Chicago-latrobe 55446 Reduced Shank Drill Bit 23/32 in Hss

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 55446 is a reduced shank twist drill bit designed for general-purpose portable drilling in wood, alloy steel, carbon steel, and cast iron. The bit features a 23/32-inch (0.7188-inch decimal) cutting diameter with a 1/2-inch straight-cylindrical shank, allowing it to be chucked in standard 1/2-inch drill chucks despite its larger cutting diameter. Constructed from high speed steel with a coated finish for added wear resistance, the 55446 carries a 118-degree standard point angle and a right-hand spiral flute configuration. Overall length is 6 inches with a 3-1/8-inch flute length, keeping the tool compact enough for confined-space work.

This bit is suited for portable drilling applications across residential and light commercial environments. Its reduced shank design makes it practical on job sites where only a 1/2-inch chuck is available but a larger bore diameter is required. Typical uses include boring clearance holes, conduit pass-throughs, and structural framing penetrations in wood and ferrous metals. The two-flute regular spiral geometry promotes efficient chip evacuation during through-hole drilling. It is a single-piece, individually packaged unit appropriate for tool bag carry or shop stock.

Key Features

• Reduced shank design: 1/2-inch shank accepts standard 1/2-inch drill chucks while cutting a 23/32-inch diameter hole
• High speed steel construction for durability across wood, alloy steel, carbon steel, and cast iron
• 118-degree standard point angle for general-purpose penetration without specialized grinding
• Coated finish improves wear resistance and helps reduce heat buildup during drilling
• Right-hand, two-flute regular spiral geometry promotes clean chip clearance
• Diameter tolerance held to +0.0000 to -0.0012 inches for consistent hole sizing

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style general-purpose replacement or stock drill bit for use in any 1/2-inch keyed or keyless chuck portable drill or drill press. Compatible with applications in wood, alloy steel, carbon steel, and cast iron as specified by the manufacturer for Series 190.

Installation Notes

Secure the bit firmly in a 1/2-inch drill chuck before use and verify the chuck key is removed prior to starting the tool. Power down the drill and disconnect from power or remove the battery before changing bits. For ferrous metal applications, use appropriate cutting fluid to extend tool life and reduce heat; no coolant system is integrated in this bit. Inspect the cutting edges before each use and replace if chipping or dulling is observed.