1317 Orange Street
N. Little Rock, AR 72114

7am - 4:30pm CST
Monday - Friday

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(501) 374-6972

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FAQs

Exceptional Full-Service Tooling Services

We've Got the Answers to Your Tooling Questions

Get answers to your questions by reviewing our list of frequently asked questions regarding our tooling services. If you still need help regarding your specific question, be sure to contact at at (501) 374-6972 or online.

Die Work

At Arkansas Tool and Die, we regularly work with premium tool steels like H-13 and 4140 for die casting tooling. We also have expertise with many other materials, including:

  • Stainless steels
  • Cast irons
  • Aluminum alloys
  • Titanium
  • Any other specialized metals, upon request

If you have a specific material in mind, let us know—we’ll discuss your application and recommend what’s best.

Lead times depend heavily on a few key factors:

  • Complexity of the die (number of cavities, tight tolerances, etc.)
  • Clarity and completeness of design and specifications
  • Current production workload
  • Customer’s required delivery date

For reference:

  • Simple or smaller dies: 8–10 weeks
  • More complex, larger dies: 14-16 weeks or more
  • In some cases, with all information in hand and lower complexity, we’ve completed projects in 4-6 weeks

We’ll always discuss realistic schedules with you so there are no surprises.

We believe close communication is essential. Here’s how we stay in touch:

  • We assign a project lead or engineer as your main point of contact
  • You can reach us via e-mail, phone (cell/office), or video calls—whichever works best for you
  • We share design reviews, progress updates, and any required modifications
  • For sampling, we’re present to help with setup, testing, and inspection

We aim to make sure you are fully involved throughout the process.

Yes. For new dies being sampled, we send a representative from Arkansas Tool and Die to your site to assist with setup, trial runs, and any initial trouble-shooting. Our goal is to get your die producing parts that meet specification as soon as possible.

If adjustments are needed after sampling, we work quickly to make those modifications.

Logistics are customized for each project. Factors include:

  • Size and weight of the die
  • Origin (our facility) and destination point
  • How fast you need delivery
  • Whether special handling or packaging is required

We’ll provide you with shipping/delivery options, cost estimates, and timelines early on, so you can choose what fits best.

We repair, refurbish, and retro-fit existing dies. This includes:

  • Restoring worn components
  • Re-servicing guide pins, slides, lifters, etc.
  • Strengthening or modifying parts to extend die life
  • Updating cooling features or venting
  • Re-hardening surfaces where necessary

If you send us the details — or even better, the die itself — we can provide an assessment and quotation for repair vs replacement.

Quality is built into every stage:

  • Design review and engineering checks
  • Use of precision machining and inspection equipment
  • In-process inspections to verify critical dimensions
  • Final part sampling and dimensional verification
  • Material certifications, heat treat records, etc., as required

If you have specific tolerance requirements or inspection protocols, please share them up front.

We serve a wide range of industries, including but not limited to:

  • Automotive & Transportation
  • Aerospace & Defense
  • Electronics
  • Appliance Manufacturing
  • Heavy Equipment
  • Custom / Prototype Tooling

If your industry has particular standards or certifications, we can accommodate those.

Pricing is based on:

  • Complexity of the die
  • Size, cavities, slides, and moving parts
  • Material selection
  • Heat-treating, surface treatments, coatings
  • Any special features (e.g. cooling, ejection, venting, inserts)
  • Volume of parts expected / production life

We provide detailed quotes to clarify what is included. If you have budget constraints, we’re happy to discuss options or stages to help you meet them.

To get started, we usually need:

  • 2D and/or 3D drawings (as complete as possible)
  • Material specifications
  • Expected production volume
  • Tolerance and surface finish requirements
  • Any special features (cooling, inserts, slides, etc.)
  • Delivery date expectations

You can submit your request via our website, email, or in person. From there, we’ll review everything, reach out with questions if needed, and provide a detailed proposal.

Yes. We can design and build prototype dies or tooling intended for short-run production. This allows you to test form, fit, function, and make design improvements before full-scale tooling investment.

If you have any other questions or want to discuss a project, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you succeed.

CNC Machining

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. It refers to machine tools that are controlled by pre-programmed computer software executing a sequence of machining operations, rather than by manual input alone.

