pin hole drilling

Kevin McGovern · Dec 30, 2015

I have been having some issues with drilling 1/4" holes. When i drill the tang with a 1/4" step bit, the 1/4" pin fits perfectly. When i drill my scales with 1/4" twist bit, it is tight. Not good tight, more like either hammer the scale on, or thin down the pin in the drill press with sandpaper tight. Not sure of my options. Drilling the scales with a 17/64" bit leave too much of a gap? the knife I am working on right now has a slight gap on one of the scales, that I am sure is caused by the scale not seating properly due to resistance. Thanks for the input in advance.

Jonathans · Dec 30, 2015

Assuming that the scales are wood, you might be experiencing the material springing back resulting in a smaller diameter hole than you intended. Try a Colt brad point bit for your wood drilling.

DevinT · Dec 30, 2015

Try using a reamer to clean up the holes.

Hoss

Kevin McGovern · Dec 30, 2015

i have had the issue with wood, but the one last night was canvas micarta with a G-10 liner. So can I chuck a reamer up in my drill press? like this one?:http://usaknifemaker.com/knife-maki...nk-bores-c-98-32/chucking-reamer-hss-1-4.html

DevinT · Dec 30, 2015

Yes

Hoss

Tom Lewis · Dec 30, 2015

Use a letter F drill it is a little bit larger than 1/4" .

SBuzek · Dec 30, 2015

Tom Lewis said:
Use a letter F drill it is a little bit larger than 1/4" .

This.. wood will compress in front of the bit and the refilll the hole some after drilling.

Maelstrom78 · Dec 30, 2015

F bit for 1/4 and #30 drill for 1/8 pins.

Kevin McGovern · Dec 30, 2015

where can you get an "F" bit?

SBuzek · Dec 30, 2015

big box store

http://www.homedepot.com/p/DEWALT-F-Drill-and-5-16-in-x-18-NC-Tap-Set-DWA1412/204787222

SBuzek · Dec 30, 2015

Just a side note, I buy all my drills from ENCO. Buy just the sizes you use and buy them by the dozen,when they get dull chunk em.
http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRIT?PMAKA=337-2314&PMPXNO=28074087&PARTPG=INLMK32

Google Enco free ship and you can almost always find free shipping.

Kevin McGovern · Dec 30, 2015

thanks all!

HSC /// · Dec 30, 2015

DevinT said:
Try using a reamer to clean up the holes.

Hoss

Yes reamer. Reamers make round holes, drills make triangular holes.