Drill Bit source

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Haynie

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I have come to the conclusion after not so thorough testing that the source of my micro fractures is the bullet point 12.5 inch drill bit I have.

I get perfectly cut holes with my Colt 10.5mm brad point bit. I am looking for a colt brad point bit in the 12.5 mm size. If they don't make it is there a comparable bit maker that does?
 
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Colt is made in Germany, where metric is standard.

Pretty certain bet that they MAKE a 12.5mm. I have no idea who might handle it, however.
 
I can't help a ton (because I don't use brad points - I use my drill doctor and normal bits), but if you have a hard time finding a 12.5, you COULD look for a 1/2" as its very close to that.

Funny thing is I would think that Craft Supplies would have one.. They don't - the closest is a 31/64, which is a hair smaller (and MIGHT work too, but I would know for sure). I'm surprised given the kits they sell that they don't have a 12.5mm or a 1/2".
 
In two words, Mike Redburn. I have very expensive bits from everywhere. Colt 5 Star, Norseman, etc. Mike's reasonably priced bits do just as well or better for me.

The bits I get from Mike seen to cut better, with less flex AND they tend to last longer. I'm not sure what all of his brands are (I know some are Colt) but they work great!
 
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If you are cutting a 12.5 hole in a 3/4 wood blank with a blunt nose bit you are asking for trouble. You can buy a .491 Forsner ( same as 12.5) bit for virtually nothing. On a 2" wood pen barrel, the Forsner might be a better solution
 
I also just purchased the Lee Valley HSS Lipped Brad point in 12.5mm and it works excellent. I also tried to get a the 10.5 but they don't carry it. I sent a email to customer service requesting them to stk this item,received a reply and they said they would review the request .If other pen turners email them we might get some quick action on this.

Thanks -Tim
 
I have a full set of these
http://www.victornet.com/report/Drill-Bits-Jobber-Fast-Spiral-HSS/101.html

These were suggested to me a long time by a very good pen turner. I have a full set I bought a little at a time. If I were to do it again I would not buy the numbered bits, only a few metrics, and maybe even none, rather I would buy SAE to 1/2 and Lettered bits from e to z. Then mic your tube and find the appropriate bit a few thousands larger, or even more if you are painting inside the tube. Numbered bits and the small lettered are too small for our application. Search around to find the thousands equilvalancy chart for all the bits, it is very helpful.

I also have a metric, thousands, and FRACTIONAL caliper that is very helpful. You can actually convert any measurement you have taken just by changing the type of read out.

This is all just IMHO.....
 
I got a 12.5 from Woodcrafts Wood River Line I like their bits very much have had no trouble and they are less than half of Colt.

Just my experiences.
 
Practically no one carries the Colt five star pen drill bit in 12.5mm. The only place that I am aware of is fine-tools.com. It will cost about thirty dollars shipped to the US.
 
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