Milwaukee 48-20-5438 5" X 22" One Piece SDS-MAX Core Bit is a carbide-tipped core bit for large-diameter concrete and masonry drilling. This is a core bit designed for drilling large holes where the required depth is relatively shallow. Model Number: 48-20-5438. If you need a 5 inch opening and want the stability of a one-piece SDS-Max setup, this bit is built for that job.

What separates this bit from a standard drill bit is how it cuts. The Milwaukee 48-20-5438 5" X 22" One Piece SDS-MAX Core Bit cuts a kerf only, which means it removes the perimeter of the hole and leaves the inside core to be cleared by the operator before drilling deeper. That design is a smart fit for large openings because it avoids trying to pulverize the full diameter at once. In real use, that helps keep big-hole drilling more controlled and more efficient.

The cutting end uses asymmetrical and alternating tooth geometry to break material up faster. That is not just a spec line. On the job, faster material pulverization means the bit keeps moving instead of spending extra time grinding in place. Milwaukee also uses a fluted exterior on the core body to reduce friction loss and help clear debris faster, which matters when you are drilling wide holes that naturally create more resistance.

The one-piece construction is a big part of why this accessory makes sense for rotary hammers that accept SDS-Max tooling. With fewer connection points, more of the hammer's energy gets to the cutting edge. Milwaukee backs that up with a thick-wall core body that is meant to hold up even in large hammers. For anyone using a heavy rotary hammer for repeated concrete drilling, that durability matters because wide core bits put more stress on the body than smaller diameter bits.

In terms of size, this core bit has a 5 inch diameter, a 22 inch overall length, and a 3 inch drilling depth. That combination tells you exactly what it is meant to do: create large openings without pretending to be a deep coring solution. It is a better match for shallow penetrations, access holes, and larger pass-through work where hole diameter matters more than depth.

Milwaukee recommends using centering bit 48-20-5495 to reduce walking and help create an exact starting location, and the centering bit is removed with drift key 48-20-5497. Those accessories are not included, but they are worth paying attention to if clean starts matter for your application. For big-diameter masonry drilling, a good start can save time and keep the hole where you want it.

This core bit is best suited for users already running an SDS-Max rotary hammer platform and doing serious masonry or concrete work. General contractors, concrete crews, electrical contractors, plumbers, and HVAC installers will get the most value here when they need large, shallow openings for penetrations or access work. If you are drilling occasional small anchor holes, this is more bit than you need. If you regularly need a clean 5 inch opening in hard material, this is the right category of accessory.

Milwaukee 48-20-5438 5" X 22" One Piece SDS-MAX Core Bit for serious shallow coring work

This is a purpose-built core bit for guys who need a big hole in concrete or masonry and want a setup that can take real hammer energy without getting fussy.

• Who it's for: Contractors, electricians, plumbers, HVAC installers, and concrete crews drilling large shallow openings with an SDS-Max rotary hammer.
• Why it stands out: One-piece construction, carbide-tipped cutting edge, and aggressive tooth geometry make sense when diameter is large and the material fights back.
• Worth knowing: This bit is made for 3 inch drilling depth, not deep coring, and the recommended centering bit and drift key are separate purchases.

• What type of tool does this core bit fit? It is designed for SDS-Max rotary hammers.
• How deep can this bit drill? The rated drilling depth is 3 inches.
• Is this a deep coring bit? No. Milwaukee describes it as ideal for large holes where the depth is relatively shallow.
• Does it remove the full core automatically? No. The bit cuts a kerf only, and the inside core must be removed by the operator before deeper drilling can continue.