37 64 Drill Bit Guide: Size, Use, and Tips
A practical guide to the 37 64 drill bit, covering when to use this precise fractional size, materials, usage tips, and maintenance for DIYers and professionals.
37 64 drill bit is a fractional size twist drill with a diameter of 0.578 inches. It is used for drilling precise holes in metal, wood, or plastic and sits in the fractional inch sizing family.
What is a 37 64 drill bit?
The 37 64 drill bit is a fractional inch size, meaning its diameter is expressed as a fraction of an inch rather than a whole number. Specifically, it measures 0.578 inches across the cutting edge. It is a twist drill bit, most commonly used in metalworking and woodworking projects that require a precise hole diameter. While not as common as standard sizes like 1/4 inch or 3/8 inch, the 37 64 size appears frequently in engineering drawings and specialty fastener applications. According to Drill Bits Pro, fractional drill sizes like 37 64 are widely used in precision drilling for metal and wood. The Drill Bits Pro team found that enthusiasts often encounter this size when working on retrofit projects or repairing equipment that calls for exact hole diameters. For reference, you’ll typically find this size listed in sets that cover a broad range of fractional diameters, and you may need to source it from industrial suppliers rather than mass retailers.
In practice, a 37 64 bit behaves like other high quality twist bits: a conical tip, a shank that fits standard drill chucks, and spiraled flutes designed to remove material efficiently. If you are new to fractional sizes, expect some confusion because many home kits skip sizes between common integers. A bit like 13/32 or 7/16, 37 64 serves a similar role but at a unique diameter that demands careful measurement and verification before use.
Got Questions?
What is the exact diameter of a 37 64 drill bit?
The 37 64 drill bit has a diameter of 0.578 inches. This fractional size places it between common standard diameters, making accuracy important for precise hole drilling.
The 37 64 bit is 0.578 inches in diameter, so you’ll want to measure carefully to hit the exact hole size.
When should I use a 37 64 drill bit instead of a standard size?
Use the 37 64 drill bit when your project requires a hole of 0.578 inches, such as certain fasteners, dowels, or clearance holes specified by design drawings. If you don’t have a 37 64, drilling a larger hole and using a bushing or insert is not recommended for precision fits.
Choose this size when exact diameter holes are called for by your drawing or fastener spec.
What materials are best for this size bit?
High speed steel bits handle most metals and some hardwoods. For high hardness metals, consider cobalt or carbide variants, which stay sharper longer under cutting loads. Wood can be drilled with standard HSS bits, but maintain sharpness to avoid splintering.
HSS works for many jobs, but consider cobalt or carbide for tougher metals; wood benefits from sharpness and steady feeds.
How can I sharpen or extend the life of a 37 64 bit?
Keep the bit clean and free of chips. If sharpening is needed, use a proper drill bit sharpener or a grinding wheel that maintains the original flute geometry. Avoid overheating the edge, which can dull the bit faster.
Sharpen with a proper sharpener and avoid overheating the edge to preserve life.
Can I drill soft materials like plastic with this size?
Yes, but use slower speeds and plenty of lubrication to prevent melting or fuzzy edges. Start with a pilot hole if possible and ensure the workpiece is clamped securely.
Yes, but go slow and lubricate when drilling plastics to avoid melting.
What safety practices should I follow when using fractional drill sizes?
Wear eye protection, clamp the workpiece, and use the right drill press or handheld drill with stable feed. Avoid forcing the bit; let the bit do the cutting and back out regularly to clear chips.
Wear protection, clamp down your work, and let the bit do the cutting.
Top Takeaways
- Plan hole size exactly and verify with calipers before drilling
- Choose the correct bit material for the workpiece
- Use appropriate speeds and feeds for metal or wood
- Keep bits sharp and properly stored to prevent dulling