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12 Best Step Drill Bit For Wood & Metal In 2024

If you have used a drill machine, you must be familiar with various types of drill bits. In any standard hardware store, you will find a dedicated section for drill bits where you can find hundreds of options. But, the main problem with traditional drill bits is that you would require a separate drill bit for every hole. Even though you can drill holes of larger depth with the drill bits, it is not ideal for drilling holes of various diameters simultaneously.

For that, the best option is a step drill bit. These bits offer multiple sizes on a single bit which makes the task a lot easier. With a standard set, you can get up to 50 drill sizes at once which allows you to create holes of varying diameters with ease. Today, we will be looking at some of the best options you can possibly find in the market right now. But before you buy one, make sure you keep the following things in mind.

  • Supported Sizes: One of the most common reasons to buy a step drill bit is the versatility of the application. Therefore, you must check the drilling sizes available with the set. There are a lot of options that offer multiple bits in a set which will grant you up to 50 options for drill sizes at once.
  • Finish Type: The finish type is also an important factor for drill bits. For any contact type too, the tool itself needs to be harder and stronger than the workpiece. Checking the finish type of the drill bit will let you consider the possibility of applications before you buy the unit.
  • Reliability: As we mentioned earlier, the contact type tools must have a strong build quality to offer a reliable experience. Apart from the build quality, you should also consider the assurance provided by the manufacturer on the unit. You can also prefer options from popular brands as they are currently being used by thousands of individuals.

Today, we are bringing you the best drill bits you can find in the market right now. While you go through our list, you will find the best options along with all the information that you need to know before you buy one. We will also include a “Buying Guide” for the same so that you can get more information about the specifications and properties of a step drill bit.

Best Step Drill Bit

Step Drill BitDrill SizesFinish TypeWarrantyBuy Now
Neiko Titanium Step Drill Bit1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, 7/8, 1, 1-1/8, 1-1/4, 1-3/8 inchTitanium-Check On Amazon
COMOWARE Step Drill Bit Set5 bits with a total of 50 sizesTitanium-Check On Amazon
Knoweasy Step Drill Bit3 bits with a total of 28 sizesTitanium1 yearCheck On Amazon
DEWALT Step Drill Bit Set3 bits with a total of 31 sizesTitanium90 daysCheck On Amazon
CO-Z HSS Step Drill Bit Set5 bits with a total of 50 sizesTitanium-Check On Amazon
Jerax Step Drill Bit1/4", 7/8", 1-1/8", 1-7/32", 1-1/4", 1-3/8"inchNitride hardening treated-Check On Amazon
FuWinet Step Drill Bit Set⅛ to 3/4 inchTitanium-Check On Amazon
Klein Tools Step Drill Bit7/8 to 1-3/8 inch-Check On Amazon
HYCLAT Step Drill Bit1/8 to 1 3/8 inchTitanium2 yearsCheck On Amazon
TEMO M35 Step Drill3/16 to 7/8 inch-Check On Amazon
LepoHome Step Drill Bit Set4 to 32 mmTitanium-Check On Amazon
Kowood Step Drill Bits3 bits with a total of 28 sizesTitanium-Check On Amazon

Best Step Drill Bit Reviews

1. Neiko 10194A Titanium Step Drill Bit

Neiko 10194A Titanium Step Drill BitWe will present one of the handiest as well as value for the money options on top of our list made by Neiko. It is also one of the most popular options because of its versatility.

The Neiko 10194A is our 1st choice for the best step drill on this list. This is a singular step drill bit that offers a variety of drilling options ranging up to 1 3/8 inches size within a single unit. There are a total of 10 variations available within this range which is perfect for starters and hobbyists. The Neiko 10194A features a dual flute design which makes it suitable for materials like steel, copper, and many other similar metals.

