The invention provides a drill bit for a down-the-hole drill hammer. The bit has a head (2) at its forward end with a shank (3) extending from the head. The shank is screw threaded along its length. A reciprocating chuck (4) is provided as a sleeve with internal screw threads corresponding to those of the shank. The shank is releasably secured in the chuck with the rear end of the shank providing a striking face. An arrangement of external splines (8) on the chuck, and a retaining shoulder at its rear end, provide for the required guided movement of the chuck within a drill hammer wear sleeve. The bit is simple to machine with screw threads replacing the usual splines and other structural features ordinarily required on this component. These features are instead provided on the chuck and in the wear sleeve.