What Phat said is true. I too have been in the metal machine trade since I was 16. What I have seen is that folks that have not been around any metal cutting machines will run a drill way too fast with no lubrication. Most drill presses and hand drill motors will turn too fast, even with a good quality bit. The over seas cutting tools are OK for wood, but not for metal.

So here is my suggestion for a Allen bolt. Like Phis said, Carbide will get it done, slow rpm, lube and a lot of feed pressure.

Don

Last edited by 2-Ton; 06/03/2025 1:22 AM.
1967 GMC 9500 Fire Ladder Truck
"The Flag Pole"
In the Stovebolt Gallery
1946 2-Ton grain truck
1946 3/4-ton pickup,
1953 1-ton pickup
1957 1-ton flatbed dually,
1954 Pontiac Straight Eight
Of all the things I've lost in my life, I miss my mind the most!