Boring workbench to use clamping elements...

[clisbyclark]

The next stage in the construction of my new cabinetmakers workbench is boring dog holes.  I've got two MFTs clamped together that I'll be placing beside the workbench at the same height.  I've ordered a face/front vise but would like to try using my clamping elements instead of an end vise and dogs.  Has anyone ever tried this?  The top is 3.25 inches thick.  What drill bit would you recommend using to bore the holes?  I haven't had much luck finding a long 20 mm bit anywhere.  Will a 25/32 work?  If so, where can I get one of those?  Thanks for all your help.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

This topic has been discussed before.  It may be worth researching some of the older threads.  Here's a link to search results for "20mm bit".

http://festoolownersgroup.com/search2/?search=20mm%20bit

That should be a good start in addition to any feedback from members of the forum.

 

[mouppe]

I think a forstner bit would be best for drilling dog holes. Every inch or so of depth, vaccuum the waste out. Lee Valley sell a 20mm forstner bit.

http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.aspx?c=2&p=63566&cat=1,180,42240

Richard.

 

[Wood_Junkie]

I think a forstner bit would be best for drilling dog holes. Every inch or so of depth, vaccuum the waste out. Lee Valley sell a 20mm forstner bit.

http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.aspx?c=2&p=63566&cat=1,180,42240

Richard.

Good choice for the bit.
Alternative method, IF you're going all the way through.  Setup your drilling location and drill about 1/4" down with the forstner bit.  This establishes the outer edge "guide" which forstner bits use.

Switch to a 1/2" fluted bit and drill the rest of the way through to clear most of the waste. 

Switch back to the 20mm Forstner and continue the rest of the depth. Put your vacuum *underneath* to collect and clear the chips.  You might need one of these to make it all the way through.
http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2020430/4425/Forstner-Bit-Extension--38-x-4.aspx

 

[tbellemare]

I sell CMT products. They make a 20mm forstner bit.

The overall length of the bit is 90mm, which is slightly over 3.54 inches. I wouldn't want to poke a bunch of holes in 3.25" material with it.

You might want to check the OAL on any bit you choose. You have a tall order making those holes.

Good luck...

Tom

 

[mouppe]

If I understand the original post correctly, there are two MFTs clamped together. If so, you could drill through the first MFT whlst the two MFTs are clamped together until the centrepoint is established on the second MFT, unclamp the MFTs and finish the drilling of the second MFT. Clamping the boards together will also limit tearout.

I drilled the 3/4" dog holes on my workbench using a forstner bit. The top is 1 1/2" thick and it was quick and easy work. I used a drill guide similar to this one from Rockler.

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=2405

Richard.

 

[kev carpenter]

i heard you have to use a festool bit to get the right size for it to work

 

[waho6o9]

festool 09 catalog page 101  20mm  hss  part #490951
                            page 103  20mm  s/m  part #490971(3)

                              [smile]

 

[JeromeM]

The next stage in the construction of my new cabinetmakers workbench is boring dog holes.  I've got two MFTs clamped together that I'll be placing beside the workbench at the same height.  I've ordered a face/front vise but would like to try using my clamping elements instead of an end vise and dogs.  Has anyone ever tried this?  The top is 3.25 inches thick.  What drill bit would you recommend using to bore the holes?  I haven't had much luck finding a long 20 mm bit anywhere.  Will a 25/32 work?  If so, where can I get one of those?  Thanks for all your help.

A point to think on is that you only need a 20mm hole for about the first 20mm to 30mm the rest can be any size and only needs to clear debris from the bench.

 

[Wonderwino]

I use an 8mm shaft 20mm router bit with the LR32 system in my OF1010.  Perfect size, perfect spacing.  [smile]