Quote Originally Posted by randpost View Post
Can anyone recommend a decent drill?
Drill "bit"?
Use the shortest drill you can find that will do the job, probably a screw machine length. A 135º split point will penetrate easier and require less thrust and reduces the tendency to "walk."

Stainless steel tends to work-harden as you cut it, so keep up a steady moderate pressure when drilling, otherwise the bottom of the hole hardens ahead of the drill and takes increased pressure to make the drill "bite;" this is where most cutting edge damage takes place, especially when you break through the bottom. A little bit of melted lard or bacon grease will help lubricate it but isn't essential.

If you get one of the Titanium Nitride coated ones it will work slightly better and last longer. These are the gold colored type. M-42 is the best alloy for heat resistance and good wear but costs more. Regular HSS will do for a few holes.

Check here if you need to order:
McMaster-Carr


I was a machinist for 20 years and still order cutting tools for other machinists.