On Mon, 12 Mar 2018 07:25:38 -0700, pyotr filipivich
wrote:

Larry Jaques on Sun, 11 Mar 2018
17:03:16 -0700 typed in rec.crafts.metalworking the following:
On Sat, 10 Mar 2018 07:40:56 -0800, pyotr filipivich
wrote:
Larry Jaques on Fri, 09 Mar 2018
08:00:48 -0800 typed in rec.crafts.metalworking the following:
I bought the kits eons ago, then made my own centering device.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/General-...1014/205585492
They came with brad point bits, so they don't drift so easily. Trying
to fit 2 boards together with imprecisely drilled dowel holes is like
herding cats. Jus tain't possible.

Hence the reason I had for wanting a long auger bit. The need for
through holes on two 3" inch boards.

You can buy long brad point bits. https://is.gd/6aBAEs and other
sources.

Will have to look into those.

I forgot to mention dowel centers. You drill holes in one board, put
the centers in the holes, then match up the other board to it and tap
against the points, marking the second board precisely.
https://is.gd/ldqXBh

My problem is: no means to be sure I've the axis of the second
hole aligned with that of the first.

If you don't have a drill press, get one. Or (less ChaChing) get a
drill guide (the tool you strap onto a VSR drill, great if you have a
second drill motor) https://is.gd/PkiEoc

I have the old 90-degree model, a PortAlign. I could slide the base up
and have the rods align with the plane of the board while centering
it. http://www.cab1net.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=634


So long bits, drill one long
hole and cutting it in half (or thirds,with the extra hole can be used
in handles or other projects.)

(I have absolutely no idea what that meant.)
OK, 4th read--guessing you're talking about drilling a single board
and then ripping (with grain) down to 2 or 3 pieces? How could an
extra 1/4" (or larger) hole work for a handle?

--
Silence is more musical than any song.
-- Christina Rossetti