This is a best practices type thread...

I thought I should share in case there is anyone out there who has never seen one of these before... It is commonly known as a center drill. Harbor Freight sells a 5 pack of different sizes for about $5. I am actually kind of impressed with the quality; I have been drilling quite a few holes and haven't smoked it out yet. Higher grade drills are available elsewhere but come at a price.

These are great for either starting a hole out for counter sinking a hole or maybe just a bit of deburring of a hole. I like them as opposed to traditional drill bits for starting a hole as they do not deflect as a regular drill bit will. To each their own but these will prove useful to just about anyone who needs to drill a hole in metal.

I have been using these drills for years but it dawned on me how useful they are when I recently attempted to drill without this (broke the last one I had until getting more). I got it done but with a center drill is so much better. A center drill could last for years if you apply spray lube before drilling.

 

Nice! I'll be grabbing a set of these next time I'm in. Super handy!

Center Drill Countersink Set 5 Pc

 

good tip, thanks. Some HF stuff is surprisingly good, and some of their other stuff is complete junk. Still, it's the best place to go for that tool you'll only ever use a handful of times.

 

Great tip! If this is a best practice thread....
1) Use a center punch after marking your hole to stop drill bit drift.
2) For fabrication, measure twice, cut once.