Chicago-latrobe 68917 Jobber Drill Bit 17/64 in Hss

Product Description

The CHICAGO-LATROBE 68917 is a jobber-length drill bit designed for production and maintenance drilling in steel alloy and similar ferrous materials. Built from high-speed steel with a bright uncoated finish, it features a 135-degree split point that reduces walking and lowers feed pressure on entry. The parabolic flute geometry clears chips aggressively, making it well-suited for deeper holes without pecking. At 17/64 inch (0.2656 inch decimal) diameter, it fits standard drill chucks and handles demanding hole-making in both shop and field environments. The web-thinned, tapered web design maintains rigidity while reducing cutting torque. Classified as heavy duty within the Series 150DH lineup, this bit is built for repetitive use under load.

The 68917 is used in metal fabrication, mechanical contracting, HVAC installation, and general trade work where precise, clean holes in steel alloy are required. Its straight-cylindrical shank seats securely in keyed or keyless drill chucks on corded drills and drill presses. The right-hand cut and parabolic flute profile make it a practical choice for electricians, pipefitters, and HVAC technicians drilling through structural steel, tube steel, and sheet metal stack-ups where chip control and hole accuracy matter.

Key Features

• 135-degree split point reduces drill walking and entry thrust force
• Parabolic flute geometry promotes fast, efficient chip evacuation
• Web-thinned tapered web lowers torque demand and extends bit life in steel
• High-speed steel construction handles interrupted cuts and high-cycle drilling
• Straight-cylindrical shank fits standard 3-jaw keyed and keyless chucks
• Heavy-duty Series 150DH grade rated for steel alloy primary workpiece material

Compatibility

Designed as a direct-fit jobber-length drill bit for standard drill chucks accepting a 17/64 inch straight-cylindrical shank, compatible with corded drill motors and drill presses used in metal fabrication and trade installation work.

Installation Notes

A licensed or journeyman-level tradesperson should select proper drill speed (RPM) for the workpiece material and bit diameter before use. Secure the workpiece before drilling and use cutting fluid when drilling steel alloy to extend bit life and improve hole finish. Inspect the cutting edges before each use and replace immediately if chipping or dulling is observed. Coolant-through is not supported on this bit; flood or brush-applied cutting oil is the appropriate lubrication method.