Internal footing question???

[Mike Vines]

When using the internal footing jig, is it best to drill the hole then taper the end, or is it prefered to do your point taper then drill your hole?

Reason I'm asking is that I just made up a dozen arrows to donate to the Michigan Longbow Association's winter banquet, and I'm so pleased with the results that I am going to make another dozen of the exact same design except I'm going to add the internal footing for my own set, and I'm hoping I can drill the hole after, so I can get going on them and not wait till I buy the jig at the Kzoo show.

[steadman]

I've done it after no problem. I actually like it, the taper sits in the hole and lines it up a bit. Just me though.

[Pepper]

I don't have a clue, but will keep an eye out for your update after you try it.

[Fletcher]

I prefer to drill my hole before I taper, but I use a different method to drill.

[lpcjon2]

I just tried doing it and drill first and then taper was the best method I found.And I did drill cock-eyed a few times when i tried it on a tapered end.JMHO

[Mike Vines]

How do you put the taper on your shafts?  I use the woodchuck, so would the brass stop on the woodchuck go inside the hole you drill in essence making the taper longer than you desire?

[SlowBowinMO]

Actually, yes and no!    

You can absolutely drill it after you taper, and due to the interior design of the footing jig you may even get better alignment by doing so but...if you're not careful you can damage the very end of your taper.  If you let the drill and bit do the work and don't use too much pressure that shouldn't be a problem.  Too much pressure can cause chips or cracks on a point tapered shaft.

[Mike Vines]

Straight from the supplier.  Thank you very much.

[J-dog]

Nebermind!LOL

[lpcjon2]

If you chuck the drill bit long you can taper after and the taper will not reach the end of the nail (1/4'from end of taper).

[dnovo]

I've done it both ways and don't see any difference. No problem either way.