Mainline drilling tool?

[stewardsdairy]

Is it worth the cost, or should I just continue with the hand held electric? I have to install a couple of hundred saddles this year and probably at least that many each of the next two years. I will be running high vacuum on these lines.

[maplwrks]

With that many saddles you better buy one. All it takes is 1 or 2 errant holes and your entire system can be compromised. I've never been sorry for buying mine.

[markct]

Never used the special tool but never had a problem with a bit with a stop in the drill. The key is a sharp split point bit so it doesnt walk on the pipe

[adk1]

yeah, a couple hundred holes it might be worth it. If you are running vac and are worried about maybe making an error in your line in hole location. Otherwise, I bought the plunge type hole driller. Very inexpensive. Like $12 I think. works great

[morningstarfarm]

Either will work and I have used both...biggest difference...drill weighs about 2 lbs...hole tool weighs about 4 oz...I vote for the hole tool...

[Scribner's Mountain Maple]

I think the tool is worth the cost. If you have 200 holes to drill for 3 years, that's 600. How much is the tool. $100 +/-? That is less that 20 cents per use. It gives you peace of mind that you are making a perfect hole every time.
Ben

[sapman]

Bought the tool with the vice grip last week. Did two holes yesterday just to try it. Couldn't be happier. Just wish I'd gotten it 5 years ago!!

[maple flats]

I use a jig I made from a piece of 2x6. The 2x6 is cut with a ^ cut out on the bottom and a handle on the end. The ^ has a hole thru the center. Then I just hold the jig where I want to make a hole and use a cordless drill. The thickness of the jig top to bottom prevents the bit from going in too far. It is real quick and easy. It took me about 5 minutes to make and each hole only takes 2-3 seconds to drill. Never a bad hole, and with my organization it is easier to find than one of the "official hole drillers" would be. It works on any size tubing with no adjustment.

[325abn]

Can you post a pic of that jig?

[unc23win]

I have used a drill with the bit taped with electrical tape for a couple of years it works. This year I bought the tool and I really like it and I its worth it. some have had good luck making one. Like mentioned it is super light, I carry mine in my back pocket then just carry my bucket of saddles.

[maple flats]

I can, but it will be a few days. The jig is at my bigger bush, in my jet sled and I won't be up there for 3 or 4 days again, maybe even not until next Sat. I'll draw a simple sketch if you want, and I could email it to you.

[maplesyrupstove]

86838684 Without the jig my holes are not good. With the jig the holes are good and you can't go through the bottom of the pipe , which I have done. The two saw cuts are for the wire to go in so you don't drill through the main line wire. Works great for me. Darrell