I have a Sears hand drill that is a two speed, geared job, amazing bit of analog
toolmaking. It is a very fine and effective tool, better than many of the electrics I have
had.
gw
>
> I do have an actual hand drill that belonged to my father. It has
> wooden handles and a crank on the side like an eggbeater. I use to
> drill PCB's, as it can't accidently skip and destroy traces.
>
> >>The paint won't chip, either. I make those holes smaller because
> >>individual users can always drill them bigger if they need to, but
> >>we can't drill them smaller : )
>
> Indeed :)
>
> >>Cool. I've never drilled through metal this thick before. Is it an
> >>easy process? Do I need to get any exotic tools to do this (ie can
> >>I use a hand drill or do I need a press)? What steps are you going
> >>to take to minimize the amount of paint chipping?
>
> You want a variable-spped power drill with a large-enough chuck to
> fit the bits you are using. When I had to drill a bunch of panels,
> including some tricky stuff like the LED holes for a MiniWave, I
> borrowed this massive professional drill press from my next door
> neighbor. Which was much better than using a hand-held power drill,
> but not necessary if you only have to drill a few holes.
>
> Secure it from moving (you can use the mounting holes in the corners
> of the panel to screw it to a board), drill from front of the panel
> so that any damage to the paint is to the back side, and use a
> lubricant such as cutting and tapping spray.
>
> http://www.hotrodmotm.com/drill_howto.htm
>