Harbor freight has in inexpensive drill press that will do the job if you're careful. Indispensable tool, IMOP. A good drill index too. Shop around, but don't pick the cheapest drills you can find. They won't last long.

Drilling by hand is possible if you're well skilled, provided the pilot holes are already drilled. Without a drill press, drilling the holes to diameter will cause the hole center to drift off. By drilling oversize and bedding the pillars you can achieve good results if you're careful. A good epoxy can make up for a lot 'bubba smith' ills.