The step drill bit can easily cut through these materials without needing a lot of pressure or force. The tool itself is coated with titanium for additional durability and lifespan. The shank of the Neiko 10194A is 3/8 inch in size and introduces 3 flat sides to avoid slippage at the time of application.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 1/4 to 1 3/8 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • A total of 10 sizes are available
  • 3/8 inch shank with 3 flat sides

Pros

  • Shank is durable and avoids slippage
  • Steel tool with titanium coating
  • Best suited for steel, copper, and aluminum

Cons

  • Not the best choice for professional applications

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2. COMOWARE Step Drill Bit Set

 

COMOWARE Step Drill Bit SetOn the other hand, if you prefer a set which is a more suitable choice for professional jobs, our next choice from COMOWARE will be a better option for you.

In the 2nd place, we are putting the COMOWARE Drill Bit Set. This is a set of 5 step drill bits that offer a collection of 50 different sizes for drilling holes. The minimum hole diameter achievable with this set is 3/16 whereas the maximum diameter is 1 3/8 inches. This is a wide range of drilling sizes and will cover almost all types of applications. The COMOWARE Step Drill Bit Set is also made up of Steel with titanium coating on the outside.

The cutting angle for the bits available in this set is about 118 degrees and comes with an automatic center punch which further reduces the time required for each application. The drill bits provided in this set are suitable for a variety of materials such as metal, wood, and even plastic. The drill bit set arrives in a dedicated case where you can arrange the bits via size index for quicker access.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 3/16 to 1 3/8 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • Comes with a case
  • A total of 50 sizes are available
  • Double flute design

Pros

  • 118 degrees cutting angle for faster application
  • Case makes the bits easier for outdoor usage
  • A variety of drilling sizes are available

Cons

  • Additional options might be impractical for basic applications

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3. Knoweasy 3pcs Step Drill Bit

Knoweasy 3pcs Step Drill BitWe have yet another set of drill bits designed by knoweasy. This set, despite offering a large selection of hole sizes, is available within an affordable price range.

In the 3rd position, we have the Knoweasy Drill Bit set. This set includes 3 pieces of drill bits that can be preferred for applications including workpieces made of metal, aluminum, and wood. The hole sizes available with this set ranges from 3/6 to 3/4 inches and are available within a set of 3 drill bits. It is also one of the most affordable options you will find, especially for a set of 3 bits.

Each of the bits present in this set offers a high step design that prevents you from over drilling. On top of that, the 2 flute design increases the material removal rate along with an overall smoother operation. These drill bits include a hexagonal shank which fits easily with almost any standard drill machine and offers optimum performance. The hexagonal design also works as a self-centering mechanism for the drill bit. This set is warranted for a year against any defects.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 3/16 to 3/4 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • 1-year warranty
  • A total of 28 sizes are available
  • Hexagonal shank

Pros

  • Shank design offers many additional advantages
  • Most affordable set of drill bits
  • Comes with a warranty period

Cons

  • Size variation does not offer larger diameter holes

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4. DEWALT Step Drill Bit Set

DEWALT Step Drill Bit SetDewalt is a well-known brand name for everyone who works with professional and industrial-grade tools. Apart from a range of power tools, Dewalt also offers accessories such as step drill bits.

Unlike the options you have seen so far, the DEWALT Drill Bit Set is rather a premium choice for a step drill bit set. The set includes 3 drill bits with a variation of 1/8 to 7/8 inch hole diameters. In total, you will find 28 different sizes within 1 set which is pretty good for the versatility of application. The bits are made up of alloy steel and feature a titanium finish on the top for better performance and longevity.

