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

[Mike Spalding]

Jim,

For soundboard panels, drill a small pilot hole, 2 - 3 mm, and use it as 
a guide to drill part way from one side and finish from the other.  With 
this technique you should be able to get by with either a forstner or a 
spade.  Attached is another legitimate use for forstners.

Mike

On 12/19/2012 8:59 PM, Jim Ialeggio wrote:
> 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
>
>

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