A drill press is a reliable and popular option for creating straight holes, but it isn’t a versatile and worth investment for a small project. So whether you are a professional or seasoned DIYer, learning how to drill a straight hole without a drill press can be a special trick. Drilling a straight hole without a drill press can sound tricky, but there are some easier and cost-efficient ways that can be worth an alternative to a drill press.
In this research, we have revealed three easy, effective, and versatile ways to drill straight holes that accept different diameter bits and offer numerous rough straight holes at a time. Plus, the guide includes some pro tips to follow and mistakes to avoid for a better and safer drilling experience.
Guides to Drill a Straight hole
If you are in a hurry and need to create an accurate straight hole continuously, using a drill block will be a handy option. Even it’s a good alternative to the drill bit as it increases the versatility of the task. A drill block is also compatible with numerous drill bits which range from 1/8″ to 1/2″. This method is helpful for both professionals and seasoned handymen who need a straight hole with increased mobility.
Drill block
It’s a long-lasting attachment and easier to apply as it only needs to be placed over the desired surface and drilled to create a hole. A drill block is also available at cheap prices at both online and local stores. This drill block method offers an accurate, straight hole and is quicker to apply while being compatible with various sizes of the drill bit. But continuously using a drill block can damage the bit as it is made of slender material.
Using an L shape
This process may take a bit of effort, but it is effective for creating a straight hole. even the method will be a lifesaver if you don’t have a drill block or are in a hurry. To make the wooden joint, choose a 10″ long and 1.5″ wide wood piece. Then cut 2″ from the long end and make sure the end remains accurately square.
Now spread wood glue on the smaller piece and join it to the longer piece to maintain a 1″ distance from the end. You can also use a clump to make the joint firm while the glue is drying. At a time, make sure everything is perfectly aligned using a square. If you find the process time-consuming and you are in a hurry, use a screw instead of glue to make the L shape.
After creating the 90-degree angle tool, line your power drill up with the corner of the tool. Hold the piece against the working surface using one hand, and start drilling with the other. This DIY method will let you create numerous straight holes whenever you want.
In particular, this method will let you create different diameter holes combined with any drill bit, and the 90-degree angle joint is also easier to create. But you should be careful as the joint can be damaged due to friction while drilling.
Use the Reusable Jig
If you need to create plenty of holes at a time, you can follow this reusable jig method. Another good news is, a reusable jig can be made easily at home using an aluminium inflate rod and is also available at the nearest hardware store. But remember, the inside diameter of the aluminium rod can be different. So you need to buy a rod that has the same diameter as your drill bit. Use a calliper to be sure about the compatibility.
After buying the suitable rod, cut 1.5 inches from the end and place it at the tool’s angle. Use metal glue to make sure the joint is secure. Finally, you are ready to create an accurate, straight hole as this piece of aluminum will keep the bit straight. This process is superb for creating numerous holes at a time, and you can use the tool again and again. But the piece you will prepare won’t be suitable for different diameter bits as it is created based on a certain diameter.
Tips to remember while drilling a straight hole
Marking the spot using a pencil or marker is always important. It will let you easily find the exact spot to create a hole. This is especially true for creating lots of holes where one needs to maintain an exact distance and requires precision.
Stable the work piece
Drilling into wood or metal requires lots of pressure, and it may shake the working surface, resulting in an inaccurate hole. Even it may end up causing injury. Thus, it is vital to steady the work piece securely using clamps before starting drilling. The clamps should also be tightened enough so they can prevent messing up the straight line during the operation.
Start with gentle pressure
Whether the work piece is wood or steel, it’s always better to start with a slower speed and gentle pressure. Applying the full speed at the initial stage can be dangerous and split the work piece. So it is better to increase the speed slowly and at a steady rate. Doing so will greatly help you keep control of the drilling task and create a straight hole.
Don’t apply excessive pressure
The target is to let the drill do most of the task. The reason is that if you apply extreme force to the drill to create a hole, it can damage both the drill and the working piece. Many DIYers push the drill extremely hard as they find the drill bit isn’t digging and end up breaking the drill bit. If this occurs, stop drilling and replace the bit, as dullness is one of the primary causes of such difficulty.
Apply lubricant
If the working piece is harder to drill through, use lubricant frequently. It will make the penetrating task quite effortless, whether it is steel, block concrete, or other solid materials. You can use multipurpose oil or cutting fluid to reduce the friction as well as heat to prevent damaging the surface and the bit.
Don’t drill frequently
Drilling consistently can make the drill bit hotter and lead to a breakdown. Apart from these, the dust and particles created due to drilling can jam the bit and ruin the task, so strop drilling at regular intervals and pull out the drill bit from the hole. Then clean the working piece and the bit and let the bit cool down. This trick is especially vital for creating larger holes or working on brittle and sensitive surfaces.
Smooth out the hole
After creating the hole, smooth out the edge of the hole to prevent injury. Set the drill’s speed at a lower setting and run it around the edge to smooth it out. You can also use a deburring tool to do the same job.
FAQs on How to Drill a Straight hole
How to drill a hole without a drill?
There are plenty of alternatives to drilling to create a hole, and a wooden stick is one of them. Simply take two wooden sticks and create a bow using one of them by tying a strong string. Take the other stick and sharpen one end. Finally, place the sharp point into the wooden piece and apply pressure to create a hole.
Can I use a CD to drill a straight hole?
Using a combination of CD and hand drill, you can make a straight hole, but the process is mostly preferable for a work piece with a circular profile. To create a hole using this combo, place the CD on the working surface and identify the spot with a pen. Then attach the bit to the hand drill and start drilling on the mark.
How to properly drill a straight hole into the wall?
Drilling a straight hole into the wall is a simple task, but it requires some steps to be followed. Firstly, place the drill bit on the desired point. Check that the drill bit is placed level and remains at a 90° angle against the wall. After that, slowly press the trigger and start digging a bit into the wall to have a straight hole.
Final words
A drill press may be the easiest option to drill straight and accurate holes, but it isn’t the only option or the right one considering the mobility. So you should learn how to drill a straight hole without a drill press to be prepared to drill a straight hole in any condition. The method we have mentioned above will let you create accurate straight holes anywhere you require, whether it is an outdoor, large, or busy place. Despite, the methods are time- and cost-effective alternatives to the drill press.
