Drilling question

[pete28]

Hey folks just a quick question.  I got a couple of old bandsaw blades last week and profiled a few blanks. My question is I am having a heck of a time drilling holes for the pins. I simply can't afford the carbide bits.  I've broken at least 6 bits.  I have tried slow with and without oil and still no dice. I thought about heating the metal and drilling while hot but don't feel comfortable doing so. What methods might I be able to try?

[wolfy]

I have never tried to bore a hole in bandsaw blade material before, but I have successfully punched a hole through a power hacksaw blade......which I assume is at least as tough as the bandsaw blade.  I just used a simple carbide, spade-ended masonry bit and it seemed to work pretty well.  If you can start it in a divot from a good whack with a sharp punch, it will help with the bit wanting to wander.  You can sharpen the masonry bit on a grinder for better results.  It ain't a perfect bit, but it'll get you by for a few holes and they're cheap.

Good luck!

[MnSportsman]

Along the lines of Wolfys post:


http://www.ibuildit.ca/Workshop%20Projects/Shop%20Tricks/tricks-56.html


Sounds like it may work for ya...


G'Luck!


  I have been told that ceramic tile bits can cut through files before. I picked up a cheap set of 4 ( about $8-10) from a local store called Menards, but have not yet got around to trying them yet.
https://www.menards.com/main/tools-hardware/power-tools-accessories/power-tool-accessories/drill-bits-sets-accessories/new-england-carbide-4-piece-single-tip-glass-and-tile-drill-set/p-1444445243087.htm


Maybe they are inexpensive enough to try to buy at a local Lowes/Home Depot/hardware store? Or, you could order online from Menards too if ya like.


Like I said, "G'Luck!".

[pete28]

Thanks guys I'll definitely try the masonry bits and see what we come up with.  I'm also gonna try a sharp point

[wolfy]

Neat website, JB!

BTW......I haven't forgotten about the books, but Bill wanted to read the Ernie Pyle book before I gave it away......so, it's in Yuma at the moment.

[crashdive123]

Pete, if that doesn't work for you, this might.

[PetrifiedWood]

Crashdive has it right. You can spot anneal where you want to drill.

[wolfy]

If you intend to 'spot anneal,' be sure to use heat control paste on the blade, jam the blade into a raw potato or clamp the blade in the vise jaws inside a folded copper, brass or lead sheet to act as a heat sink and protect the blade temper & finish.

[upthecreek]

I'd jab it in a raw tater if it was me. Clean the blade first so you can eat the tater when you're done.

Creek

[crashdive123]

Another option is for you to give me a call and stop by the house.  I have carbide bits.

[pete28]

Great ideas and thoughts guys much appreciated.  Dave I love the idea and greatly appreciate the offer.  I may have to take a field trip to your place after the holidays!

[wsdstan]

I'd jab it in a raw tater if it was me. Clean the blade first so you can eat the tater when you're done.

Creek

I love conservation efforts when it comes to taters.  Great idea.

[hayshaker]

jantz catalog the jobber lenght bits work well
the also carry135 degree split point bits as well
prices are fair too. i used one a 3/16th bit
it chewed through a old crosscut saw blade
like nothing.

[Sundance Creek]

gonna hafta try this

drilling is my biggest challenge

I 'sharpen' the bit several times during drilling(I am not so good at sharpening)