Description
The #44 drill bit (.086 inch OD) is the standard bit used for nail axles from Cub Scout kits and other kits. It can be used to drill axle holes, or to create pilot holes in the standard axle slots.
The Cobalt Difference
Unlike most drill bits (high-speed steel, 118 degree cutting angle, and non-split point), our drill bits are made of cobalt (a much harder metal) to minimize bit flexing. In addition, the cutting tip is 135 degrees and is ground into a split-point configuration. The 135 degree split-point provides more cutting surface right at the start of the hole, so that drill bit wandering is virtually eliminated.
Drilling Technique
When drilling into wood, there are three techniques that greatly improve accuracy.
- Expose only the amount of the bit needed to drill the hole — leave the rest inside the drill chuck. This minimizes the opportunity of the bit to flex (or break).
- Run the drill at full speed (1,500 rpm on a drill press, low to medium speed on a Dremel tool), but enter the wood slowly. This helps to make a clean entry hole, and minimizes drill bit wander and flexing.
- Drill about half way in, pull the bit out enough to clear the debris from the drill bit flutes, and then finish the hole. The pine sap limits the ability of the flutes to clear the debris. If you don’t clear it, it can jam up, resulting in an inaccurate hole and/or an overheated bit.
Pro-Body Tool
When drilling holes with a Pro-Body Tool/Jig, make sure the tool is clamped tightly to the block and the block is clamped in place. Then, making sure that the bit is parallel to the hole in the tool, spin the drill up to speed and enter the wood slowly. Drill about halfway in, pull the drill bit back to clear the flutes, and then complete the hole.
Drill Press
When using a Drill Press, use an accurate fence to stabilize the block and set the offset from the bottom of the block. Squeeze (or clamp) the block to the fence, then enter the wood slowly, clear the flutes at the half-way point, then complete the hole.
From Randy:
“Our #44 drill bit is a Cobalt Split-Point. This type of bit minimizes ‘wandering’ and flexing, resulting in more accurate holes.”
