Reply To: Countersink Bits
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What Larry said was on point.
I first used a hand countersink bit. They comes in sizes, and the major online vendors will have a set or two.
Then I found bits that fit in braces. The positive points cited here are real. They also come in sizes. but they are usually found on eBay, so diligent shopping is called for.
Countersink bits also were made for push drills/screwdrivers. The chucks for these are of different types and sizes: I use a Millers Falls driver, with the “30” code. If the bit has a “30” on it somewhere, on on the case or envelope, it will fit. Adapters are also available used.
The handy bits are the ones that have a hex base for a hex holder in the driver. Highly interchangeable, including for the most modern screw types.
Countersink bits come with different numbers of flutes in the bit, from one to many. Obviously more will give you a smoother cut. For depth, the hand bit and brace bits lend themselves to counting the number of turns, but I go slowly in finer work by measuring the cross section of the hole at the surface. Sometimes it’s most accurate by simply stopping and holding the head of the screw to the surface cut in the wood. Just remember it’s easier to take out more wood than put wood back in the place from which it was cut. 😉
Have fun. They make great collector items, and the all metal stanley line is available new, as at Garrett Wade, but that comes with a price and less hunting.