Ihave inherited a bunch of drill bits. Is there a way to recognize whether a
bit is capable of piercing thin walled stainless steel versus wood?

--
Hank

"Henry B." <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote in message
news:JTR5b.44396$Zw4.32356@lakeread03...
> Ihave inherited a bunch of drill bits. Is there a way to recognize whether
a
> bit is capable of piercing thin walled stainless steel versus wood?
>
> --
> Hank

Most bits are ground for metal drilling. Wood is incidental. For boring
holes in wood, brad point bits and Forstner bits are the first choice. Brad
points are sort of flat tipped but have a point in the center.

When drilling stainless, it is best to spray on some sort of lubricant.
WD-40 or a light oil will work.
Ed

Look at the shanks. If they are etched or stamped as HSS (high speed
steel), they are made for drilling metal and can also work in wood.
Stainless steel is very hard on bits. They will not last long in
stainless. Sharp bits, slower speed, more pressure - stop and sharpen
or replace as soon as they quit cutting, once the stainless is turning
blue it is work hardened and even harder to drill.

Here are some choices:
http://www.triumphtwistdrill.com/products/jobber.asp

--

####################
Keep the whole world singing. . .
Dan G
(remove the 7)


"Henry B." <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote in message
news:JTR5b.44396$Zw4.32356@lakeread03...
> Ihave inherited a bunch of drill bits. Is there a way to recognize
whether a
> bit is capable of piercing thin walled stainless steel versus wood?
>
> --
> Hank
>
>