On Mon, 29 Apr 2013 04:57:39 +0000 (UTC), John Doe
wrote:

Using ordinary tools, is that realistic?

Talking about an 8mm hole sideways through the rod (from one side to
the other), not down the center of the rod.

Thanks.

Why not? Assuming that you have a drill press as with a hand held
drill it might be a problem is your hands shake :-)

More seriously. Set the drill press for the proper cutting speed;
center punch the work or otherwise make a starting "hole"; and feed
just fast enough to cut a continuous chip.

--
Cheers,

John B.