On 09/01/2012 06:49 PM, Smitty Two wrote:


To drill metal, you need a sharp, quality drill bit. Not the cheapo home
improvement center bits.

As long as it is a HSS twist bit, it doesn't matter if you buy it from
the big box; if he follows the rest of your suggestions it will work
just fine.

The only thing I would add is to start with a smaller bit and work up to
the size he wants.

Jon

You also need some cutting oil, although
lubricating oil will do in a pinch. Also, start with a 1/8" drill and
work your way up. High RPM for the small bit, lower as you get bigger.

Lastly, lean into it. WIth a drill press, the quill handle gives you a
lot of mechanical advantage without you necessarily being aware of it.
WIth a handheld drill, you have to put your weight behind it. If you
don't, the drill will just get dull, rapidly.

For the guard rail, since it's curved, you might want to center punch it
to keep the drill from walking.