End game for dowel drilling
This simple drilling guide ensures straight and centered holes on the end of the dowel.
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A recent project required the installation of threaded inserts in the ends of dowels. I rigged up this simple drilling guide from a thick piece of scrap to ensure the holes were straight and centered on the end of the dowel.
Start by drilling a 1/2"-deep hole in one side of the block using a Forstner or brad-point bit that matches the diameter of the dowel. Using the centerpoint of the hole, drill a through-hole to match the required diameter for installing the threaded insert. Place the jig on the end of the dowel and use it as a guide to drill a straight, centered hole.
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