Drilling hole through axis of aluminum bolt

[ChronoCube]

I am new to machining. I've done some drilling but not much. I would like to drill a hole through the axis of an aluminum bolt. The bolt is about 5/16" in diameter and 1" long. The hole will be 1/8". Is it feasible to do this with just a hand drill? I can secure the bolt on a work bench.

Thanks!

[holbieone]

do you have a drill press ?

if so clamp a block of metal on the table with a tap drill of the size thread on your bolt drill a hole
then tape the hole (don't move the block) then thread the bolt in the hole and drill away

put some never sieze on the thread if you use an aluminum block

[ChronoCube]

No I don't have a drill press. I don't do a lot of drilling so I've been fine with a hand drill so far.

[holbieone]

Originally Posted by ChronoCube No I don't have a drill press. I don't do a lot of drilling so I've been fine with a hand drill so far.

i have seen some people drill a nice hole with a hand drill , I'm not one of them

give it a try

good luck

Kevin