How to Mill 80 Lower with Drill Press: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

So, you’ve decided to take on the challenge of milling an 80% lower with a drill press. This can be a daunting task for anyone who is new to the world of firearms, but fear not! With the right tools and some guidance, you’ll soon be able to transform that lower into a functional masterpiece. In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of milling an 80% lower receiver using a drill press.

We’ll cover everything from preparing your workspace and choosing the right drill bit, to handling potential setbacks and troubleshooting common issues. By the end of it, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle this project with confidence. But why mill your own lower in the first place? For many firearm enthusiasts, building your own rifle from scratch offers a unique sense of satisfaction and control over the process.

Not to mention, it can be more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-made lower and gives you the opportunity to customize your gun exactly to your liking. Of course, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind throughout the milling process. As with any firearm-related activity, it’s crucial to maintain a high level of attention and caution.

But with the right approach and a strong focus on safety, milling your own 80% lower can be a rewarding and educational experience. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of lower milling with a drill press. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, this project is sure to challenge and excite you in equal measure.

Let’s get started!

What is an 80 Lower?

If you’re interested in firearms, you may have heard of the term “80 lower.” So, what exactly is an 80 lower? An 80 lower is an unfinished receiver for a firearm that is made of metal or polymer. It’s called an “80 lower” because it is only 80% complete, leaving the final 20% of the work to be done by the person who purchases it.

This means that the person can legally and personally finish the receiver, without the need for a background check or registration. One important thing to note is that while it may be legal to purchase an 80 lower, it is illegal to complete the receiver if you are prohibited from owning firearms. If you are legally able to own firearms and would like to complete an 80 lower, it is possible to do so with a drill press.

There are many guides and tutorials available online that will walk you through the process of how to mill 80 lower with drill press. By following these guides carefully and taking your time, you can successfully finish your 80 lower and have a firearm that you built yourself. Just remember to always prioritize safety and legality when working on firearms.

Defining an 80 Lower

An 80 Lower refers to a firearm frame or receiver that is only 80% complete, meaning that it has not been fully manufactured and is therefore not classified as a firearm by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). This badge of 80 Lower denotes a growing market for firearm enthusiasts who want to build their weapons from scratch while bypassing stringent federal regulations and background checks. It is a piece of metal or polymer that gets shaped into a firearm receiver by the end-user using specialized tools.

This DIY approach gives gun enthusiasts the ability to customize their weapons, improve their accuracy, and increase their overall performance as per their preferences. However, it is vital to note that once you complete an 80% lower receiver, it is now considered a firearm, and you must follow all ATF regulations. With the growing popularity in firearm enthusiasts worldwide, the 80 Lower market continues to grow, offering new designs, improved materials, and innovative ways to keep the regulatory bodies at bay.

Tools Needed

When it comes to milling an 80 lower with a drill press, there are a few basic tools you’ll need to get the job done right. First and foremost, you’ll require a quality drill press with an adjustable speed setting. This will ensure you have the necessary control and precision to mill the lower receiver correctly.

Additionally, you’ll need a sturdy vise to securely hold the 80 lower in place during the milling process. Other essential tools include drill bits, end mills, and a cutting oil or lubricant to prevent overheating and excessive wear. It’s recommended that you use high-quality, carbide-tipped end mills for the best results, and always double-check your measurements and alignment before beginning the milling process.

Overall, with the right tools and a little bit of patience, you can successfully mill an 80 lower with a drill press and create a high-quality, custom firearm.

List of Materials

When embarking on a new project, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. Depending on your project, you may require a wide range of tools, but some basics are essential for any project. A hammer, screwdrivers, a saw, a level, and a measuring tape are all must-haves for any DIY enthusiast or professional.

Other tools you may need include a drill, pliers, a wrench, and a utility knife. Power tools can make quick work of projects, but they can also be dangerous, so make sure you are familiar with their operation and safety features before attempting to use them. Having a solid set of tools on hand will help you complete your project efficiently and effectively, so take the time to make sure you have everything you need before you start.

