drilling out lube grooves in Lee mold

[Black Jaque Janaviac]

I have a 2-cavity 356-125-2R mold from Lee that is "extra" because I purchased the same boolit in 6-cavity.

So before I toss it in the recycle bin, I thought I might try drilling out the lube groove. I think a 23/64" bit should get me close. Or do I need a totally different bit size?

[country gent]

Measure the base band and subtract .002 buy a decimal reamer and use it. this will leave .001 on a side of the groove showing and then can be lapped to size later if needed. This will give a better finish than the drill will.

I would do this I a drill press ( prefer a mill or lathe) indicate in to spindle and have everything locked in tight. Chuck reamer in chuck and loosen belts or in neutral. Set stops short of finish so it can be eased up to. Use a pin in the key holes and turn the chuck by hand with plenty of cutting oil. this runs the reamer slow and holds it square and true.