[pianotech] All points bulletin, or the case of the useless forstener bit

[Jim Ialeggio]

Calling all cars, calling all cars...be on the lookout for a specialty 
drill bit, posing as a cutting tool. Suspect claims to be armed, but is 
not dangerous, as it couldn't cut its way out of a paper bag. Answers to 
the name "Forstener"...

Now really, I'm about to completely give up on Forstener bits. They 
should useful for cutting clean semi-large holes, especially in masonite 
and template stock, soundboard panels, etc, but they never live up to 
their billing, except in a drill press. And then only in certain woods. 
And then clog and burn before you can say boo. Does anybody get these 
bits to behave reasonably?

So I try all the bits in the shop for drilling a clean hole in a 
soundboard panel and masonite panel template. What comes up on top...a 
sharp cheap-o Spade bit, with the panel backed-up.

How do others manage a clean hole in soundboard panels...hand held or 
jig held?

Jim Ialeggio


-- 
Jim Ialeggio	
jim at grandpianosolutions.com
978 425-9026
Shirley Center, MA