Teensie-Weensie little position markers

[Wrnchbndr]

What do you folks recommend for drilling tiny little position marker holes?

I'm having a problem of tear-out when I drill holes for position markers in the upper fret positions of a slotted fretboard. I do okay repairing the damage but I'd like to avoid the problem.

[Marty Jacobson]

Elevate makes two tools that would be handy, I haven't used them and NFI.
You could make a version of the hole drilling jig, and then use a solid carbide downcut endmill in the jig for perfectly clean cuts.

https://elevatelutherie.com/product/dot-doctor/
https://elevatelutherie.com/product/dot-driller/

[Richard500]

Endmills and similar centerless bits will walk unless you are set up in a rigid machine, like a small mill, but will make a clean hole. Plain twist drills (59 degree) will stay centered, but will splinter. One technique in any type of wood drilling is to clamp a sacrificial piece tightly against the work, or even clamp a jig, meaning some piece of metal with the same size hole in it. Depending on the wood, even a piece of masking tape could be enough. There are also tiny mills for Dremel tools with 1/8 shank, but again, setup has to be very tight.
However, I have no luthier experience, so get other replies.

[MikeEdgerton]

Are you currently using brad point drill bits?

[Steve Hinde]

Brad point bits.

[pops1]

I have never had a problem using twist drill bits, but then I never use electricity either.

[Skip Kelley]

I never have a problem with brad point bits like others have mentioned.