#1 Easiest Trick to DRILL STRAIGHT! (Drill at Perfect 90 Degrees...Fastest Method!)
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#1 Easiest Trick to DRILL STRAIGHT! (Drill at Perfect 90 Degrees...Fastest Method!)
Drilling straight into wood or other materials can be very tricky, especially for newcomers. But this short video from The Honest Carpenter will show you what is, by far, the easiest and fastest method for boring holes at 90-degrees with a corded or cordless drill!
A Drill Block is a great way to imitate the efficiency of a drill press.
These little handheld tools help create the initial line-up for drill bits of various sizes, thanks to their calibrated metal sleeves.
Drill blocks can also be used on corners, and even rounded materials.
Thanks for watching!
The Honest Carpenter
Another advantage of using something like this is that it teaches you what being perfectly vertical feels like with your drill. It can improve your free hand drilling.
I know you have expanded and grown your business. But I have to tell you I really appreciate this type of content. I remember when you first started you had very practical content for guys like me who do not have fancy tools. We have a saw, drill , hammers and screw drivers and of course a carpenters knife and paint brushes. Thank you for this very helpful practical video.
You’re welcome, RK! Always happy to help 🙂
Amen!
Agree!
It's not a trick, it's a tool.
Tools do tricks. But yeah you have a point.
The click bait is real. You’d think he’d show the “tool” in the thumbnail ☠️
I tell you
TIP for centering the drill block EXACTLY where you want to drill. Use an awl to make a small indentation where the center of your hole is to be. Using a small bit - maybe an 1/8", drill about 1/8" deep freehand. Now fit the bit that is the size of the hole you want to make. Slide the drill block over the bit and all the way up to the drill chuck. Now, while holding the drill block against the chuck, you can place the tip of the bit exactly into the pilot hole while keeping the drill as vertical as possible, then slide the block down to the surface of the work piece. Now, while holding the block firmly, if it is not completely seated flush on the work piece, adjust the drill until the block is completely flush to the work piece and now your bit is exactly perpendicular and you can drill to the desired depth. For large diameter holes just use this process starting with smaller diameter holes and work your way up to the final desired diameter. This ensures the location of your hole is dead center of where you want it!
@peterm2227 yeah that seems much more useful than them doing the exact same thing but drilling a pilot hole first. It’s probably also more precise to just start with the tip of the bit you will be drilling with than their method, it’s probably easier to centre the point of a drill on a mark rather then centring the tip of the drill bit in a hole. It’s much faster too to just use a single drill bit and not have to worry about changing bits.
@conorstewart2214 that's how you crack wood
Thanks, Mark.
I made about the same point (except for the awl) then saw yours. Guess I'll delete mine now.
I'm a retired CNC Machinist and although I didn't need something like this, what I did need on occasion was a tapping block. Same concept but just for starting a tap straight. Made quite a few for me and newbies that came into the shop and they were so surprised and impressed there was something like that around. Not sure how long these have been around but now that I don't have a huge machine to drill my holes, this will definitely be on my Christmas list. Thanks for all of your helpful videos. Happy Holidays to you and all that visit.
I actually used the same one for drilling into tiles. The resistance and smoothness of the ceramic would often force the bit to drift without having a chance to get purchase. Because of the rubber on the bottom of the guide block, it stayed steady long enough to actually do its work.
Theres a simple Trick , Drilling into Ceramic Tiles , But you will have to watch ! My you Tube , if ever l decide to go Ahead with that !
I'm a senior female, I got one of these years ago. I noted that when I'd see others drilling, they'd appeared to be doing so at an angle, even did so myself. So invested in one of these myself. I love using it when needed ! Men folks don't expect me to know and have these little "do dads" on hand !😅😅😊
I got the same one when I wasn’t drilling straight for cornhole legs. Big difference for a novice like myself. You hit the best issues ALL OF THE TIME!!
