01M558 - Walter SST+ 29/32-Inch Prentice Drill Bit with 1/2-Inch Shank

Heavy-Duty Solution for Large Hole Drilling

Fabricators and welders often face the challenge of needing to drill large holes in the field without access to heavy stationary machinery. The Walter 01M558 29/32" SST+ Prentice Drill Bit is the ultimate problem solver for these situations. Designed with a reduced 1/2-inch shank, this bit allows you to utilize your standard heavy-duty handheld drill or magnetic base drill to create 29/32-inch holes in mild steel, stainless steel, and non-ferrous metals. It bridges the gap between workshop capability and job site portability, ensuring you have the right tool for the job wherever you are.

Durability is critical in a welding environment, and the SST+ series delivers. Made with a robust cobalt blend, this bit is specifically formulated to resist the extreme heat generated when drilling through hard metals. For welders working with stainless steel, this heat resistance is vital to prevent the bit from dulling prematurely. The bit also features a unique bronze surface treatment that helps shed chips and reduce friction, keeping the cutting edge cooler and extending the overall life of the tool. When the bit finally does wear down after extensive use, its high-quality construction makes it an excellent candidate for resharpening, providing long-term value.

Performance-wise, the Walter 01M558 is built to grab and go. The aggressive 135° split point design centers itself instantly, meaning you don't have to waste time swapping bits to drill a pilot hole. You can drill directly to the finished size with confidence. Furthermore, the shank is engineered with three flat sides. This "Prentice" style shank ensures that the jaws of your drill chuck get a solid bite on the tool, preventing the annoying and damaging spinning that occurs with round-shank bits under heavy load. This results in safer operation and more consistent drilling power.

Ideal Applications

• Structural Steel: Perfect for drilling bolt holes in beams and plates on site.
• Stainless Fabrication: Cobalt content handles the toughness of stainless grades easily.
• Maintenance & Repair: Enlarging holes or creating new ones in existing machinery without disassembly.
• Pipe Work: Excellent for drilling into round surfaces due to the non-walking point.