Dewalt also offers a dual flute spiral design on the drill bits to increase the chip removal rate. Also, the drill bits have a split point tip which increases the operation speed significantly. You will find laser engraved marking on each bit which represents the drilling sizes available on the bit. These markings are permanent and will not be removed until the tool is out of order. Dewalt is promising a 90 day return period if any manufacturing defect is identified in the drill bits.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 1/8 to 7/8 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • 90 days warranty
  • A total of 28 sizes are available
  • Laser engraved markings

Pros

  • One of the most popular brands
  • Guarantee of reliability from brand
  • Split point top for faster operation

Cons

  • An expensive choice for the choices available for drilling variation

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5. CO-Z HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set

CO-Z HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit SetCO-Z also has one of the most versatile sets present on our picks today. If you are not familiar already, CO-Z is a brand that designs a variety of products including domestic lighting as well as home improvement accessories.

If you want to get a budget-friendly set of step drill bits to help you with your domestic projects, the CO-Z Drill Bit Set is simply perfect for you. This set of 5 drill bits offer steel bits covered with a titanium coating to match the performance of industrial-grade tools. Even though it is a budget-friendly option, it features 50 different options for hole sizes, ranging from 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches in size.

Apart from the bits included in the set, it also offers an automatic center punch that creates a strong spring-loaded strike which ensures proper application in the first go. Thus, it is a very handy set for professionals as well as hobbyists alike. The titanium coating on the drill bits also helps to prevent corrosion and rust problems with the drill bits.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • Includes a center punch
  • A total of 50 sizes are available
  • A great option for beginners

Pros

  • Highly affordable set of step drill bits
  • A lot of variations are available
  • Supports large holes with 1 3/8 inch diameter

Cons

  • Comes with a triangle shank that might reduce the compatibility range

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6. Jerax Step Drill Bit

Jerax drillIf you already own a set of drill bits but it does not include the diameter that you want, the following option from Jerax might be a great addition to your set. This is a single-step drill bit with many drilling options.

Jerax Tools 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inch Step Drill Bit, a high-speed steel (M2 HSS) tool designed for versatile hole drilling in materials such as stainless steel, copper, aluminum, wood, and plastic. The advanced M2 composition, featuring increased tungsten and molybdenum, ensures superior durability. Further enhancing its performance, the drill bit undergoes additional vacuum heat treatment and Nitride surface hardening treatment.

Built for heavy-duty applications, the drill bit cuts through materials like stainless steel, hardened metal, mild steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, copper, plastic, and wood, handling up to 12ga/2.7mm thickness in stainless steel. With marked sizes including 1/4″, 7/8″, 1-1/8″, 1-7/32″, 1-1/4″, and 1-3/8″, this single step bit covers a range of hole sizes, eliminating the need for multiple bits and saving effort during drilling projects.

Best Features

  • High-speed steel (M2 HSS) construction
  • Nitride hardening treated finish 
  • 3-Flat shank type 
  • 135-degree cutting angle
  • Polished steps and size highlights 
  • High-accuracy CNC processing 
  • Suitable for stainless steel, hardened metal, mild steel, and more
  • Handles up to 12ga/2.7mm thickness in stainless steel

Pros

  • One of the most versatile step drill bit
  • Quite a cheap option for the features
  • Comes with a highly compatible shank

Cons

  • The drill bit is longer than most other options

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7. FuWinet 3Pcs Titanium Step Drill Bit Set

FuWinet 3Pcs Titanium Step Drill Bit SetFuWinet is bringing the most affordable set for drill bits present on our list today. If you wish to get the most versatile feature under a budget, FuWinet is a great option.

Coming up next, we have the FuWinet Drill Bit Set. Unlike most other sets mentioned so far on our picks, this set is the cheapest option and still features a lot of options for drilling sizes. With 3 pieces, the set offers variations of 28 different sizes. In this range, you will find that the minimum size available is 1/8 inch whereas the maximum size is 3/4 inch. Even with the variations in sizes, each of these drill bits is quite compact in size, making them ideal for portability.