Drill Press Set-Up

When it comes to setting up your drill press, there are a few tools that you’ll need to have on hand to make the process smooth and easy. First and foremost, you’ll need the drill press itself, along with any additional attachments or accessories that you plan on using. Additionally, you’ll need a variety of different drill bits in various sizes to accommodate different types of materials, as well as a sturdy work surface to mount your drill press on.

Other essential tools include clamps to hold your workpiece in place, a square to ensure accurate angles, and a depth stop to control the depth of your drilling. With these tools in hand, you’ll be able to set up your drill press quickly and efficiently, and get started on your next big project in no time!

Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to mill an 80 lower with a drill press, you’ll need to follow a few simple steps to ensure you get the best results. First, make sure you have the right tools for the job, including a drill press with a milling bit and a drill bit. You’ll also need some clamps to secure the lower in place and a vise to hold it steady.

Once you have everything you need, start by measuring and marking where you want to make your cuts. Use a center punch to mark where you’ll be drilling, as this will help guide the bit and ensure precision. Begin drilling slowly and steadily, using lubricant to prevent overheating and damage to your bit.

Once you’ve drilled the necessary holes, you can switch to the milling bit to begin cutting away excess material. Again, be sure to take things slowly and check your progress frequently to avoid mistakes. With some patience and attention to detail, you can successfully mill your own 80 lower with a drill press!

Prepping the Work Area

When it comes to prepping a work area, it’s important to follow a step-by-step process to ensure that the space is safe and ready for use. Firstly, decluttering the area is key to create a more efficient workspace. Removing any unnecessary items and organizing the essential tools and equipment will not only help you in finding things quickly but will keep you from getting tripped over things that are not needed.

Secondly, cleaning the area thoroughly is crucial to avoid potential hazards and create a space that is more conducive to work. Dust, dirt, and debris can be dangerous and cause accidents in the workplace. Thirdly, checking the lighting and ventilation of the area is important to avoid accidents such as falls and slips.

Poor lighting can affect the ability to see well and perform tasks appropriately, while inadequate ventilation can lead to health problems. Finally, marking the safe zones in the workspace is crucial to prevent accidents. The area where the work is performed must be separate from any storage areas or break rooms.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure a safe and productive work area for yourself or your employees.

Aligning the Lower Receiver

When assembling an AR-15 rifle, one of the crucial steps is aligning the lower receiver. This step ensures that the trigger pins, hammer pins, and selector pins all fit properly. To do this, you’ll need a vise block and a torque wrench.

First, insert the vise block in the magazine well, making sure it’s secure. Then, place the upper receiver on top. Next, attach the takedown pins and insert the trigger and hammer pins.

Using the torque wrench, tighten the screws to the manufacturer’s specifications. Once you’re done, check that the pins move freely and the safety selector engagement is smooth. Proper alignment of the lower receiver not only ensures a well-functioning rifle but also decreases the chances of any malfunctions or accidents.

So take your time and make sure to get this step right.

Drilling the Trigger Hole

Drilling the trigger hole is an essential step in building a firearm from scratch or installing a new trigger. It can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s an easy process. First, you’ll need to mark the center of the trigger guard where you want the hole to be and create a small indentation with a center punch.

Next, use a drill bit appropriate for your trigger pin size and drill through the trigger guard. It’s crucial to maintain a steady hand and keep the drill as straight as possible to avoid damaging the firearm. Once the hole is drilled, you can then install the trigger and test its function.

It’s essential to follow all necessary safety precautions, including wearing protective gear and ensuring your workspace is clear of any potential hazards. By carefully drilling the trigger hole, you can ensure a smooth and reliable performance from your firearm.

Drilling the Pin Holes

When drilling the pin holes, it’s important to take your time and be precise. First, choose the right drill bit size for your pin. You don’t want it to be too small or too big, or it won’t fit properly.

Next, mark the spot where you want to drill the hole with a permanent marker. This will help you position the drill bit correctly. Once you’ve got everything lined up, start drilling slowly, making sure to keep the drill bit perpendicular to the surface of the wood.

It’s important to use steady pressure and avoid jerky movements. As you drill, make sure to clean up any sawdust or debris that might get in the way. When you’ve drilled through the wood, pull the drill bit out gently and check the hole to make sure it’s the right size and shape.

