Can I drill v-blocks?

[wawoodman]

Yeah, I could just go downstairs and try...

I need to make a low-profile clamp strap, so I can mill a goove into a piece of round stock. I've seen a number of v-blocks that are bored and tapped, so you can bolt down a bar.

I've also seen a pretty clever ”C" that's shaped to slide into the clamp slots, which is then tapped for your hold down. But that adds to the width of the setup.

If I can't bore my v-blocks, should I buy a cast iron block? I assume that wouldn't be hardened. Yes?

[Vinny]

I've milled plenty of grooves, keyways, etc. in round stock and never used a v-block. Just put it in the vise and tightened it real good.

[Highpower]

Just set your round stock into one of the table slots. Use multiple clamps to hold it down and just remove / reinstall them as needed to complete cutting your groove as you progress.

[rleete]

Chinese made V-block and a carbide bit, maybe. Starrett or other quality V-block? Not likely.

Looks like you found your way around the problem already anyway.

[PixMan]

Sometimes it's a little too fragile, too short, too small to just clamp in a vise, so I have been known to add a third clamping line by laying the v-block down in the vise to grip it between the V and the solid jaw of the vise. I don't do it with my best No.578 Starrett blocks, but the beat up older ones I've got off eBay, yes.

Also take a look at the way the Starrett No.568 V-blocks are made. The mating clamp engages via cutouts in the grooved sides. I don't mind using the pair that I have to mill smaller keyways or drill cross holes.

http://www.starrett.com/metrology/produc...Tools/568C