Quote Originally Posted by wazkelly View Post
Hi buddy, how about using a sacrificial cork sanding block cut down to fit the shape in the middle of your headstock so that when drilling the bit can go through into something to prevent tearing out?

I know it is really slow and painful but another way is to just run your power drill in reverse and be patient. Pushing it in reverse just makes things hotter and could end up burning or scorching the timber. This is how I enlarge any holes on bodies to accommodate thicker diameter upgraded pot shafts.
Good idea, but I wonder if the cork would be too soft to prevent break away?
I like the idea of using the drill bit in reverse, I used that technique on my Carsenstein headstock, with the exception of one hole, which surprisingly tore out!!

Quote Originally Posted by Simon Barden View Post
Or just another bit of wood that you can use small clamps on either side of where the hole is going to provide something to drill into.

Or stop just as the tip of the drill is breaking through and use a small round file to enlarge the inside opening. A Brad point drill should also help to keep things clean.
I'm thinking this will be the best solution. I have some mini quick action clamps that would be a good fit, and not get in the way of the drill.