Can a plunge router be used as a drill press?

[Javery]

I'm doing as little wood working at home and I need a drill press. I'm a CAG so of course I do not want to buy one. I was wondering if it was possible to use a plunge router as a drill press with the right bit attached. I was planning on buying a router anyway - I just want to know if it can double up as a drill press. I'd probably only be drilling an inch deep or so. Thanks!

[imamario02]

I don't see why not, if you have it positioned correctly as to hold down the router so it doesnt move... i mean a drill press can be had for like 50 bucks.... so its not to expensive. What kind of plunge router were you looking at getting? I work at the tool department in Sears so I know a little bit about tools and what not.

[abrannan]

Dangerous. Routers spin MUCH faster than drills. You're more likely to have something bad happen if you try this. There are press-like attachments for regular hand drills, you're better off with one of those. Believe it or not, each tool has it's own purpose, it's not jsut to get you to buy more tools. Routers are wuite versatile, but the speeds at which they spin can make things ugly fast.

[Javery]

I was looking at the Skil plunge router from Lowe's for $99...

I am going to be drilling 1 inch holes in some plywood...[/img]

[coffman]

I strongly recommend not using a plunge router for this purpose. The suggestion of using a drill press accessory for a hand drill is a very good alternative. It is definitely much safer. Sears should carry them. If not, check the Sears catalog or maybe Amazon.

[Backlash]

Can you just use a spade bit on a drill if you're just drilling holes in plywood?

[flizmo007]

I agree with using a drill with the proper attachment. Much safer, easier and you'll probably get better results than the router would give you.

[Javery]

Where can I find one of these attachments for my drill? Does anyone have a link?

[scsg75]

you could make a jig of sorts to make it easier. I've seen Norm on The New Yankee Workshop use a router to make small holes for shelf pegs to go into using a nifty jig he made.

[coffman]

www.sears.com

Type in 53032 in the search box. This shows a drill press stand for $39.99.

Type in 67173 in the search box. This shows a drill guide for $26.99.

[Javery]

Thanks - so once I get the proper drill bit I just use the drill guide to rill the hole perpendicularly to the board?

[bignick]

Dont listen to all these wussies. I say do it. Be a man. I reccomend getting a few friends together and a case of beer. After a few beers, you wont be suck a wuss.



BigNick is not responsable if you hurt yourself. You probably will. Atlest you will have some cool scars to show.

[coffman]

Thanks - so once I get the proper drill bit I just use the drill guide to rill the hole perpendicularly to the board?

Yes. You never really stated exactly what you wanted to do, so this is the best advice I can give.

[Javery]

I'm drilling 1-1/8" holes in some 3/4" plywood.