CNC machining is a manufacturing process where computer software controls machine tools (mills, lathes, routers, etc.) to remove material from a workpiece, producing precise parts in 3D. It allows for complex shapes, tight tolerances, and repeatable precision.

“NC” stands for Numerical Control, which refers to older systems where machine instructions are fed via punched cards or similar physical media, and adjustments are more manual. “CNC” — Computer Numerical Control — uses digital programming input, more automation, and greater flexibility.

DNC stands for Direct Numerical Control (or sometimes Distributed Numerical Control). It’s a system where a central computer (or server) supplies programs to multiple CNC machines. It helps manage and distribute machining programs across several machines, rather than each machine being independently programmed.

CNC machinists are involved in the setup, programming, operation, and fine-tuning of CNC machines. Their duties include:

  • Reading and interpreting engineering drawings or CAD/CAM outputs
  • Selecting tooling and setting up fixtures
  • Adjusting feeds, speeds, and other machining parameters
  • Monitoring machining operations and making corrections as needed
  • Inspecting finished parts for dimensional accuracy and surface quality

Blanchard Grinding

Blanchard grinding (also called rotary surface grinding or vertical spindle surface grinding) is a process that uses a vertical grinding wheel and a rotating table (often a magnetic chuck) to remove material from one flat side of a workpiece. It’s very effective for flattening large surfaces or removing large amounts of stock quickly.

Here’s a basic rundown:

  • The part is placed on a rotating table (magnetic chuck if working with ferrous metals; non-magnetic fixturing otherwise).
  • A large grinding wheel mounted on a vertical spindle is brought down onto the stationary side of the part. The table rotates while the wheel spins, creating cross-hatch or swirl patterns on the ground surface.
  • The process can remove considerable material in each pass, depending on the wheel, feed, and how aggressively the operator uses the downfeed.

Some of the main advantages are:

  • High material removal rate — It can strip away large amounts of material quickly compared with many other flat grinding methods.
  • Handles large surface areas well — Large plates, castings, dies, etc. are more feasible because of the large table and wheel size.
  • Cost-effectiveness for big jobs — Because of efficiency, fewer passes, and powerful machinery, costs on large flat surfaces are often lower than with more precise (and slower) grinding methods.
  • Relatively good flatness for large surfaces — While not always “mirror finish,” the flatness is very good for many industrial purposes.

Blanchard grinding is excellent for many tasks, but it has certain limitations:

  • Surface finish is moderate — The characteristic cross-hatch or swirl finish has more texture (roughness) than precision surface grinding. It won’t achieve ultra-fine finishes.
  • Tolerances are more limited — While good, it usually can’t match the ultra tight tolerances of precision or mirror grinding. Typical tolerances are around ±0.001″ in many shops.
  • Workpiece must be flat and properly fixtured — Non-magnetic materials need mechanical or vacuum fixtures; magnetic chucking only works with ferrous metals. Fixturing complexity can add cost.
  • Thermal distortion risk — Because a lot of heat can be generated, there’s risk of warping or damaging heat-sensitive materials if cooling or feeds are not managed properly.

Typical expectations for a properly done Blanchard grind are:

  • Flatness tolerances on the order of ±0.001″ (≈ 0.025 mm) for many applications.
  • Surface finishes in the roughness range of ~60–65 RMS (or around 60–64 Ra) are common for standard Blanchard ground surfaces.

If tighter tolerances or smoother finishes are required, additional finishing (e.g. precision grinding or polishing) may be necessary.

Some general guidelines:

  • Ferrous metals (steel, cast iron) are the easiest when using magnetic chucks.
  • Non-ferrous metals (aluminum, copper, etc.) can be ground, but require special fixturing (because they aren’t magnetic), and there may be additional challenges (loading of the wheel, thermal issues).
  • Stainless steels: commonly ground, but need attention to avoid overheating and to choose appropriate wheel type and cooling.

There are some performance limits:

  • Ultra-fine finishes (e.g. mirror or near-mirror) are generally out of reach. If a spec demands very low Ra (say single digits, or very tight micron tolerances), Blanchard grinding alone likely won’t suffice.
  • Very tight dimensional tolerances (e.g. ±0.0001″ or tighter) are typically beyond what Blanchard grinding is reliably used for.

