Auger bit?

[torpedo]

I will be attempting my first build from a halfstock blank. My question is... what is the best type bit to drill the ramrod hole.

 

[brushyspoons]

I like the ramrod drills that Muzzleloader Builder Supply sells

 

[Phil Coffins]

Gun drill.
IMG_0502 by Oliver Sudden, on Flickr

 

[rafterob]

If you do not already have the blank, Order it with the ramrod hole drilled and barrel channel cut. Will save a lot of time on your part.

 

[Larry (Omaha)]

I will be attempting my first build from a halfstock blank. My question is... what is the best type bit to drill the ramrod hole.

I like a regular metal cutting twist drill bit extended. Local hardware for the bit and a length of cold rolled steel the same diamer. Weld together and the cost is minimal. Don't have a welder? My first blank build, I just purchased a cold rolled rod and then filed a spade bit on the end. It worked just fine as long as you continually blow out the shavings. If the shavings build up, then the bit can wander.
Larry

 

[torpedo]

If you do not already have the blank, Order it with the ramrod hole drilled and barrel channel cut. Will save a lot of time on your part.

Not an option, as I am building a sxs shotgun.

 

[Phil Coffins]

Not an option, as I am building a sxs shotgun.

In that case you don’t need a drill, a gouge will work.

 

[PEARL DRUMS]

I bought the drill from MBS. Love the company and hate the drill. I wasn't impressed at all. I had to push way harder than I wanted to just get a curl made. It wobbled so the deeper I got the more it wanted to bind on the shank. I sprayed it with CLP to help with friction. I got the job done. But, don't plan on using it again as-is because it sucked. The point angle is way too sharp for a wood drill. I plan to bring it to work and knock it down by 15 degrees and try it on some scrap. I have spent a lifetime drilling holes in metal, wood and concrete. I am fully aware of speeds, feeds, pecking and pressure. I say that because somebody will come along and tell me I don't know how to use a drill.

 

[torpedo]

In that case you don’t need a drill, a gouge will work.

I was considering doing it that way, and now I believe your right. This will be a first time attempt. I will use my stock as a template. Thanks Phil.