Drill Bit Irwin 10503858 HSS Pro Series 12 mm

Irwin 10503858 HSS Pro Series 12 mm is a high-speed steel drill bit designed for metalworking and general-purpose drilling. Manufactured by Irwin, this 12 mm HSS bit is intended for creating accurate holes in steel, iron and other common metals. Its HSS construction provides wear resistance and improved heat tolerance, making it suitable for repetitive drilling tasks with hand drills and drill presses in workshops, maintenance and construction environments.

Advantages

The HSS material provides durability and resistance to softening under heat, maintaining edge retention during moderate to heavy use. The 12 mm diameter offers a balance between hole size and rigidity, reducing bit wander during start-up. Precision ground flutes ensure efficient chip removal and steady drilling performance. The bit is compatible with standard drill chucks and mounting systems used in handheld drills and drill presses.

Suitable for

• Drilling holes in mild steel and cast iron
• General-purpose metal fabrication and repair
• Workshop and maintenance tasks with hand drills and drill presses
• Construction tasks requiring metal hole preparation

Key specifications

• Material: High-speed steel (HSS)
• Diameter: 12 mm
• Intended use: Metal drilling (steel, iron and similar materials)
• Shank type: Straight round shank compatible with standard chucks
• Flute design: Spiral flutes for chip evacuation and cooling

How to use

Select an appropriate drilling speed for 12 mm HSS tooling and clamp the workpiece securely. Mark the drilling position and center-punch if necessary to prevent wandering. Fit the bit into the drill chuck and tighten securely. Begin drilling at a moderate speed, applying steady pressure; reduce speed and apply cutting fluid or coolant when drilling thicker or tougher metals to extend bit life. Withdraw the bit periodically to clear chips and allow cooling during prolonged operations.

Usage recommendations

Use suitable cutting fluid when drilling steel to reduce heat and improve finish. For accurate hole placement, use center-punching and a pilot drill when starting large diameter holes. Inspect the bit for wear or chipping before use and replace when cutting performance degrades.