-degree standard point angle provides a versatile cutting geometry suited to a wide range of shop and field applications. With a regular spiral flute and web-thinned, tapered web construction, this bit clears chips efficiently and reduces thrust during entry. It is used by machinists, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians for precision small-diameter hole work in metal, plastic, and soft materials.

The 44340 fits standard drill chucks and is appropriate for benchtop drill presses, hand drills, and CNC setups requiring wire-gauge tooling. Its straight-cylindrical shank seats securely in keyless or keyed chucks without slipping. The 1.25-inch overall length and 0.375-inch flute length make it suited to shallow-depth applications where a compact tool profile is necessary. Trade professionals working with sheet metal, enclosures, electrical panels, and control boards will find this size useful for pilot holes, knock-out clearance, and tapping preparation in thin-gauge non-ferrous stock.

Key Features

• Wire gauge size 70, 0.028-inch diameter with a tolerance of -0.0005 to 0.0000 inches for precision fitment
• 118-degree standard point angle for general-purpose entry into non-ferrous metals and soft materials
• High speed steel construction provides durability in repetitive drilling applications
• Bright uncoated finish allows easy visual inspection for wear or damage
• Web-thinned, tapered web reduces cutting resistance and improves chip evacuation
• Conforms to DIN 338 standards for jobber-length drill geometry

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-use jobber drill bit compatible with standard straight-cylindrical chuck tooling across drill presses, hand drills, and light CNC equipment accepting wire-gauge size 70 tooling in the CHICAGO-LATROBE Series 150D range.

Installation Notes

Install in a properly rated drill chuck and confirm the shank is fully seated and secured before operation. For small-diameter bits, use the lowest practical RPM to reduce deflection and bit breakage risk. Always wear eye protection and secure the workpiece before drilling. Dispose of worn or broken bits per shop safety procedures and replace before attempting to redrill off-center or in hardened material.