ATCs and Little Tools

[SCzEngrgGroup]

When using small tools (small endmills, drills, etc.) and an ATC, how are the tools held? I'm planning on building an ATC for my mill using basically home-made Tormach-like holders, but Tormach only goes down to 1/4". Below that, they have collet chucks and drill chucks, which get real pricey. Are they any other options for holding drill bits and small (1/8", 1/16", etc.) endmills?

Regards,
Ray L.

[machintek]

I had a pile of 1/2 inch tool holders. Into these I could put small drill chucks with 1/2 inch straight shanks or small collet adapters. Thus these served multiple uses (as well as holding end mills).I could only afford the cheap ones from TRAVERS TOOL. But had to hone them a bit because carbide end mills would not fit.

George