01M618 - Walter SST+ 1-3/8 Inch Reduced Shank Cobalt Drill Bit

Drill Big Holes in Stainless Without the Headache

Every welder knows the frustration of trying to drill a large hole in stainless steel only to have the bit burn up, wander all over the plate, or spin helplessly in the chuck. The Walter 01M618 SST+ 1-3/8" Prentice Drill Bit is the solution to those shop-floor headaches. This isn't your average hardware store drill bit; it's a beast built for the abuse of professional metalworking. The "Prentice" style means it has a turned-down shank, so you can drill a massive 1-3/8 inch hole using your standard 1/2-inch drill or mag drill. You don't need a specialized heavy-duty press to get the job done.

What makes this bit truly special is what it's made of. Walter uses a special cobalt blend that loves to eat stainless steel. While standard bits overheat and dull instantly on hard metals, the SST+ keeps its edge, hole after hole. It also features a Bronze SST coating that acts like a lubricant, helping chips slide out of the hole and keeping the temperature down. This means you spend less time sharpening bits and more time fabricating. Plus, the shank has three flat sides ground onto it. When you tighten your chuck, the jaws grab those flats tight, guaranteeing the bit won't slip even when you're leaning into a tough cut.

Forget about wasting time with center punches or pilot bits. The tip of the 01M618 has a unique self-centering geometry that grabs the metal the second it touches. It goes exactly where you point it, saving you time on every hole. Whether you are working on a truck frame, a custom stainless tank, or general structural repairs, this bit gives you the power to drill large, clean holes quickly and accurately. It’s a must-have for any serious fabricator's toolbox.