Taper Length Drill Bits

Taper length drill bits are a type of drill bit that has a longer flute length than jobber length drill bits. This allows them to drill deeper holes than jobber length drill bits of the same size. The bits' shank diameter and flute diameter are the same. These bits are sometimes called long-series drill bits or long jobber drills.

Taper length drill bits are typically made from high-speed steel (HSS) and have a split point. The split point helps to center the bit in the material being drilled and prevents the bit from walking. Taper length drill bits also have flutes that help to remove chips from the hole being drilled.

Taper length drill bits are used for a variety of applications, including:

  • Drilling deep holes in wood, plastic, and metal
  • Drilling holes in thin materials, such as sheet metal
  • Drilling holes in hard materials, such as steel and cast iron

Advantages of using taper length drill bits:

  • They can drill deeper holes than jobber length drill bits of the same size.
  • They are made from high-speed steel, which makes them strong and durable.
  • They have a split point, which helps to center the bit in the material being drilled.
  • They have flutes that help to remove chips from the hole being drilled.

Disadvantages of using taper length drill bits:

  • They can be more expensive than jobber length drill bits.
  • They can be more prone to breakage than jobber length drill bits.

Overall, taper length drill bits are a good choice for drilling deep holes. They are strong, durable, and available in a variety of sizes. However, they can be more expensive and more prone to breakage than jobber length drill bits.

Tips for using taper length drill bits:

  • Use a sharp bit. A dull bit will make it more difficult to drill through the material and may cause the bit to break.
  • Use a slow speed. A slow speed will help to prevent the bit from overheating and breaking.
  • Apply pressure evenly. Applying too much pressure can cause the bit to overheat and break.
  • Cool the bit frequently. If the bit gets too hot, it can break. You can cool the bit by dipping it in water or oil.
  • Change the bit when it gets dull. A dull bit will make it more difficult to drill through the material and may cause the bit to break.

AFT carries several styles of taper length drill bits manufactured in the USA by Norseman Drill & Tool. S

High Speed Steel Taper Length Drill Bits

With a 118-degree point, HSS taper length drills are suitable for a variety of general purpose mild drilling applications requiring longer than standard length drills. They feature a straight shank and are available in fractional sizes from 3/64" to 1-3/4", #1 - #60 wire sizes and A-Z letter sizes. Drills through 1" diameter are given a bright finish, while flutes over 3/4" in diameter are surface treated.

Automotive Series Taper Length Drill Bits

General purpose HSS taper length drill bits feature a 118-degree split point and a tang drive. The drills are surface treated, and are offered in fractional sizes from 1/8" to 3/4". While not the same, these automotive tang drive taper length drill bits can serve as substitutes for taper shank drills when used with select split sleeve drill drivers.

Heavy Duty Parabolic Flute Taper Length Drill Bits

Though they can be used for a variety of applications, parabolic flute drills are best suited for deep hole drilling. The parabolic shape is applied along the length of the bit, and it allows the drill to penetrate faster than standard flute drills because it efficiently directs shavings or chips to the surface. This action greatly diminishes the need to retract the bit to clean out the hole. The parabolic shape combined with the extra length of the taper length drill bit and a 135-degree split point, makes these drills suitable for heavy duty, deep hole drilling applications. Parabolic taper length bits are available in fractional sizes from 1/8" to 1/2". Choose either titanium nickel coating or the more common black oxide finish.