Is a Drill Press Necessary?

[jaegar]

I'm making my first fixed blade, and I don't have a drill press. I'm working towards getting one, but that will have to wait till harbor freight has a sale . I was wondering if I really need a drill press for fixed blades. I don't think I really have to worry about super square holes do I? My dad is afraid the bit would 'walk' across the metal without a press. What do yall use?

Thanks for the help

~Brian

 

[AwP]

While a drill press would certainly make my life easier, I get by without one. I use a center punch to mark the drill spot with a divot so it doesn't walk when I use my hand drill.

 

[ddavelarsen]

I didn't have a drill press for the first half dozen or so knives I made either. But you do have to drill square or the holes won't line up in the scales and you either won't be able to get the pins through, or they'll force gaps where you don't want them.

 

[Anthony Chaney]

Drill presses are great, but the work can be done by hand. To help you drill straight holes, clamp the piece your are drilling. Clamping is very important because it will keep your piece from moving. Next take a carpenters square and use it as a guide for your drill and drill your hole. Might not be the best way, but it will work in a pinch.

 

[Robert Dark]

There are all kinds of equipment to spend your money on, however, a drill press is one of the best investments you can make. Don't know how I got by so many years without one.

Robert