In laying beads in wood

[elk killer]

Been trying to learn how to make the beads all the same depth, not having much luck, this is for a up coming project, used hand drill on scraps of maple, bit is either to shallow, drill press is not a option as would be no way to hold the stock at correct angle, open to ideas, this rifle is by Shawn Webster, this is what I'm trying to make happin

[PPatch]

You might consider using a Finger drill...



You can control the placement and depth quite well with them.

dave

[EC121]

Drill the holes and shim the beads to the height you want.  A wood glue and sawdust paste filler might work.  Stain the sawdust and hole before mixing the paste.  Make a little gauge to set the height.

[Mike Brooks]

I'd drill the hole slightly under size then tap them in with a light hammer.

[Robby]

You could put a stop on your drill bit, and also use the techniques mentioned above.
Robby

[smallpatch]

Are you sure those are beads?  It seems pins would work easier?!?