Reduced Shank High Speed Steel Drill Bit 1-5/32 in - Versatile Cutter

Our review of this 1-5/32 in reduced shank drill bit finds it best suited to shop users and tradespeople who need a larger hole size from a portable drill chuck without changing collets or holders. The bottom line: it expands drilling options by combining a 1/2 in shank with a reduced body, letting users run larger diameter holes with standard chucks; the bit's high-speed steel construction and black oxide finish provide useful cutting lubrication and corrosion resistance for general-purpose metal and wood work.

Key Features

• High-speed steel construction: provides a balance of hardness and toughness for wear resistance in typical drilling tasks on low and medium tensile strength materials.
• Reduced shank design: lets a 1/2 in chuck accept a 1-5/32 in cutting diameter, expanding the size range available in portable drills.
• Black oxide treatment: adds lubricity and creates tiny surface pockets that help retain coolant near the cutting edge, reducing heat buildup.
• 118 degree point grind: gives predictable centering and good general-purpose penetration for both hand drills and drill presses.
• Spiral flutes, right-hand cut: evacuate chips up and out of the hole to reduce clogging during through-drilling.

Who It's For

This bit is aimed at contractors, home mechanics, and hobbyists who need to drill larger holes but want to use a standard 1/2 in portable drill chuck. It is also practical for drill press work where concentricity between shank and body matters.

Users who regularly cut very hard alloys, stainless steel, or need long production life should look for specialty cobalt or carbide options instead, as this HSS bit is optimized for low to medium tensile materials and general-purpose use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Expands portable drill capacity by allowing a large diameter with a 1/2 in shank.
• Good general-purpose cutting performance on wood and lower strength steels thanks to HSS and a 118 point.
• Black oxide finish improves cutting lubrication and part life in many routine jobs.

Cons

• Some users report variable durability and occasional chipping or faster dulling under heavy use, so performance can be mixed depending on material and technique.

Specifications

Brand	Drill America
Series	DWDRSD Series
Cutting diameter	1-5/32 in
Shank diameter	1/2 in
Material	High-speed steel (HSS)
Point angle	118 degree
Finish	Black oxide

Our Verdict

This reduced shank HSS bit is a sensible, value-oriented choice for anyone needing a larger hole from a standard 1/2 in chuck. It delivers useful versatility and good general-purpose performance on low and medium tensile materials, though those needing extended life on hard alloys should consider harder grades. For its intended use it represents straightforward functionality and decent value for money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this bit fit a 1/2 in drill chuck?
Yes, the shank is 1/2 in so it will fit standard 1/2 in chucks without adapters.

What materials is this bit best for?
It is best for low and medium tensile strength materials such as common steels, soft metals and wood; it is not optimized for hard stainless or exotic alloys.

Does the black oxide finish help performance?
Yes, the black oxide adds lubricity and small surface pockets that help retain coolant and reduce heat at the cutting edge.