Value Collection 01378173 Cobalt Drill Bit Size 17

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION 01378173 is a cobalt screw machine length drill bit designed for heavy-duty drilling in hard and abrasive materials. Built to wire gauge size 17 with a decimal equivalent of 0.1730 inches, this bit features a 135-degree split point that reduces walking on entry and lowers the thrust needed to start the cut. The straw-finish cobalt construction resists heat generated during high-speed drilling, making it well suited for stainless steel, high-nickel alloys, and other tough workpiece materials. With a 2-3/16 inch overall length and a straight shank, it mounts directly in standard drill chucks and short-stroke drill presses. Machinists, maintenance mechanics, and metalworking trades reach for this style when production drilling requires consistent hole quality at close tolerances.

Screw machine length drill bits are preferred in CNC machining centers, turret lathes, and bench drill presses where rigidity and minimal deflection matter. The shorter body compared to a jobber-length bit reduces chatter and improves hole straightness when drilling metals such as stainless steel, tool steel, and cast iron. The 135-degree split point geometry is also effective on thin-gauge sheet metal, as it minimizes breakthrough burr. This bit is sold individually but is available in multiples, making it practical for production environments where tooling is consumed regularly.

Key Features

• Cobalt construction for elevated heat resistance when drilling hard and abrasive metals
• 135-degree split point reduces drill walk and lowers feed pressure at entry
• Screw machine length body provides added rigidity and reduced deflection versus jobber length
• Straw finish indicates cobalt content and provides a degree of lubricity
• Right-hand cutting direction compatible with standard drill press and CNC spindle rotation
• Straight shank fits standard three-jaw drill chucks without adapters

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or production tooling option for any application requiring a wire gauge size 17 straight-shank drill bit with a 135-degree split point; fits drill presses, CNC machining centers, and hand-held drills equipped with a standard chuck accepting straight-shank bits in the 0.1500 to 0.2000 inch decimal inch size range.

Installation Notes

Secure the straight shank firmly in a properly sized drill chuck before operation and verify the chuck key is removed before powering the spindle. Cobalt bits perform best when appropriate cutting fluid or coolant is applied to the workpiece, reducing heat buildup at the cutting edge. Do not use excessive feed pressure, as overloading a cobalt bit on interrupted cuts or hard inclusions can cause tip chipping. Always wear appropriate eye protection and follow applicable shop safety practices when operating drilling equipment.