The stepper bits included in the FuWinet Titanium Step Drill Bit Set are SAE standard bits and hence, you do not need to worry about its compatibility. Made with steel and titanium coating, you will get a great performance from the drill bits for a longer period of time.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 1/8 to 3/4 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • Most affordable set of step drill bits
  • A total of 28 sizes are available
  • Compact drill bits

Pros

  • Shank size is small and features a slot for better application
  • SAE standard drill bits
  • Bits are made of titanium coating

Cons

  • The largest hole diameter size is 3/4 inch only

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8. Klein Tools KTSB15 Step Drill Bit

Klein Tools KTSB15 Step Drill BitTalking about premium brands, Klein is yet another option that is preferred by a lot of professionals. Klein has been offering high-quality tools and accessories since 1857 which makes it a highly experienced brand.

Our next choice for the best step drill bit is also a popular as well as a premium option. The Klein Tools KTSB15 Step Drill Bit offers many premium-grade features on the drill bit along with drilling sizes varying from 7/8 to 1 3/8 inches. You will also find a dual flute design that allows you to get faster cuts while keeping the operating temperature under a safe limit. The Klein Tools KTSB15 Step Drill Bit also features a fast starting and non-walking tip which makes the task even easier.

The Klein Tools KTSB15 Step Drill Bit also features easily visible silver targets within the size variation to represent the standard drilling sizes. You will find the markings on 7/8, 1 1/8, and 1 3/8 inches flutes. Apart from that, the shank of this drill bit is 3/8 inch in size and offers a stronger grip on the machine.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 7/8 to 1 3/8 inches
  • High-quality premium drill bit
  • 3/8 inch hexagonal shank
  • A total of 3 sizes are available
  • Easily visible markings for the drilling depth

Pros

  • Spiral tool flute
  • Features a fast-starting drill tip
  • Hexagonal shank for best results

Cons

  • Only 3 size options are provided

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9. HYCLAT 5pcs Titanium Step Drill Bit

HYCLAT 5pcs Titanium Step Drill BitHYCLAT is bringing yet another highly versatile set of drill bits on the selection. You will find almost all necessary hole diameters covered with this set of step drill bits.

Our next choice for the best step drill bit is from HYCLAT. It is also a set of 5 drill bits like a number of options mentioned so far. And similarly, it features titanium coating on top of the steel body of the tool. This set includes 5 pieces that offer 50 different options for hole sizes. Thus, you can replace all of your traditional drill bits by purchasing this one set.

The hole sizes possible with the HYCLAT Titanium Step Drill Bit are 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches in size which covers a lot of standard hole sizes. Each of these drill bits features a double cutting edge for faster material removal and also a shank with 3 flat sides to offer more stable performance. In terms of applications, you can use these drill bits for chamfer, bore, drill, and even for enlarging the existing holes. HYCLAT is also offering 2 years of warranty on this set, making it the most reliable option.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • 2 years warranty
  • A total of 50 sizes are available
  • 3 flat sides on the shank

Pros

  • Shank includes 3 flat sides
  • Double cutting edges with X type opening
  • Comes with a long warranty period

Cons

  • Drill bits are very compact in size

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10. TEMO M35 Cobalt Spiral Flute Step Drill

TEMO M35 Cobalt Spiral Flute Step DrillTEMO is bringing you yet another great option to add to your existing toolbox. The next drill bit is also a single unit that features many sizes.

TEMO M35 is the only option from our list that is made up of cobalt and HSS alloy, unlike most other options that are made up of just high-speed steel. Thus, the application ranges widen a lot for this drill bit as it is suitable for harder materials e.g., cast iron. It is a very compact tool that offers a variation of 12 different sizes within the same tool. It offers holes of diameter varying from 3/16 to 7/8 inches in size.

