Pipe Making: Difference between revisions

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Many pipes makers are using a 5/16" mortise, but will vary this according to the design of the pipe. The types of bit used vary depending on the technique employed and if the mortise is drilled before or after the draught hole. Options include:
Many pipes makers are using a 5/16" mortise, but will vary this according to the design of the pipe. The types of bit used vary depending on the technique employed and if the mortise is drilled before or after the draught hole. Options include:


#Spur tip wood bits. These work best when the mortise is drilled before the draught hole, or have fresh wood to center the spus, otherwise they can be pulled off course. In fresh wood, they track very well and produce a relatively flat hole (with a point at the bottom from the spur), the flatness facilitates a precise fit with the stem tenon, while the spur point in the center of the hole can also provide an excellent start for centering the bit used to drill the draught hole.
#Spur tip wood bits. These work best when the mortise is drilled before the draught hole, or have fresh wood to center the spur, otherwise they can be pulled off course. In fresh wood, they track very well and produce a relatively flat hole (with a point at the bottom from the spur), the flatness facilitates a precise fit with the stem tenon, while the spur point in the center of the hole can also provide an excellent start for centering the bit used to drill the draught hole.
#Standard Silver&Deming bits work great too, especially if you're following a previously drilled draught hole. The main drawback is that the end of your tenon will need to be tapered to match the bottom of the mortise.
#Standard Silver&Deming bits work great too, especially if you're following a previously drilled draught hole. The main drawback is that the end of your tenon will need to be tapered to match the bottom of the mortise.
#Forstner bits are an excellent choice. They leave a nice flat hole with clean sides. They're accurate and will not tend to follow grain or a previously drilled hole.
#Forstner bits are an excellent choice. They leave a nice flat hole with clean sides. They're accurate and will not tend to follow grain or a previously drilled hole.