57/64in x 12in HSS Extra Long Drill Bit with 1/2in Shank - Extra Reach

In this review the Drill America 57/64in x 12in HSS Extra Long Drill Bit is evaluated for users who need reach without sacrificing general purpose performance. The bottom line: this is a useful, straightforward extra-long twist drill for drilling in the iron and steel families when access is limited, and it stands out for its high-speed steel construction and black oxide finish that help with wear resistance and lubricity. Overall it is best for occasional heavy-duty use where a longer flute length is required rather than high-volume production work.

Key Features

• Extra length: The 12in overall length gives reach into deep assemblies and through thick fixtures where standard bits cannot access.
• High-speed steel: HSS offers a balance of hardness and toughness for wear resistance in a broad range of iron and steel materials.
• Black oxide finish: The treatment adds lubricity and creates small surface pockets that help retain coolant near the cutting edge.
• Round 1/2in shank: Round shank fits a variety of toolholding systems and standard chucks for easy interchangeability.
• 118 degree point: The standard point geometry is intended for general purpose drilling and easy centering in common steel applications.
• Spiral flutes: Right-hand flutes evacuate chips up and out of the hole to reduce clogging during drilling.

Who It's For

This drill bit is aimed at mechanics, fabricators, and hobbyists who occasionally need to drill deep holes or reach into confined spaces in mild steel and similar materials. Its extra length and HSS composition make it a practical choice when a standard-length bit cannot reach, and the round 1/2in shank keeps it compatible with common chucks and holders.

Users who work on high-production metal cutting or who need extreme toughness for repeated heavy use should look elsewhere for carbide or coated production drills. Also, anyone needing precise hole tolerance in very thick material should consider more rigid tooling or pilot drilling strategies to avoid wandering or breakage.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good reach for through-holes and deep assemblies where standard bits fall short.
• HSS material balances toughness and hardness for general steel applications.
• Black oxide finish improves lubricity and helps hold coolant at the cutting edge.
• Round 1/2in shank offers wide compatibility with chucks and holders.

Cons

• Durability reports are mixed; some users found breakage under heavy side loads or aggressive drilling.
• Not optimized for high-volume production or the hardest alloys where carbide or specialty coated drills perform better.

Specifications

Product series	DWDDL Extra Long Drill Bit
Diameter	57/64in
Overall length	12in
Shank	Round 1/2in
Material	High-speed steel (HSS)
Tip angle	118 degree conventional point
Finish	Black oxide

Our Verdict

The 57/64in x 12in HSS extra long drill bit is a practical choice when reach is the priority and work involves common iron and steel materials. It delivers solid general-purpose performance and useful chip evacuation thanks to its spiral flutes, and the black oxide treatment adds helpful lubricity. Buyers seeking occasional deep drilling and compatibility with standard chucks will find good value, while heavy production shops should consider more robust, production-grade alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this drill bit suitable for stainless steel?
It is designed for a broad range of iron and steel family materials; for stainless steel you should use reduced speeds and ample coolant to avoid workhardening.

Will the round 1/2in shank fit my drill press?
Yes, the round 1/2in shank fits most standard chucks and drill press holders that accept 1/2in round shanks.

Can this be used for production runs?
It is intended for general purpose and occasional deep drilling; for high-volume production or the hardest alloys, carbide or specialty coated drills are a better choice.