oversize hole in stock for pillar?

[Oelrichs]

I have a savage 12fv .204 and bought a Boyds thumbhole stock. I learned quickly it's not a simple drop in process. Anyway I've got it to the point that I'm ready to add pillars. I bought a set of 9/16' pillars from Stockys and the instructions suggest using a fostners 9/16' bit to drill out the stock. My question is what would be wrong with using a 5/8' fostners? My thinking is if I don't get the holes bored perfectly square to the receiver having the 1/16' of room would allow the pillars to set square and the bedding fills the space?

 

[alf]

I use a 5/8ths.

Try and find a reasonably priced 9/16ths.

 

[Oelrichs]

I'm going to pick up a 9/16 today at woodworkers...they have them for around $5. I have everything set up on my drill press ready to go then I realized my bit set doesn't have a 9/16. I was thinking though that using a 5/8' and having some play in the hole would ensure the pillars seated properly without adding any stress?

edit. went to Brownells website and found this:
Open up the hole 1/16” larger in diameter than the pillar so the pillar will slide in without any interference. This is essential for a stress-free installation.

 

[Preacher]

All I use is a 5/8 cutter, end mill actually.....
Like you said it gives you a little wiggle room to keep stuff square.
A 9/16th hole and a 9/16th pillar will be tough to keep epoxy where it needs to be even with the grooves helping...

 

[Oelrichs]

Thanks for the confirmation. This is my first attempt at doing anything like this and I've spent enough money on 'pimping' this rifle I don't want to mess it up.....would of had a gunsmith do it but they want over $250 around Houston...at least the ones who I contacted, which is more than I paid for the stock. It doesn't seem complicated just need to pay attention to minor details. I'm only going to bed the pillars then shoot it and if everything is good leave it alone. If I think I could get better results I may come back and glass it.

 

[Preacher]

Usually it's a good idea to do it all at once, screw the pillars down tight to the receiver glass up all the voids and drop it in place and cinch er down a little, I use stretch tubing for that part. Just enough to keep it all in place, not wrench jerking tight.
I also tape off the barrel at the end of the stock so that is also centered, and where it belongs..... Go slow, so that you have it all under control and have right at it...
A little while after you have it all set up, use Q-tips and alcohol for the clean up...
I also tape up my stocks before hand so none of that stuff gets on the finish......