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Author Topic: Drilling an oval thumbhole  (Read 1394 times)

leftyinsnellville

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Drilling an oval thumbhole
« on: May 21, 2009, 09:13:32 PM »
Currently I'm drilling my thumbholes round and them using hand tools to get them somewhat oval.  As I'm doing them by hand this results in variances between different thumbholes.

Is there a way to oval thumbholes using my press and normal bits?  Or is there a special bit available for ovaling out thumbholes?
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Goof1073

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Re: Drilling an oval thumbhole
« Reply #1 on: May 22, 2009, 07:21:52 AM »
It is possible to an oval thumb into a ball utilizing spade bits (angled ends)...the only issue is the bit will want to walk / travel on you so you will have to take the cut in small increments and go SLOWLY!!!  

There are other bits (end mills) that are GREAT for making ovals as you can make the entire cut at once and the bit won't walk on you.  We have a small assortment of them at our shop for making ovals.
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-Chris: DJ's Pro Shop : Auburn, MA
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bluerrpilot

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Re: Drilling an oval thumbhole
« Reply #2 on: May 22, 2009, 09:14:31 AM »
End mills are the best option. But if you have a good press and sharp bits, then that will work fine. But once the bits start dulling then they will walk.
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"USBC is concerned that technology has overtaken player skill in determining success in the sport of bowling"
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JohnP

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Re: Drilling an oval thumbhole
« Reply #3 on: May 22, 2009, 10:21:11 AM »
To do the job right you need a milling table and end mill bits.  Several companies make ovaled sleeves, I suggest trying these.  Then you just need to be sure to glue the sleeve in with the oval at the proper angle.  I would size the sleeve big enough to use tape in front and either tape or a Magic Carpet in back of the hole, then your thumb is not in contact with much of the vinyl sleeve.  --  JohnP
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