01M550 - Walter SST+ 25/32-Inch Cobalt Prentice Drill Bit with 1/2-Inch Shank

Industrial Grade Precision with Walter SST+ Prentice Drills

The Walter 01M550 25/32" SST+ Prentice Drill Bit represents the pinnacle of heavy-duty drilling technology for industrial maintenance and fabrication environments. Designed to bridge the gap between large-diameter hole requirements and standard portable tooling, this bit features a precision-engineered 1/2-inch reduced shank. This design allows operators to utilize standard 1/2-inch chucks found on portable power drills, drill presses, and magnetic base units to bore substantial 25/32-inch holes, eliminating the need for specialized heavy machinery for mid-sized boring tasks.

At the core of the SST+ performance is its material composition. Manufactured from a high-grade cobalt blend, this drill bit is specifically formulated to withstand the high temperatures generated when drilling through high-tensile materials. The cobalt content provides superior red hardness, meaning the cutting edges maintain their structural integrity and sharpness even under extreme thermal stress. This makes the 01M550 an exceptional choice for drilling stainless steel, a material notorious for work-hardening and destroying lesser quality bits. The tool is finished with a specialized bronze SST surface treatment, which not only acts as a thermal barrier but also significantly improves lubricity, aiding in smooth chip evacuation and reducing binding.

Operational efficiency is further enhanced by Walter’s exclusive point geometry. Traditional large-diameter bits often require a pilot hole to prevent "walking" upon startup. The SST+ Prentice drill features a self-centering tip that bites into the material immediately, ensuring precise hole placement without the extra step of pre-drilling. Furthermore, the shank is machined with three distinct flats. This "Secure-Grip" design addresses one of the most common frustrations in heavy drilling: bit slippage. By providing positive engagement surfaces for the chuck jaws, the bit transmits maximum torque to the workpiece, ensuring consistent cutting pressure and preventing damage to both the bit shank and the drill chuck.

Whether utilized in a maintenance shop for repairing heavy equipment or on a fabrication floor for structural steel work, the Walter 01M550 offers a blend of durability, precision, and convenience. Its robust construction allows for multiple resharpenings, providing a long service life and excellent return on investment for professional users.