This bit is recommended for Tapcon screws. How 'bout this?
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The BladeForums.com 2024 Traditional Knife is ready to order! See this thread for details: https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/bladeforums-2024-traditional-knife.2003187/
Price is$300$250 ea (shipped within CONUS). If you live outside the US, I will contact you after your order for extra shipping charges.
Order here: https://www.bladeforums.com/help/2024-traditional/ - Order as many as you like, we have plenty.
I Need Help!
- Thread starter JerryS
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That should work. I'd buy two.
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I've used TCT locksmith drill bits to drill through all types of hardened steel. Tungsten carbide drill bits should easily make it through tramontina carbon steel. I had a little trouble drilling through some D2 tool steel at 62 HRC, and it did eventually eat up the TCT bit after doing quite a few holes.
I also did all of this with a corded hand drill so using a drill press should be even easier. I also did this without a starting hole, just placed the TCT bit right onto the flat steel and kept it cool with water, dipping the drill bit in a bucket every 10 seconds, and spraying the steel when it got hot. You should be able to do it I can't think of a reason why it's not working if you get some good TCT or full carbide drill bits. I was using some cheap drill bits that cost around £5.00 each. Maybe the size of the bit matters, I was using 6mm and 8mm bits, maybe if you are trying to use 2mm bits they can overheat and deform faster.
I also did all of this with a corded hand drill so using a drill press should be even easier. I also did this without a starting hole, just placed the TCT bit right onto the flat steel and kept it cool with water, dipping the drill bit in a bucket every 10 seconds, and spraying the steel when it got hot. You should be able to do it I can't think of a reason why it's not working if you get some good TCT or full carbide drill bits. I was using some cheap drill bits that cost around £5.00 each. Maybe the size of the bit matters, I was using 6mm and 8mm bits, maybe if you are trying to use 2mm bits they can overheat and deform faster.
Cushing H.
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- Jun 3, 2019
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I ran in to this a year or so ago, and these carbide masonry bits DO work. Like drew said, buy two ... because they also can break. A couple hints from my experience:
Slow drill speed and plenty of pressure. No lubrication needed.
They wander on the surface before biting. Use a dremel diamond tapered bit to create a little divot where you want the hole. It does not take a lot, but works wonders for holding the drill bit in place and getting it to start biting into the metal.
Drill very straight. If you start going off center the tips of the bits will break. Drill press highly recommended
as others have said, use a hard backer. Use a piece of aluminum
be prepared for really weird noises
I will be using a full size drill press, so I guess that's a good thing. I've also already marked my holes in the steel with a center punch. The bits arrive today. I'll let everyone know how it went.I ran in to this a year or so ago, and these carbide masonry bits DO work. Like drew said, buy two ... because they also can break. A couple hints from my experience:
Slow drill speed and plenty of pressure. No lubrication needed.
They wander on the surface before biting. Use a dremel diamond tapered bit to create a little divot where you want the hole. It does not take a lot, but works wonders for holding the drill bit in place and getting it to start biting into the metal.
Drill very straight. If you start going off center the tips of the bits will break. Drill press highly recommended
as others have said, use a hard backer. Use a piece of aluminum
be prepared for really weird noises
Cushing H.
Gold Member
- Joined
- Jun 3, 2019
- Messages
- 2,714
The center punch actually bit into the steel? Might not be too extremely hard then, and thus easier to drill
I ran in to this with AEBL at 62 hrc. Tried the center punch. Only ended up with no divot at all on the blade, and a center punch I needed to re-sharpen to a point n my grinder
They were brand new punches. They didn't mark as deeply as I've seen on some steels, but I think they'll work. Cross your fingers.The center punch actually bit into the steel? Might not be too extremely hard then, and thus easier to drill
I ran in to this with AEBL at 62 hrc. Tried the center punch. Only ended up with no divot at all on the blade, and a center punch I needed to re-sharpen to a point n my grinder
I want to thank everyone for their input. The bits arrived last night and with a bit of effort drilled through the steel like a hot knife through butter. I've got the first hole drilled and will finish the rest today. Wouldn't have done it without ya'll's help. I will recommend this place to anyone in need of assistance. Your patience was immeasurable and I'm sure I may need help in the future. Bless you all!
P.S. I'll post a photo when it's complete.
P.S. I'll post a photo when it's complete.