Why do I need a piloted counter bore to install pillars?

[jonrobinson]

Why do I need a piloted counter bore to install pillars?

Can I not just drill the existing holes out larger in a drill press?

Thanks for the reply. I have read all of the popular links on glass/pillar bedding. I am just not getting this part.

Jonrobinson

[Eric in NC]

I don't use one - the drill bit will tend to wander when enlarging an existing hole but if you have the stock clamped on a drill press it can't move.

[Forester]

I don't use one either, I do take all the time necessary to set the stock up on the drill press nice and square.

[BobT]

I usually use one because it saves set up time, I do my pillar drilling on a mill.

Bob

[358Hammer]

When I was piller bedding I always use a piloted counerbore so I can follow a true existing hole. As stated, it sure saves time truing the stock to the tool for a precision hole.

If one is following a hole with a drill on a mill. The wood can not move if properly clamped. Maybe it was just me, but I got tired of the end of the hole drilled being off center from where I started drilling.

Put a piloted counterbore in the chuck and those holes came out nice with a minimum of setup.

Neal