Even better is a drill with integrated levels. That's why I'm still using my 1990's blue Ryobi drill. It has a horizontal level on top and a centering level on the back of the barrel, so both horizontal and vertical drilling is true. This no longer seems to be part of drill/drivers today, which is a huge oversight.
I glued a surface level to the butt end of my Makita, and it’s saved me a lot of time and trouble. Unfortunately there’s no room on top for a horizontal level.
I did the same but for this to work the piece has to rest on a perfectly level surface
I have that drill still and love the level. Unfortunately all my batteries are dead.
@@pazu8728 FYI, all Ryobi batteries fit all Ryobi tools, no matter how old.
You would think this would be cheap enough that all major drill manufacturing companies would design this into their drills. Unfortunately, EVERYTHING seems to be just getting to be more and more poorly designed pieces of shyte. I've been through 3 DeWalt impacts this year. The first one, I only drove 6 lag bolts with it before the bearing in the chuck broke so the driving bits fall out. This is a huge hassle. Especially if you're up on a ladder or scaffolding. The other 2 didn't last much longer. The FIRST 20V brushless DeWalt impact I had, when they first came out, lasted several YEARS before that bearing broke. I'm so sick of companies making everything cheaper and shittier but charging more and more money for their products.
Fabulous! Prevents it from bouncing around as well. Thanks, HC...this is terrific.
I didn't know they had saddles to sit on the edge of lumber!! That's so cool!! I could do dowel holes like that! Thanks!
2:57 really helpful. I’ve bought several of the items you show us as presents for my friends and relatives. Lots of workmen don’t know about a lot of these helpers.
This is a great tip. And very timely. I have to drill some deep-ish holes into the edge of 3/4" MDF to mount some furniture leveling feet. In the past, my wife would 3D-print a single-hole drill guide for me; I had no idea these multi-hole guides existed. I like Kreg tools, so I bought a Kreg drill block. I can't wait to get started. Thanks for the video.
Great video. I’ve found that using my middle finger (instead of my index finger) on the trigger of the drill has significantly improved the accuracy (angle) of my drilling. Your index finger ends up along the side of the drill, pointing in the direction you want to drill. Give it a try!
Yep! This is a technique we used in building airplanes, along with using an "egg cup." It does exactly what you said.
Amazing, thank you. I've been looking for something simple, quick and reliable. You answered all three!
I'm 49 and up until now, I didn't know these existed. What a simple and brilliant tool. Thank you!
I haven't really been that interested in these, but seeing how easy it makes drilling into a pipe or at an angle might have sold me on it Another tip I learned from Rex Krueger is to keep a 90° reference in your sight line while drilling or making a square cut. Just having the vertical edge there will make it easier to intuitively hold the drill vertically
I've been using one for years. Since I work with 6 different brands and sizes of drills/impact drivers, no two of them have the same feel. A drill block gives me consistent accuracy with all the drills I use.
Never knew a tool like that even existed. Thanks Ethan for the heads-up. 👷🏿♂️
Sure thing, W! 😄
Who said you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. lol Learning new things from you pros all the time. Appreciate it a lot Ethan. Keep up the good work my man !!
Thank you Bill, will do! 😄
Unreal Eric! I was not aware they even made drill blocks. Especially drilling at an angle, or the one with lines on the side.I appreciate your sharing, which adds to my gaining more knowledge and tools! 👍⚒🔧
I never knew something like this existed. Thanks for another very useful video!
As someone who is brand new to the DIY world, these helpful tips are so useful. Thank you.
Milescraft is a great brand with lots of practical little gadgets. You should check them out.
Very effective solution, especially for the ones who are not expert but curious for simple handwork. Thanks mate.
Thanks Ethan. It looks so easy I have to get one! You're the best. 😊😊😊😊❤❤❤❤
I could have used one of those blocks recently, but didn't know about them. Thanks for this tip for my future projects. 👍👍👍
Super simple and versatile too. It'll make a great stocking stuffer! Many thanks for all you do, I always appreciate your posts. Merry Christmas!
