Abstract: A drill bit (26), the drill bit (26) comprising: a substantially tubular bit body (30) defining a body proximal end (32) and a substantially longitudinally opposed body distal end (34); a crown (38) extending from the bit body (30) at the body distal end (34), the crown (38) having a generally annular configuration defining crown inner and outer diameters (48 and 50); the crown (38) including a plurality of segments (46) provided between the crown inner and outer diameters (48 and 50), at least one of the segments (46) extending only partially radially across the crown (38) between the crown inner and outer diameters (48 and 50).