The cost depends on several factors:

  • Material type — harder or more abrasive-wasting metals cost more. Non-magnetic materials may require more fixture work.
  • Surface area / size of workpiece — larger areas take more time, wheel wear, and often require more setup.
  • Amount of stock to be removed — removing more material takes more passes, more wheel wear, increased cycle time.
  • Desired flatness, tolerances, and finish — tighter specs or finer finishes increase time, and might require additional processes or more careful setup.
  • Volume / batch size — doing many parts or large batches generally reduces per-part cost, since setup and fixturing costs are amortized.

Blanchard grinding is a good choice when:

  • You have large, flat surfaces (plates, castings, mold or die plates, machine bases, etc.) that need flattening or surfacing quickly.
  • You need to remove a significant amount of material from one side to clean up surfaces or correct warpage.
  • Tolerances and surface finish requirements are moderate (not extremely fine).
  • You want a cost-effective solution over large scale or heavy work.

If your part requires extremely fine finish, tight tolerances, or complex geometries, other methods (precision surface grinding, honing, etc.) may be more appropriate.

To help the shop give a good estimate, it’s helpful if you can supply:

  • Material type (including whether it’s ferrous or non-ferrous; any alloy or grade information)
  • Dimensions of the workpiece, especially the surface to be ground (length, width, thickness)
  • How much material needs to be removed (stock removal)
  • Flatness or tolerance requirements
  • Desired finish (if relevant)
  • Whether both sides are to be ground or just one side
  • Batch size or quantity, if more than one part

Surface Grinding

Surface grinding is a precision machining process that uses a rotating abrasive wheel to create a flat, smooth surface on metal or other materials. It’s commonly used to achieve tight tolerances, uniform finishes, and perfectly flat surfaces.

Surface grinding is ideal for:

  • Flat metal plates and sheets
  • Tooling components (dies, molds, punches, etc.)
  • Machine bases or spacers
  • Hardened steel or other heat-treated parts
  • Small to medium parts requiring tight tolerances

Most metals can be surface ground, including:

  • Tool steels
  • Carbon and alloy steels
  • Stainless steel
  • Cast iron
  • Aluminum, brass, and copper (with care to avoid wheel loading)
  • Certain plastics and ceramics with the right surface ground wheel selection

Surface grinding can achieve very tight tolerances, typically within ±0.0001″ (one-ten-thousandth of an inch) depending on the part and setup. This makes it an excellent choice for precision work.

Surface grinding produces a smooth, even finish. Depending on the wheel and parameters, finishes as fine as 8–16 microinch Ra are possible. This makes it suitable for both functional and aesthetic applications.

Surface grinding uses a horizontal spindle with a straight wheel to produce extremely flat, fine finishes with tight tolerances — best for smaller parts or where precision is critical.

Blanchard grinding (rotary surface grinding) uses a vertical spindle and is faster for removing large amounts of material from big parts, but with coarser finishes and less precision.

While precise, surface grinding has some limits:

  • It’s generally best for flat surfaces (not complex shapes)
  • Removal rates are slower compared to milling or Blanchard grinding
  • Workpiece size is limited by the grinder’s table capacity
  • Not ideal for very soft or gummy materials unless special wheels are used

Costs are usually based on:

  • Size and thickness of the part
  • Amount of material that needs to be removed
  • Tolerance and surface finish requirements
  • Quantity of parts (one-off vs. production run)

Providing these details upfront helps generate an accurate quote.

Surface grinding is the right choice when:

  • Your part requires extreme flatness or tight tolerances
  • You need a very smooth finish
  • Only a small amount of material needs to be removed
  • The part is smaller or medium-sized and fits comfortably on the grinder table

To get started, please share:

  • Part drawings or dimensions
  • Material type and hardness
  • Stock removal required (if known)
  • Tolerance and finish requirements
  • Quantity of parts
  • Delivery timeframe

Custom Fabrication

Metal fabrication is the process of cutting, bending, welding, and assembling raw metal into finished parts or structures. It’s how custom components like brackets, enclosures, frames, and large assemblies are built for industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

Typical fabrication services include:

  • Cutting (laser, plasma, waterjet, or saw cutting)
  • Forming and bending (press brake, rolling)
  • Welding (MIG, TIG, spot, robotic welding)
  • Machining (drilling, tapping, milling, turning)
  • Assembly of finished products
  • Surface finishing (powder coating, painting, plating, polishing)

We work with a wide range of metals, including:

  • Carbon steel
  • Stainless steel
  • Aluminum
  • Brass and copper
  • Specialty alloys (by request)

Material selection depends on strength, corrosion resistance, appearance, and cost for your specific application.

