I need to drill holes at exact positions to affix large workpieces to my cnc for two-sided machining. My drill press is not large enough to reach all drilling positions, and drilling by hand often results in a non-90° angle. I know for metalworking there are magnet drill presses to drill holes in steel beams. But is there something similar for wood?

  • Tolookah
    150·
    3 months ago

    Can you drill a thick ish square of wood in the drill press and then use that as a guide for the big piece? (Clamping it down). That’s about what I would do. (I might use a metal insert on the guide if it’s super super critical)

    Note: I’m Not an experienced woodworker, I’ve used this before for drilling 3d printed pieces.

    • CM400
      130·
      3 months ago

      Yes, making a jig is the way.

    • alleycatOP
      30·
      2 months ago

      This type of guide would wear out too fast, I think. It would also take away from the drill length, which I need to drill relatively deep holes (high depth to Diameter ratio).

      • Tolookah
        30·
        2 months ago

        Then you likely want a hard drill bushing. That’ll let it be thinner than a wood jig, but still tool steel to not wear out. (Wood to support the bushing)

    • Revan343
      20·
      2 months ago2 months ago

      I mostly work with metal, but this is exactly what I’d do OP. If it’s not an option, then there are jigs you can buy that will work.