Drill Bit for Dimpling Stainless Barrel

[prepare]

What size end mill?

[Cokeman]

I finally got around to doing this. How did I do?

I think it looks sexy.

FBA460CF-A6E6-4363-991E-862DFD0F792C.jpg

[RustyIron]

I am getting ready to dimple my barrel and want to get the right drill bit.

You CAN drill some stainless with HSS (high speed steel), especially if your just doing a dimple and using a sharp tool. Really, a cobalt steel bit is more appropriate. Carbide will work, but it's expensive for just a single dimple, and it chips easily. Go with cobalt. It's affordable. Just make sure you get a reputable U.S. or European brand.

More important than the cutting tool is technique. Run the drill at a slow speed and use cutting oil. Maintain sufficient pressure so the drill is always cutting. Do not back off the pressure and let the tool just rub on the work. Everything I'm suggesting is to ensure that you keep the work (barrel) cool. If you get it too hot by using excessive tool speed or insufficient feed pressure, then the stainless will "work harden." It can happen fast, but you'll know it it happens. Your tool will be cutting one moment, and the next it will be like your cutting through... well... hardened steel.

[RustyIron]

What size end mill?

Oops. I gave avise after you completed the project. It looks nice!

[Todd.K]

Stainless barrels are 400 series, so they don't require any special tools or techniques like high nickel stainless.

[Cokeman]

I already did the drilling. How does it look?

[elephant]

Straight shank, fluted drill - high speed tool steel. That's all you need! - 25 years experience machine shop owner

[tehpwnag3]

Looks fine. Install your GB.

I already did the drilling. How does it look?

[Osesellowe]

Can I do the same using an impact driver? It might sound like a silly question but I don't have a lot of tools at home.

[GH41]

3rd post and to a 2 1/2 year old thread and the question doesn't make sense to me. Maybe I am the dumb ass.