Chicago-latrobe 44488 Jobber Drill Bit Wire 18 Left Hand Hss

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 44488 is a jobber-length drill bit in wire size 18, with a decimal diameter of 0.1695 inches. It is manufactured from high speed steel with a bright, uncoated finish. The bit features a standard 118-degree drill point angle, a two-flute regular spiral configuration, and a straight-cylindrical shank. The 44488 is a left-hand cutting tool, making it suited for extraction applications as well as standard drilling. It is designed for general-purpose use and intended for installation or maintenance use by machinists, pipefitters, plumbers, and HVAC technicians who require precise, small-diameter drilling in metallic materials.

This bit is designed for use on cast iron and steel workpieces in general-purpose drilling applications. Its left-hand cutting direction allows it to function as a reverse-rotation extraction tool, which is particularly useful when removing broken fasteners or studs in field service and shop environments. The 3.25-inch overall length and 2.125-inch flute length provide adequate reach for typical mechanical and trade applications without sacrificing rigidity in lighter-duty drill press or hand-drill setups.

Key Features

• Left-hand cut spiral flute design for reverse-rotation drilling and fastener extraction
• Wire size 18 diameter at 0.1695 inches with a tight tolerance of -0.0007 to 0.0000 inches
• 118-degree standard point angle suitable for general-purpose metal drilling
• High speed steel construction with bright uncoated finish for visibility and corrosion resistance in dry cutting
• Web-thinned, tapered web configuration reduces thrust and improves chip evacuation
• Straight-cylindrical shank at 0.1695 inches diameter fits standard drill chucks

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose replacement or service bit for use in standard three-jaw drill chucks accepting straight-cylindrical shanks in the 0.1500 to 0.2000 inch diameter range. Suitable for use in hand drills, drill presses, and reversible power tools capable of left-hand rotation.

Installation Notes

This bit is installed by a machinist, pipefitter, or trade technician using a standard keyed or keyless chuck on a reversible drill or drill press. Ensure the drill or press is set to left-hand rotation before use, as standard right-hand rotation will not cut with this bit. Secure the workpiece firmly before drilling to prevent movement. Follow applicable shop safety practices and wear appropriate eye protection when drilling ferrous materials.