Best way to drill .505" hole for antenna?
 

My plan right now is to use a step drill that goes up to 1/2" and just over-do it a bit, by hand.

Is there a better way?

13mm drill bit? (.512")

I have done this once before but I've forgotten how I did it.

I'd use the step to .5 and then file it to final size because those are the tools I have.

drill to 0.5" with step drill and take a couple thou off with the dogleg deburring tool, if you have one. Otherwise some abrasive cloth or file.

What Mike said.

Dave

Same here!

Maybe I'm just sloppy with the stepdrill, but I usually get some slight deformation when I use it.
I found the rotacut tool did a cleaner job because it has a center guide and little pressure is required. Then I use a deburr tool to go up slightly if needed.

Got it. THANKS.
 

I think the step drill plus a little finesse with a deburring tool sounds good and I do have one or two!

Thanks to all.

Upsizing
 

I have a tapered hand reamer that I use a lot for tasks like this.

Don Broussard
RV9 Rebuild in Progress
57 Pacer
A&P-IA-ATP

Rota cutters
 

I don't know why these cutters are not a more common tool amongst builders.
They cut a perfect hole in sheet metal. No distortion.

https://www.mrmtool.com/Hougen-11075...Kit_p_755.html

.5 step drill with #2 wobble