We do both. Whether you need a single prototype, a small batch of parts, or high-volume production, we can tailor the process to your needs.

Fabricated components are used in many industries, including:

  • Construction and structural steel
  • Automotive and transportation
  • Industrial machinery
  • Aerospace and defense
  • Agriculture
  • Consumer products

Tolerances depend on the process and material, but we can typically achieve precision within ±0.005″ to ±0.030″. For tighter tolerances, machining can be added after fabrication.

Yes. Our team can work with your drawings, CAD models, or even rough sketches to help optimize your design for manufacturability, strength, and cost efficiency.

Finishes depend on material and application. Options include:

  • Powder coating
  • Wet paint
  • Galvanizing
  • Anodizing (for aluminum)
  • Polishing or brushing
  • Plating (zinc, chrome, nickel)

Lead time depends on part complexity, material availability, and order size. Simple jobs may be completed in a few days, while larger projects could take several weeks. We’ll provide an estimated schedule with each quote.

To provide an accurate estimate, we’ll need:

  • A drawing or CAD file (if available)
  • Material type and thickness
  • Quantity of parts
  • Tolerance and finish requirements
  • Delivery timeframe

Yes. We’re equipped for both small precision parts and larger assemblies, including structural steel components, heavy frames, and industrial equipment parts.

Design and Engineering

Our design and engineering services cover everything from concept development to final production drawings. This includes:

  • 2D drawings and 3D CAD modeling
  • Design for manufacturability (DFM) reviews
  • Material and process selection
  • Prototyping support
  • Engineering analysis and problem-solving
  • Revision and optimization of existing designs

Absolutely. Many projects start with just an idea or a rough sketch. Our engineers can translate your concept into a detailed design, then refine it into a manufacturable solution that meets your needs.

We work with industry-standard CAD and CAM software (such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar platforms), ensuring accurate models, compatibility with most manufacturers, and seamless transition into fabrication or machining.

We serve a wide range of industries, including:

  • Manufacturing and industrial equipment
  • Automotive and transportation
  • Aerospace and defense
  • Consumer products
  • Medical and healthcare devices
  • Construction and architecture support

Yes. If you have an existing part that needs cost reduction, performance improvements, or a design update, we can analyze it and provide optimized solutions without compromising quality or strength.

We can provide design files for prototyping or work with you to produce physical prototypes. Prototyping allows us to test fit, function, and durability before full production.

Our engineers focus on Design for Manufacturability (DFM), which means we consider available processes, materials, and tolerances early in the design stage. This reduces production issues, saves costs, and shortens lead times.

Your ideas are treated with complete confidentiality. We can provide a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before reviewing your project to ensure your intellectual property is protected.

To begin, it’s helpful if you can provide:

  • Any sketches, drawings, or CAD files (if available)
  • A description of the part or product’s intended use
  • Material or strength requirements
  • Expected production volume
  • Timeline or project deadlines

Timelines vary depending on complexity. A simple part design may take just a few days, while a complex assembly or product could take several weeks. We’ll provide an estimated schedule once we understand your project’s scope.

Special Purpose Machines

A Special Purpose Machine is a custom-designed piece of equipment built for a specific task or process. Unlike standard “off-the-shelf” machines, SPMs are engineered to handle unique requirements such as high production rates, unusual part geometries, or specialized operations that standard machines cannot efficiently perform.

You might need an SPM if your operation requires:

  • High-volume production with faster cycle times
  • Improved accuracy and consistency compared to manual methods
  • Automation of repetitive tasks
  • Integration of multiple operations into one machine
  • Reduced labor costs and improved workplace safety

SPMs are particularly useful when existing equipment can’t deliver the efficiency, precision, or throughput you need.

SPMs are widely used across industries, including:

  • Automotive and auto components
  • Aerospace and defense
  • Electronics and consumer goods
  • Medical device manufacturing
  • Heavy machinery and industrial equipment
  • Packaging and assembly lines

The process typically includes:

  • Requirement analysis — Understanding your production challenges and goals
  • Concept development — Proposing machine concepts that meet your requirements
  • 3D design & engineering — Creating detailed CAD models and simulations
  • Prototyping or pilot machine (if needed)
  • Manufacturing & assembly of the machine
  • Testing, installation, and operator training at your facility

Yes. Our machines are designed to fit into your current workflow. We can integrate SPMs with conveyors, robotics, automation systems, or other equipment for a seamless production process.

