Thread: Just a quick thought. Size on pin holes?

Do you use a 1/16th, 5/64th or 3/32nd drill bit? I know it's more preference but I was just wondering what most people used..

Paul

1/16 in rod for me = 5/64 in hole it gives me just enough adjustment room, also you need to be especially careful with wood scales as a 1/16 rod and a 1/16 hole can cause splitting with just the slightest percussion bulge

We can't get imperial bits here in the UK but I use 2mm bits and that works well.

Originally Posted by gssixgun

1/16 in rod for me = 5/64 in hole it gives me just enough adjustment room, also you need to be especially careful with wood scales as a 1/16 rod and a 1/16 hole can cause splitting with just the slightest percussion bulge

I definitely found this one out the hard way. D'OH! Ah well - just meant that I had to fix up another set of scales. More tinkering = more fun.

Also - I don't have to worry about using my 1/16" anymore, as it snapped off on me when I was drilling a pilot hole on another project. Oops!

5/64 works best for me.

If I'm using a microfastener instead of a pin, they are slightly smaller than 1/16th, so the 1/16th bit works just great for them.

Originally Posted by gssixgun

percussion bulge

What is this?

Originally Posted by TwistedOak

What is this?

I think that he is referring to a lateral expansion of the pin stock when struck during the peening process.

I use 5/64. I will occasionally a 1/16 for tougher woods, but that's only if I can't find my other bits because I broke them off doing something stupid.