Good practice is always to start drilling a small pilot hole and then enlarging it to the correct size. By following these steps, you’ll be able to drill accurate pin holes that will ensure your project turns out just the way you want it.

Post-Milling Finishing

If you’re looking to mill an 80 lower with a drill press, there are a few things to keep in mind for the post-milling finishing process. First, you’ll want to deburr and sand down any rough edges or sharp corners that were left behind from the milling process. This will help ensure a smooth and polished finish on your lower.

Next, you’ll want to clean and inspect the lower to make sure there are no leftover metal shavings or debris that could cause issues down the line. Finally, you may consider applying a Cerakote or other type of finish to protect the lower from wear and tear. With these steps, you can mill an 80 lower with a drill press and get great results.

Deburring and Sanding

Deburring and sanding are important processes that take place after milling to ensure the final product is smooth and free from any sharp edges or rough surfaces. Deburring is the process of removing small, unwanted pieces of material left on the edges of a product after milling, using specialized tools like chamfering tools, tumblers, or abrasive belts. Sanding, on the other hand, involves smoothing the surface of the product, using sandpapers and abrasive wheels, to give it a polished look.

Both processes are critical for improving the overall quality of the product and ensuring it meets the required specifications. An analogy that can be used to explain the importance of deburring and sanding is getting a haircut: just as a haircut is not complete until the hair is trimmed and styled, milling is not complete until deburring and sanding have been carried out.

Cleaning and Lubricating

Cleaning and lubricating your milled pieces is a crucial element to ensure the longevity and durability of your finished product. The process of cleaning and lubricating allows you to remove any dirt and debris left behind during the milling process. It also helps to protect your pieces from corrosion and rusting, which can lead to premature wear and tear.

Once the milling process is complete, it is recommended to use a mild detergent and water to wash your pieces. After washing, make sure to dry the pieces thoroughly to prevent any water damage. Once dry, you can apply a lubricant to the pieces to help reduce friction and lower the risk of damage.

A good lubricant can also help to protect the pieces from the elements and prevent any moisture from seeping in. Keeping your milled pieces clean and lubricated is an easy way to extend their lifespan and ensure that they continue to function at their best.

Final Thoughts

If you want to learn how to mill an 80 lower with a drill press, it’s important to take your time and follow the right steps. First, make sure you have a high-quality drill press with a vice to hold your lower securely in place. Next, use a drill bit to make pilot holes in the marked areas before slowly milling away material with an end mill bit.

Once you’ve finished, be sure to clean up any metal shavings and inspect your work to make sure everything looks good. It may take some practice to get the hang of it, but milling your own lower can be a rewarding experience that saves you money in the long run. Just remember to always prioritize safety and accuracy over speed.

Conclusion

All in all, milling your own 80 lower with a drill press is a challenging but rewarding endeavor that requires patience, precision, and attention to detail. Just like any other DIY project, it’s not for everyone, but it’s a great way to learn new skills and save some money. Armed with the right tools, knowledge, and mindset, you can turn a block of aluminum into a firearm receiver that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

So go ahead, seize the day, and start milling your way to a more self-reliant and empowered future!”

FAQs

What materials do I need to mill an 80 lower with a drill press?
You will need an 80 lower jig, drill press, vise, cutting oil, end mill bit, and safety glasses.

Can I use a regular drill bit instead of an end mill bit?
No, an end mill bit is specifically designed for milling metal and will provide better precision and results.

Do I need to use cutting oil when milling an 80 lower with a drill press?
Yes, using cutting oil will help lubricate the end mill bit and prevent it from overheating, which can lead to damaged tools and poor milling results.

What safety precautions should I take when milling an 80 lower?
Always wear safety glasses and follow the instructions on the jig carefully. Make sure the drill press is securely mounted and the vise is tightened properly.

Can I mill an 80 lower with a handheld drill?
No, a handheld drill will not provide the necessary stability and precision required for milling an 80 lower. A drill press is recommended.

How long does it take to mill an 80 lower with a drill press?
The time it takes to mill an 80 lower will vary depending on your experience and the complexity of the jig, but it can take anywhere from 1-3 hours.

Do I need to finish the 80 lower after milling?
Yes, you will need to finish the lower by sanding and coating it with your desired finish to protect it from rust and corrosion.