Key advantages include:

  • Higher productivity and reduced cycle time
  • Greater accuracy and repeatability
  • Customized automation for your process
  • Lower long-term operating costs
  • Competitive advantage in efficiency and output

While SPMs are designed for specific tasks, we often build in flexibility where possible—for example, by allowing for part changeovers, modular tooling, or software reprogramming. We’ll discuss your long-term needs during the design stage to ensure the right level of adaptability.

Timelines vary based on complexity. A simpler machine may take 3–4 months, while larger, more complex systems may require 6–12 months from concept to installation. We’ll provide a project schedule at the proposal stage.

To design the right solution, we’ll need details such as:

  • The part or process you want automated
  • Desired cycle time or production rate
  • Quality and accuracy requirements
  • Available space on your shop floor
  • Any safety or compliance standards that must be met

Yes. We provide complete after-sales support, including installation, operator training, maintenance guidance, and troubleshooting. We can also supply spare parts and upgrades if needed.

Wire EDM

Wire EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) is a precision machining process that uses a thin electrically charged wire to cut conductive materials. Instead of using mechanical force, it removes material with controlled sparks, allowing for extremely accurate and intricate shapes.

Wire EDM can cut any electrically conductive material, regardless of hardness. Common examples include:

  • Tool steel
  • Stainless steel
  • Aluminum
  • Titanium
  • Carbides
  • Exotic alloys (Inconel, Hastelloy, etc.)
  • Copper and brass

Wire EDM is one of the most precise machining methods available. Tolerances can typically reach ±0.0001 inch (±0.0025 mm), making it ideal for complex, tight-tolerance components.

Wire EDM offers:

  • Exceptional accuracy and repeatability
  • Ability to cut very hard materials
  • Capability for complex shapes, fine details, and sharp corners
  • Stress-free machining (no cutting forces applied)
  • Smooth surface finishes, reducing secondary finishing needs

Wire EDM is commonly used in:

  • Tool and die making
  • Aerospace and defense
  • Medical device manufacturing
  • Automotive
  • Electronics and semiconductors
  • Precision component manufacturing

Wire EDM can cut materials up to 12–15 inches thick, depending on the machine and setup. Thinner materials can also be stacked and cut simultaneously for efficiency.

Yes. Since it requires conductivity, Wire EDM cannot cut plastics, glass, or ceramics (unless specially coated). It also tends to be slower than conventional machining methods, making it best suited for precision parts rather than high-volume rough cutting.

Wire EDM can achieve very smooth finishes, often eliminating the need for additional polishing. Depending on the number of skim passes, finishes can range from functional to near mirror-like.

Yes. With multi-axis control, Wire EDM machines can cut tapers, angles, and complex contours with precision. This makes it ideal for dies, molds, and intricate components.

Simply provide us with your part drawings (2D or 3D CAD files), material requirements, tolerances, and quantities. Our team will review your design, suggest optimizations if needed, and provide a quote and timeline.

Sinker EDM

Sinker EDM, also called Ram EDM or Plunge EDM, is a precision machining process that uses an electrically-charged electrode (shaped like the desired cavity) to erode material from a conductive workpiece. Unlike Wire EDM, which cuts completely through a part, Sinker EDM is used to create complex cavities, shapes, and details inside the material.

Any electrically-conductive material can be machined with Sinker EDM, including:

  • Tool steel and hardened steels
  • Carbides
  • Titanium
  • Aluminum
  • Copper alloys
  • Exotic alloys (Inconel, Hastelloy, etc.)

Sinker EDM is widely used for:

  • Mold cavities (plastic injection, die casting, etc.)
  • Complex dies and tooling
  • Sharp inside corners or intricate features that milling cannot achieve
  • Fine details, textures, or engraving
  • Deep or difficult-to-machine cavities

Sinker EDM can achieve tolerances of ±0.0002 inch (±0.005 mm) or better, depending on the part geometry and surface finish requirements. It’s ideal when both precision and complex geometry are critical.

