Import BDNA-20944 Reduced Shank Drill Bit 7/16 in Hss

Product Description

The IMPORT BDNA-20944 is a reduced shank drill bit designed for general-purpose metal drilling in professional shop and field environments. The cutting diameter measures 7/16 inches with a reduced 3/8-inch Weldon flat shank, allowing the bit to fit standard 3/8-inch chucks while cutting a larger hole. The 135-degree split point starts on contact without walking, reducing the need for a center punch on flat stock. Overall length is 4-1/2 inches with a 2-15/16-inch flute length. The body is high-speed steel with an oxide finish that provides light lubricity and corrosion resistance during storage and use. Machinists, pipefitters, and HVAC technicians commonly use this bit type for drilling clearance and pilot holes in structural steel and plate.

This bit is suited for right-hand drilling in a wide range of ferrous workpiece materials. Primary applications include carbon steel, cast iron, high alloy steel, high tensile strength alloy, stainless steel, and tough alloy stock. It fits standard drill presses, mag drills, and hand-held electric drills equipped with a 3/8-inch or larger chuck. The three-flat Weldon shank design prevents slippage under torque, making it a reliable choice for production or repetitive drilling operations where consistent hole size and bit retention matter.

Key Features

• 135-degree split point starts on contact and reduces walking on hard or flat surfaces
• Reduced 3/8-inch Weldon flat shank with three flats prevents rotational slippage in the chuck
• High-speed steel construction handles ferrous metals including stainless steel and high alloy steel
• Oxide finish provides light surface protection and aids lubrication during drilling
• Right-hand spiral flutes in a regular helix clear chips efficiently from the cut
• General-purpose T8M series rated for use without coolant

Compatibility

Designed for use in 3/8-inch or larger Weldon-style chucks and standard keyless or keyed drill press chucks; compatible with right-hand drilling applications in carbon steel, cast iron, high alloy steel, high tensile strength alloy, stainless steel, and tough alloy workpieces.

Installation Notes

Secure the Weldon flat shank firmly against the set screw in the chuck or holder before beginning the cut to prevent bit pull-out under load. Ensure the drill press or hand drill is powered off and de-energized before changing bits. No coolant is required for this bit per the manufacturer specification, but applying a cutting oil to the workpiece is standard shop practice when drilling stainless or high-alloy material to extend bit life. Wear appropriate PPE including eye protection and gloves when handling drill bits and metal stock.