The shank on the TEMO M35 is hexagonal in shape and 1/4 inch in diameter. You will also find the hole sizes stamped right alongside the cutting edges for better visibility. As the tool includes cobalt, it offers heightened heat as well as wear resistance. Thus, the production rate increases while using this tool as you don’t need to stop the process as often. It is also less likely to get blunt over time.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 3/16 to 7/8 inches
  • Very compact drill bit
  • Premium quality tool
  • A total of 12 sizes are available
  • Made up of HSS and cobalt alloy

Pros

  • Can be used for harder materials
  • Offered increased heat and wear resistance
  • Supports up to 7/8 diameter holes

Cons

  • Not compatible with all standard drilling machines

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11. LepoHome 3Pcs HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set

LepoHome 3Pcs HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit SetYou probably have not heard about LepoHome before as it usually deals with quite a different set of products. But, they are also offering a set of basic drill bits which is quite good for the price.

The LepoHome is also a great set of titanium-coated drill bits that can be used for a variety of applications. Similar to most tools we have seen so far, the LepoHome drill bits are also made up of steel with a titanium coating for best results. The variations for hole sizes on the LepoHome drill bits start from 3 mm and offer a maximum hole diameter of 32 mm. In between, you will find 27 other hole diameter options excluding the limits.

The LepoHome drill bit set also falls under the affordable category and is best suited for those who are beginners in the field or do not require professional-grade tools on a daily basis. You will also find the dual flute design on these drill bits that is common amongst the premium range of drill bits. And as the steps are high, you can easily notice when the operation is finished and stop before removing any additional material.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 4 to 32 mm
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • High step size
  • A total of 29 sizes are available
  • One of the affordable choices for step drill bit

Pros

  • 1/4 inch hexagonal shank
  • Best suited for standard soft production materials
  • 2 flute design for better results

Cons

  • Does not work well with glass, tiles, stainless steel, or ceramic

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12. KOWOOD HSS Step Drill Bits

KOWOOD Step Drill BitsIn the end, we are featuring one more set from a lesser-known brand called KOWOOD. This brand is also featuring a great drill bit set under an affordable price range.

Featuring at the end of our list, we have the KOWOOD HSS Drill Bits. Similar to a lot of options that we have seen so far, it also offers a set of 3 step drill bits that can be used to drill holes within the 3/16 to 3/4 inches size range. Along with the drill bits, a punch tool is also included which allows you to create a punch to make sure the drilling is uniform and precise.

With a 118-degree cutting angle, the drill bits included with the KOWOOD set offer a highly accurate drilling performance which makes them suitable for mass production. In total, you will find about 28 different sizes for drilling with this set which makes it a great alternative against traditional drilling bits. It has a hexagonal shank which is perfect for a lot of standard drill machines designed by either KOWOOD or other popular brands like Dewalt, Ryobi, and Decker.

Best Features

  • Drill size varies from 3/16 to 3/4 inches
  • Titanium finish on the tool
  • 118 degrees cutting angle
  • A total of 28 sizes are available
  • Accurate drilling performance

Pros

  • Hexagonal shank design
  • Anti-corrosive drill bits
  • Suitable for both domestic and professional applications

Cons

  • More hole sizes should have been provided

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Buying Guide For The Best Step Drill Bit

If your routine job requires you to drill holes through metal, you must know the compatible options for drill machines as well as drill bits that are compatible with it. If your work requires drilling holes of the same depth but varying diameters, it is recommended to switch to drill bits right away.

These bits are designed in such a way that you can drill holes of multiple sizes without needing to change the drill bit. This is a major advantage over traditional drill bits where you have to carry a large set of drill bits to the location of operation. Apart from that, there are many other features that you should consider before you buy the step drill bit set. We will be featuring all of the required information on our buying guide present here.

1. Material

The material used for the construction of a tool is a major factor for all types of tools. The material used for drill bits divides whether it can drill a hole through a particular workpiece or break in half within a minute of operation. For step drills, you should prefer the ones that are made up of high-speed steel if you are going to drill through soft materials like aluminum and plastic. For heavy-duty applications, you should go with cobalt step drill bits. Even though these drill bits can withstand intensive applications, a lot of tools including drill bits fail because of improper application.