I've been subscribed for a good while now, and THIS is exactly why! It's all these little hints and tidbits that make you a great resource for amateur me! Thanks a bunch!
Great tip , i worked in the aviation for over 35 years , way way back , we made our own using a drill press or having the machine shop make them. They definitely are practical , love watching your videos 👍 awesome stuff
I'd think to make my own but where am I going to find a block of steel that thick?
I highly reccomend one of these drill blocks. SUPER cheap and super handy. I'm reaching for it in these situations often in our shop.
Also, when drilling put most of the pressure on the end of the drill opposite the chuck....not on the pistol grip. You will break less drill bits that way especially in metal.
I had no idea these existed! Your channel is the gift that keeps on giving. Thank you!
You just genius and you are truly "the honest carpenter" ❤
I'm glad you're posting new content
This is a very useful tool and video. To mark where I want to start drilling, I usually use a nail-set to make an indentation, then place the block over the hole, the tip of the bit will settle into the indentation and allow me to find the exact center.
This is great! I've never seen anyone demonstrating a drill block and I appreciate the tip. Thanks!
Many of us greatly appreciate your tips. Thank you.
Thanks. I've never even seen these before while browsing tool sections. Got you another sub.
Ethan years ago DeWalt use to have a 3/8 corded drill that had a level on the back of it for drilling straight but these days all the drills have gone away from that simplicity
You’re right Fred-a handful of models still being made today, but not by many companies!
Thank you for providing such incredible great advice.
Nice vids. Straight to the point with details and accuracy. Thanks!
I love your content. These tips are such a great help. I am also in awe of how neat your shop is. 🤔
Short and sweet! Great tips, thank you!
This guy is the best. Very valuable information, knowledge and experience 🙏😁❤👍
I have that exact drill block & it works great plus stair stepping your drill bits is an excellent idea.
Perfect for me. So many times without making a pre hole, with a nail, my drill would go in crooked. I saw this somewhere and though it’s just what I need. Thanks for showing how to use it.
Wow what a great, simple, and inexpensive idea! Thank you so much, I'm definitely going to get one!
Age 69, nobody ever told m about drill blocks before!
Me neither
This was a big help! Thanks for sharing this.
I happened across the milescraft block a few year ago and really liked it, great to know I'm not alone!
Brilliant. Thanks👍
25year carpenter, and this vid was great. I have never used one of these, and now I will be buying one tomorrow. Thanks for the tip!
Same here!
Thank you. You solved a bunch of problems for me in just 3 minutes.
thank you for showing me such a thing exists; i'm gonna check it out and buy one for myself ASAP!
I always like your videos. They are well done and informative.
Thanks Ethan. I have that exact block and it is great. Cheers
Thanks again. Great tip.
Brilliant ! I wasn’t aware of these but will get one. Thank you.
I needed an exact 90 degree hole a while back and ended up buying the Milescraft drill press you showed in the beginning. I had no idea they also did something called a drill block which achieved essentially the same thing. In fact, I had no idea drill blocks existed at all until this video! Having said that, I needed to use a Forstner drill bit for that task so the block would not have been suitable there but I think I'll get a drill block too as it is lighter and easier to use for normal drilling. Thanks for the info!
You do it exactly the way I’ve done it for years, and I couldn’t agree more! I even have the same guide. Maybe the first video I didn’t learn something new from you, but the confirmation made me feel good! 😂 A bonus tip: If the guide thickness prevents drilling to the required depth, I sometimes use a longer, narrower bit to get the depth I want, then remove the guide and drill with the bit I need. Starting with that full-depth pilot hole makes it nearly impossible to drill the final hole skewed. (I could also buy a collection of long bits, but I don’t really need them.) FWIW, years ago I had one of those portable drill press guides, and it was dreadfully inaccurate. Thanks again, Ethan, for your content, which is always clear, to the point, and great advice.
