Chicago-latrobe 46108 Jobber Drill Bit Wire 38 Hss 118 Deg

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 46108 is a jobber-length drill bit designed for general-purpose drilling in steel and similar materials. It carries a wire gauge size of 38, which corresponds to a decimal diameter of 0.1015 inches. The bit is manufactured from high speed steel and features a bright, uncoated finish. A 118-degree standard point angle provides reliable centering on flat and curved surfaces. The spiral flute geometry is a fast-spiral type with a tapered web and web-thinned point, which reduces thrust and helps with chip evacuation. Licensed HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical trades rely on this size for pilot holes, sheet metal, and general fabrication work.

The 46108 is suited for light metalworking and general shop drilling where a wire-gauge bit in the 38 size is required. Typical applications include drilling through steel plate, tubing, brackets, and sheet metal up to the capacity of a standard hand drill or drill press. The straight-cylindrical shank seats securely in standard keyless or keyed chucks. With an overall length of 2.5 inches and a flute length of 1.4375 inches, it fits hand drills, drill presses, and portable right-angle drills commonly used in mechanical and electrical trade work.

Key Features

• Wire size 38 with a decimal diameter of 0.1015 inches for precise hole sizing
• High speed steel construction handles general-purpose drilling in steel and similar metals
• 118-degree standard point angle for accurate starting on flat and contoured surfaces
• Fast-spiral flute with tapered, web-thinned configuration reduces thrust and clears chips efficiently
• Bright uncoated finish allows easy visual inspection of cutting edge wear
• Straight-cylindrical shank with 0.1015-inch shank diameter seats in standard drill chucks

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style jobber-length drill bit for use in standard keyless or keyed drill chucks accepting a 0.1015-inch straight-cylindrical shank, compatible with hand drills, drill presses, and right-angle drills used in general trade and fabrication applications.

Installation Notes

Install the bit fully into the chuck and tighten securely before drilling to prevent slippage and runout. Ensure the workpiece is clamped or secured before beginning any drilling operation. When drilling steel, use a cutting fluid or oil to extend bit life and reduce heat buildup. Inspect the cutting edges before each use and replace the bit if chipping or excessive wear is observed.