01M540 - Walter SST+ 5/8 Inch Cobalt Prentice Drill Bit with 1/2 Inch Shank

Heavy-Duty Precision with Walter SST+ Prentice Drills

The Walter 01M540 SST+ 5/8" Prentice Drill Bit represents the pinnacle of drilling efficiency for industrial applications. Engineered by Walter Surface Technologies, this bit is specifically designed to tackle the toughest materials found in MRO and fabrication environments, including mild steel, non-ferrous metals, and hard stainless steel alloys. The core of its performance lies in its material composition; made with a premium cobalt blend, the SST+ series resists high temperatures and maintains a sharp cutting edge significantly longer than standard high-speed steel bits. This durability translates to fewer tool changes and reduced downtime on the shop floor.

One of the standout features of this prentice drill is its compatibility and ease of use. The "prentice" design refers to its reduced shank—while the cutting diameter is a substantial 5/8 inch, the shank is machined down to 1/2 inch. This allows operators to drill large-diameter holes using standard portable power drills, drill presses, or magnetic base drills that have a maximum chuck capacity of 1/2 inch. To address the common issue of round shanks spinning under high torque, Walter has integrated three precision-ground flats onto the shank. This ensures a positive grip within the chuck, transmitting maximum torque to the cutting edge without slippage.

Efficiency is further enhanced by the exclusive point geometry of the SST+ line. Traditional large bits often require a pilot hole to prevent walking, but the 01M540 features a self-centering point that bites into the metal immediately upon contact. This eliminates the need for pre-drilling, streamlining the fabrication process. Finished with a special bronze SST surface treatment, the bit evacuates chips smoothly and reduces friction, preventing work-hardening of the material. For professionals demanding reliability and precision in heavy-duty drilling, the Walter SST+ Prentice drill is the tool of choice.