2. Drill Bit Shank

The shank is basically the body of the drill bit which is held by the drilling machine. The shank portion of the tool represents the plain area that you insert in the machine before locking it in place. The shank has a specific diameter and your machine must support the shank of the drill bit in order to use it. If the drill bit is incompatible with your machine, there is no point in buying the bit. You can find out more about the compatibility of your machine on the machine itself, or the official website of the machine manufacturer.

3. Available Sizes

One of the major advantages of a step drill bit is that they offer a range of sizes for drilling a hole without needing separate drill bits. But, it is recommended to check the sizes available with a particular drill bit or set of drill bits before you buy it. A set that offers a diverse range of options will be comparatively more versatile in application and will offer you better value for your investment. However, make sure that you are not overpaying for a set that is not going to be much of a help in the future. For hobbyists and casual users, a single drill bit with about 10 variations in size should be the perfect option.

4. Finish Type

Lastly, we will talk about the finish type available with a particular step drill bit. Almost all of the drill bits that we have mentioned today offer titanium finish which is quite popular in the industry. As you may already know, titanium is a significantly stronger element compared to most standard elements used in construction and manufacturing. Therefore, a step drill bit will get the job done for you in most cases. Titanium coating on top of the tool reduces the friction between the tool and the workpiece and makes the drilling process less straining for the tool. You will also get a prolonged lifespan on a titanium finish tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a cobalt drill bit better than a titanium drill bit?

Ans: The material of the drill bit should be chosen with respect to its application. Titanium drill bits are considerably more popular in the market as they allow you to swiftly drill through soft metal such as aluminum. But for workpieces like cast iron and other similar hard metals, it is better to switch to a cobalt drill bit to avoid damage to the drill bit.

2. Are drill bits suitable for thick metal workpieces?

Ans: Step drills surely allow you to drill different sizes of holes without changing the drill bit. But as the name suggests, drill bits will result in step holes, which means the diameter will vary when you reach the depth limit for a particular size. Also, drill machines are not recommended for thicker workpieces. You should rather prefer a drill press for heavy applications.

3. How to sharpen a drill bit?

Ans: If you do not know already, it is recommended to sharpen your drill bit time after time. When you use a drill bit, its edges are scraped off along with the removal of material from the workpiece, making the tool blunt after a particular time. There are a lot of ways of sharpening a drill bit. Out of which, the easiest and most popular method is with a bench grinder. If you sharpen your drill bit at set intervals, you can expect a longer lifespan as well as quicker operations with the drill bit.

Conclusion:

There are a lot of drill bits that can put a hole through a variety of materials like ceramic, plastic, wood, etc. But when it comes to metal, the selection of drill bits available for the job narrows down to the strongest option as drilling through metals generates a lot of heat and friction.

Also, the drill bits must be made up of material that is significantly stronger than the metal itself. Today, we have brought you a selection of the best drill bits which will get the job done for you. If you are not sure which option is perfect for you, take a look at our buying guide to get an idea. Alternatively, you can check our recommendations present right here.

  • If you deal with professional work, you will probably come across applications that require you to have a selection of drill bits available simultaneously. For that, we will recommend the COMOWARE Drill Bit Set. This is a set of 3 step drill bits that includes over 50 different drill sizes. Each of these bits has a titanium finish and offers double-cutting blades for better material removal.
  • On the other hand, the FuWinet Step Drill Bit Set is a better option for hobbyists that do not need a professional drill bit set. You will still get a set of 3 drill bits with the drilling size varying from 1/8 to 3/8 inches. In total, there are 28 sizes available for drilling which makes it a value for the money option. You can use these drill bits for plastic, wood, and even metal.
  • Lastly, we will recommend the HYCLAT Titanium Step Drill Bit as it is a considerably more reliable option in the lot. This set is warranted for 2 years from the brand which makes it a great deal. It also offers 50 different sizes for drilling varying from 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches in size. Along with the bits, you will also receive an aluminum case to carry them safely to the site.

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