Chicago-latrobe 55443 Reduced Shank Drill Bit 43/64 in

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 55443 is a reduced shank twist drill bit designed for general-purpose drilling in metal, wood, and cast iron. It features a 43/64 inch cutting diameter (0.6719 inches decimal) with a 1/2 inch straight-cylindrical shank, allowing it to chuck into standard 1/2 inch capacity drill drivers and drill presses without requiring a larger chuck. The 118-degree standard point angle provides a versatile entry geometry suited for a wide range of workpiece materials. Constructed from high speed steel with a coated finish, this bit is built to handle repeated use in portable drilling applications across job-site and shop environments. Licensed tradespeople and industrial maintenance technicians are the primary users.

This bit is intended for portable and stationary drilling in wood, alloy steel, carbon steel, and cast iron. The reduced shank design makes it practical when a large-diameter hole is needed but only a 1/2 inch chuck is available, which is a common constraint with handheld drills and smaller drill presses. The right-hand cut and regular spiral flute geometry support efficient chip evacuation during through-hole and blind-hole drilling. Series 190 from CHICAGO-LATROBE is positioned as a general-purpose line suitable for maintenance, fabrication, and construction trades.

Key Features

• 43/64 inch (0.6719 inches) cutting diameter with diameter tolerance of +0.0000 to -0.0012 inches
• Reduced shank: 1/2 inch shank diameter fits standard 1/2 inch chucks regardless of cutting diameter
• 118-degree standard point angle for general-purpose entry across multiple materials
• High speed steel construction with coated finish for wear resistance
• 2-flute regular spiral design with right-hand cut for efficient chip removal
• 6 inch overall length with 3-1/8 inch flute length for reach in deeper drilling setups

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose reduced shank drill bit compatible with any 1/2 inch keyed or keyless drill chuck on portable drills and drill presses. Suitable for drilling wood, alloy steel, carbon steel, and cast iron workpieces.

Installation Notes

Install in a 1/2 inch drill chuck and tighten securely before use. Ensure the workpiece is clamped or secured to prevent rotation during drilling. For steel and cast iron, use cutting fluid or a suitable coolant to extend bit life and reduce heat buildup. Inspect the cutting edges before each use and replace the bit if the edge is chipped or burned.