I got extensive experience with drilling in steel, so I know the importance of correct sharpened drills, correct rpm, … I don’t got much experience of drilling in wood though. I need to drill about 40 through holes, diameter 5/8″ and 3/4″, thickness of the wood = 5″. Type of wood: nothing really good, don’t know but it’s certainly not oak or birch or walnut or similar. it’s cheaper and lighter. I got a milling machine, so it is able to take most types of drills. What kind of drill would you recommend for this?
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Replies
I would use a Wood Owl ultra smooth anger bit. Best thing I've ever used for holes like this. But there are others that will do the job.
Irwin or Jennings pattern auger, the type with a lead screw and huge flutes like for a hand brace. You'll never clear the chips with a twist bit.
Yes, the Wood Owls have three nickers and cutters instead of the two on most auger bits. They cut aggressively and are amazing with a hand brace. With an electric hand drill, they can pull the drill from your grasp. With a drill press, they can wrench the work piece from hold down clamps. Great bits but require caution under power.
Since I don't have a drill press it would be either my hand brace or electric drill. I'd go about half way from each side drilling to help keep things more aligned. As such, if you have a bit that extends about 3" you would be ok.
40 holes may be a bit slow but if you are retired or have time on your hands it wouldn't be that bad.
you can use IRWIN 316015 Cobalt Drill Bit Set for deep hole
If all you have is twist bits that just requires pulling the bit out several times during the drilling operation to clear the flutes.
You can try ShopSeries RK7033. Powerful and reliable tool. It’s suitable for a wide range of materials and runs smoothly.
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