Counter sink success

[Jerry V Lape]

I have always struggled with getting a clean cut with countersinks.  Best I found was a carbide multi fluted one from MSC.  Needed to cut the counter sinks on a new butt plate and couldn't find the carbide one but I did remember someone on this board saying that placing a piece of cloth under the tool would make clean cuts.  Used a piece of cleaning patch and both counters were cut slick and accurate with a tool that previously performed poorly.  Sometimes the smallest victories are the sweetest.  

[Chowmi]

You are not alone!  My counter sinks in brass always look terrible.

Do  you mean to say you put a piece of cloth between the counter sink bit and the metal?

I'll have to try it.

Thanks!

[Bill-52]

I just use a thumbnail size piece of kleenix between the countersink bit and the brass. Works like a charm, no chatter. Not sure if the aloe in the kleenix has anything to do with it - never tested that.

FYI, I also lightly stoned the edges of the countersink bit so that it works more like a scraper than a drill bit.

Bill

[thimble rig]

Thanks guys for those suggestions I thought I was the only one that had that problem.

[C Wallingford]

A plain paper towel works for me.

[greybeard]

A plain paper towel works for me.

3 layers thick.
       Bob

[hudson]

On cutting a clean countersink all suggestions are good and have used many times. Adding  I would mention using a countersink with a single cutting edge and turn SLOW. If your drill press will not go slow enough shut it off and hit the work as it slows down, ease up on pressure just before it quits and repeat as needed. Putting a flat on the cutting making it a scraper was suggested for brass, works great. I will add putting a small flat on drill bits for brass works great especially for deep holes as the drill doesn’t grab. This is one you half to try to believe.

[frogwalking]

I must be doing it wrong.  I use a single flute bit and a little cutting oil and always get smooth counter sinks.  Now, if only I could get them all straight...

[Daryl]

Dad taught us to use cloth and it works.

[jerrywh]

 If you run them at a very low RPM it will work also. Most drill presses might not go slow enough. Anyway.. Very good tip.

[John Archer]

Hand-holding the work piece under a slow running drill press eliminates chattering.

John.

[gusd]

120 grit emery cloth  is what I use.
Gus

[JLBSparks]

I agree on the SLOW suggestions. 100-200 RPM.

   -Joe