Can a drill press be used as a mortiser?
Simple improvements make a mortising attachment work great. Even though they’re sexy, benchtop mortising machines aren’t the only power-tool option when it comes to cutting square-shouldered mortises. A drill-press mortising attachment can be just as effective and it costs a lot less.
What is a square chisel mortiser?
The square chisel mortiser (also called hollow chisel mortiser), similar to a drill press in many respects, combines the cutting of a four-sided chisel with the action of a drill bit in the center. The bit clears out most of the material to be removed, and the chisel ensures the edges are straight and clean.
How does a mortiser drill a square hole?
Yes, you can drill a square hole with a round bit. Here’s how: An auger-type drill bit spins inside a hollow four-sided chisel secured to the mortiser. The bit itself locks into a drill chuck inside the head of the machine.
How do you cut a square hole in wood with a chisel?
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Use the framing square to draw the shape of the square onto your wood blank.
- Position the chisel on one of the corners of your square, with the tip touching the piece of wood.
- Tap on the chisel with the sledgehammer.
- Keep tapping the chisel until you cut through the wood.
What are square drill bits used for?
Square drill bits are also called mortise bits, and the writers from Banging Toolbox post that the best ones fit universally in most mortising machines and drill presses that have hammering functions.
Can you use a mortise chisel with a hand drill?
Pro Tip: Don’t attempt to use a mortising bit in a handheld power drill. We’ve tried it…and it doesn’t work. If you attempt to use a mortising bit in your drill press, you’re going to need to retrofit your machine quite a bit.
Can you get a square drill bit?
You can purchase square drill bits sold in sets for those machines. The bits are generally made from steel, and should be able to create clean holes without much effort on your part. Some are better suited for different kinds of cuts, and may need to be lubricated before use.