DIY Adjustable Drill Press Jig for Drilling Angled Holes
Drilling angled holes with a drill press is straightforward enough. But tilting the drill press table to the desired angle, then having to reset it square afterward, can be a hassle. That's especially true when a project requires several different drilling angles.
This shop-made adjustable drill press jig solves the problem. A hinged platform and sliding wedge let you change the angle of your workpiece while keeping the drill press table level.
It's a simple, practical accessory that makes angled drilling faster and more convenient.
How the Adjustable Drill Press Jig Works
The secret to this jig is a sliding wedge positioned between a flat base and a hinged top.
As you move the wedge along the base, it raises or lowers the top platform, changing the angle of the workpiece relative to the drill bit.
Once you've reached the desired angle, simply lock the wedge in place.
Since the drill press table itself never moves, there's no need to spend time resetting it square when you're finished.
Build the Hinged Drilling Platform
The jig consists of three main components: a base, an adjustable top, and a sliding wedge.
The top is connected to the base with a piano hinge, allowing it to pivot smoothly as the wedge moves underneath.
Make the top narrower than the base. This leaves room along the sides to reach the wedge and its adjustment hardware.
The base can be sized to fit your existing drill press table. In this example, the jig was designed for an auxiliary table equipped with T-track.
Flange bolts engage the T-track to secure the jig during drilling.
Adjust the Angle with a Sliding Wedge
Two slots in the base guide the wedge as it moves forward and backward.
Carriage bolts pass through the slots, while washers and star knobs secure the wedge in position.
To change the drilling angle, loosen the star knobs and slide the wedge until the hinged top reaches the angle you need.
Check the angle with a bevel gauge or digital angle finder, then tighten the knobs to lock the wedge securely.
The adjustable design makes it easy to switch between drilling angles without making changes to the drill press itself.
Tips for Drilling Angled Holes
For the best results, secure the jig firmly to the drill press table before drilling. Clamp the workpiece to the hinged platform so it can't shift or rotate.
It's also important to support the workpiece properly, especially when drilling at steeper angles.
Make sure the drill bit has adequate clearance through the workpiece and jig, and avoid drilling into the wedge or mounting hardware.
With everything secured, you can drill angled holes accurately while keeping the drill press table in its normal position.
A Handy Jig for Your Drill Press
This adjustable drilling jig is a great example of how a simple shop-made accessory can make a familiar tool more versatile.
The hinged top and sliding wedge provide a convenient way to set drilling angles, while the T-track mounting system keeps the jig securely attached to the table.
Best of all, when you're finished drilling angled holes, you can remove the jig and get right back to ordinary drilling without having to readjust your drill press table.
More Drill Press Tips & Techniques
Get more from one of the most versatile tools in your woodworking shop. From clever clamping solutions and shop-made jigs to adjustable fences, drilling techniques, and handy accessories, we've gathered some of our favorite drill press tips to make your work easier and more accurate. Discover practical ideas that help you improve precision, save time, and get better results from your drill press.
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