Thank you, Phil! Great points 😄
Thank you!
This is great! Thanks for posting this.
Very useful tip. Thanks a lot.
Great tip,thanks
I glue a bubble level to my drill. For vertical holes, that works well, but obviously doesn't do much when you want a horizontal 90` hole.
1) I love that you came out and are endorsing a drill block/guide. These little guys don't get enough praise. I don't know if people are embarrassed to use it or think it's gimmicky, but it really does the trick. I guess that's why you're The Honest Carpenter! 2) AMATEUR-TIP: Instead of having to worry about sighting your drill mark through the hole, or using a center punch as other comments mentioned, I go with something even simpler, and I think more accurate: Slide the drill block over your drill bit and slide it back towards the chuck before you go to drill. Put your drill bit down onto your drill mark, then slide the drill block down onto the wood. It makes sure your drill bit is where it's supposed to be without the drill block being in the way. Disclaimer: This tip is definitely a bit late, and I admittedly only glanced over the first 30 or so comments to make sure it wasn't a duplicate, but I apologize if others have mentioned it already.
Good tip thank you. I have ordered two from Amazon UK.
Very cool little tip!
I've always struggled with this. I'm about to be putting some cabinet handles in and will definitely use a block like this to make sure my holes are straight all the way through!
You might want to get a cabinet hardware jig. Kreg has one for about $25.00 It allows you to set up where your holes are gonna be drilled on each cabinet, in relation to the edge of the door, so once you have it set up,you take the jig from one door to the next, clamp it on, make your holes and move on. Otherwise, you have to measure for each door, and you are bound to have a couple of them end up off a little bit.
I also use a gob of modeling clay underneath a single bubble spirit level. You can align the chuck (with the 3 jaws retracted fully) with your surface and then adjust the level with the flexible clay underneath. Very accurate.
This is fantastic, thank you!
Thank you.
Brilliant that mate ,Happy New Year.
Excellent illustration.
Great and simple inventions, these drillblocks! I've got a few of them, all of different make and with different additional features: the simpler, the better, though. Don't look through the hole, but lift the block up to the Chuck, place the drillbit's tip in the exact location, bring the drill in a near square angle and only THEN press the block to the workpiece. Really, a child can do it.
I have one of those DrillBlocks. They work great when having to drill a quick perfect 90° hole.
Excellent method. Thanks!
another wonderful, useful video thanks
Thanks for sharing this . I added it to my Christmas list !
Very helpful. Thank you!
This helpfull, thank you!
Just ordered it! Thanks.
Although I'm originally from New Marske (1956-1981) I went to senior school in Marske by the Sea, back then it was called Bydales County Modern and I left in 1971. I met my first girlfriend in Marske Square and have spent many hours on the beach, it was even part of our school cross country course. This video brings back great memories. Thank you.
Very timely video, I'm doing a lot of drilling and something like this will be a big help to me. Only downside is that now I have to buy another tool. Oh darn, oh heavens no, twist my arm.
twist twist twist (is it working yet?)
Thank you!…you’re the best
I like the all metal Big Gator. Precise and comes with a plastic case
I love tips like these!
Did not know of these. For tubes very interesting.
I'm a fan of the Big Gator for its many hole sizes. I also try to mark with an awl or punch first, feed the drill bit through the drill guide hole, insert the drill bit tip into the hole, then slide the drill guide back down to be flush against the surface. Works wonders to drill holes perpendicular into joists for suspending ceiling storage racks or when using long drill bits.
I'm a noob and horrible in the shop 😂 I like these simple suggestions. Worth their weight in gold 🥇
Clever device!!!👌🏽
You sir have a consistently great channel!
I can use this tip! Thanks!
Thank you
been looking for a solution like this one...thanks a wack! 👍🏼
Good recommendation 👍
Mighty cool. Thanks for the tip.
VERY useful tip - thanks!
now that is an Honest advice !
Great tip, Ethan! Just in time for Christmas too.