Sensitive drilling platform

[metric_taper]

When I first set out to build it I decided to not key the table because I was concerned that keying might induce friction, or more properly, stiction, that would interfere with the "feel" I was seeking. In retrospect I think I was overcautious; a pin riding in a groove on the table rod, well lubricated, probably wouldn't affect the feel unduly.

It's really not a requirement though. It's not that the drill is going to grab and rip your finger off if you're using it to restrain the table. Put one in and, if it turns out that you don't like it, simply remove the pin and you're back to the original design.

I miss T-nut. Somewhere in my computer files I still have his instructions for hand sharpening drills. I met Gunner at one of the Men, Metal, and Machines shows in Visalia. Let's just say he didn't quite live up to the persona he portrayed on RCM. Somewhere on the web I read a meticulously compiled list of all the self-contradictions Gunner posted over the years.

As the table is hand held, and I assume the drill press spindle is locked and then the table with work is moved under and the operator is 'floating' it under the spinning drill, having a non-keyed table may make alignment easier. It is clearly under operator control (or your back to a broken dill bit).

I to, captured Tee-Nut's drill sharpening procedure. I wish I had his experience, and writing talent. He mentioned how he broke a very large lathe bed, but I never saw that he told that story. That's one of many memories he left. I wonder how his widow is doing, as for a few years she would stop in on the anniversary of his passing.