Bits and Depth Stop

This section goes over how to select an appropriate bit for the drill job you are performing.

General purpose drill bits are the most common bits for wood and plastic.

Plastic bits have a pointy tip, and are for plastic only.

Brad point bits make more precise holes in wood than general purpose bits.

Spade (paddle) bit: For large diameter holes.

Forstner bit: For large diameter holes.

Hole saw: For large diameter holes.

The chuck has three jaws that grip the drill bit.

Insert the bit with 1/8" to 1/4" of shank exposed out of the chuck.

• Turn the chuck by hand, until it’s snug.
• Tighten the chuck further, with the chuck key.
  • Immediately remove the chuck key.
• Rotate the chuck by hand to ensure the bit is centered, and the gears are fully meshed.

The depth stop limits vertical movement. It allows you to drill multiple holes at the same depth, and to avoid drilling into the table.

Tightening the depth stop lever will allow the quill to move down that far, from the current position.

• To drill a 1” deep hole in the work, set the stop at 1” while the tip of the drill bit is on top of the workpiece.
• To prevent drilling into the table, set the stop at 0” with the drill bit tip just above the table.