Jim,
It might be well to mention that when the drill bit breaks thru the tab, it often leaves a raised section on the off side. This is especially true of brass. When the novice builder goes to remove the part, if not done carefully, a chunk of wood will be ripped out of the stock. Since your inlets are very tight, this could be a problem for them, especially on the slender forearms when removing the thimbles. Once removed, it should be carefully filed smooth again.