Blank Drilling Issue/Drill Press or Bit Problem?

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DKF

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Hello All:

I have run into a problem when drilling a blank for a Jr. Gentlemens pen with a 15/32" bit. After I finish, the hole is larger than the tube, and by tolerance than I would call acceptable. I doesn't seem to be as bad with the 25/64" bit. Could it be my drill press (old iron Craftsman)? Could it be the bit? Thanks for any and all advice and suggestions.

Don
 
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Yes, I am using the correct size. It is the bit they sent with the kit. I have learned from another post in the pen turning forum that CSUSA has changed the bit size from 15/32" to 12.5mm. I just purchased this about a month ago....wonder why they sent me the 15/32"...it has just too much tolerance?
 
Did you mic the bit to see ho big it really is? It may be the tolerance issue everyone has been discussing, but it may be as simple as a bad bit.
 
Have you checked the runout of the drill press? It can be done with either a dial indicator or block of wood and feeler gages. Chuck up a strait piece of rod and mount your indicator on the table. Turn the spindle by hand using the belt, not by turning the chuck directly. I think 0.004 or less is fine, anything more needs to be corrected.

Check the bit for straitness by rolling it on a flat surface, piece of glass, table saw top, etc. Also look closely at the tip of the bit. Some have the tip ground off center.
 
Russb:

You are correct. The 15/32" is still the bit they are shipping with the JG set. They are sending me another bit, and as well, I will be checking to make sure my DP is OK.
 
Like I said I am not familiar with the JG kit but there are some kits that the recommended bit is too large. In that case I find either a metric or letter size bit that I think is more acceptable......hope you find a solution.
 
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