Use a benchtop drill press

A drill press holds the bit in a fixed vertical column and plunges it straight down with a lever. Clamp your workpiece to the table, align the bit over your mark, and pull the handle to drill a perfectly perpendicular hole every time.

Why It Works

The drill press eliminates all human alignment error. The bit is mechanically constrained to travel along a fixed vertical axis. The table can also be tilted for precise angled holes.

Tips

• Benchtop models cost $60-150 and handle most home workshop needs
• Floor-standing models ($200-500+) offer more power and throat depth for larger work
• Always clamp the workpiece — never hold it by hand, as the drill can catch and spin it dangerously
• If you only need one occasionally, some maker spaces and tool libraries offer drill press access