Sinker EDM offers a wide range of surface finishes, from roughing cuts to near mirror finishes (as fine as Ra 0.1 μm). This flexibility makes it useful for both functional parts and cosmetic mold surfaces.

The main differences are:

  • Wire EDM uses a thin wire to cut all the way through a part, creating profiles and contours.
  • Sinker EDM uses a custom-shaped electrode to erode cavities or internal shapes that do not pass through the part.

Both methods are precise, but they serve different applications.

Industries that require intricate tooling and complex parts benefit most, including:

  • Aerospace and defense
  • Automotive
  • Medical device manufacturing
  • Electronics
  • Tool and die making
  • Consumer products and packaging molds

Some considerations include:

  • Slower material removal compared to conventional machining
  • Requires a custom electrode (which adds to setup time and cost)
  • Can only be used on electrically conductive materials

No. Our engineers can design and manufacture the required electrodes based on your part drawings or CAD files. We ensure the electrode shape precisely matches your specifications.

Simply provide us with your part drawings (2D/3D CAD files), material requirements, tolerances, and production quantities. We’ll evaluate your project, determine the best approach, and provide a detailed quote and timeline.

Jig Bore

Jig boring is a precision machining process used to drill, bore, or mill holes and features with extremely high accuracy. It is designed to create precise hole locations and sizes on workpieces, often for tooling, dies, and precision assemblies.

Unlike standard drilling or milling:

  • Jig boring ensures exceptional positional accuracy (often ±0.0001″).
  • It is ideal for creating multiple holes or features that must align perfectly.
  • Standard machines cannot consistently achieve this level of precision, especially on large workpieces.

Jig boring can be performed on most metals, including:

  • Tool steels and hardened steels
  • Stainless steel
  • Aluminum and brass
  • Cast iron
  • Exotic alloys (like titanium or Inconel)

Jig boring is commonly used for:

  • Precision dies and molds
  • Aerospace and defense components
  • Automotive tooling
  • Fixtures requiring exact hole placement
  • Any application where multiple holes or features must align perfectly

Jig boring machines typically achieve tolerances of ±0.0001″ (0.0025 mm) or better, making them one of the most precise methods for positioning holes and features.

Yes. While it is primarily used for holes, jig boring machines can also produce keyways, slots, and flat surfaces with the same high level of accuracy.

Jig boring can handle both small and very large parts. The main limitations are the machine’s table size, travel, and workpiece weight. Proper fixturing ensures precision even on large or complex components.

Jig boring is the preferred choice when:

  • Hole placement accuracy is critical
  • Tight tolerances are required across multiple features
  • Large, flat workpieces need precise alignment
  • Conventional milling or drilling cannot meet required precision

To get started, provide:

  • Part drawings or CAD files
  • Material specifications
  • Hole sizes, tolerances, and spacing
  • Quantity of parts
  • Any surface finish or alignment requirements

We’ll review your project and provide a detailed quote and schedule.

Yes. Proper fixturing is critical for achieving high precision in jig boring. We design or supply fixtures tailored to your parts, ensuring repeatable, accurate results every time.

Gun Drilling

Gun drilling is a precision deep-hole drilling process used to create long, straight, and accurately sized holes in metal workpieces. Unlike standard drilling, it uses a specialized single-lip drill with internal coolant flow, allowing holes with depth-to-diameter ratios of 50:1 or more.

Gun drilling works with most metals, including:

  • Tool steels and hardened steels
  • Stainless steel
  • Aluminum
  • Titanium and exotic alloys
  • Copper, brass, and other conductive metals

Gun drilling is commonly used in:

  • Firearms and weapons manufacturing
  • Aerospace and defense
  • Automotive and engine components
  • Medical devices (surgical instruments, implants)
  • Oil and gas equipment

Gun drilling offers highly precise holes, typically with tolerances of ±0.0002″ (0.005 mm) or better, depending on the material and part geometry. Straightness and concentricity are tightly controlled, even for very deep holes.

Gun drilling can achieve very deep holes relative to their diameter. Typical depth-to-diameter ratios range from 10:1 up to 100:1, depending on the material, hole diameter, and setup.

Gun drilling is typically used for holes ranging from 0.04″ to 2″ (1 mm to 50 mm) in diameter, though special setups can handle larger sizes.

Key advantages include:

  • Exceptional straightness and accuracy
  • Ability to drill deep holes with minimal deviation
  • Smooth, high-quality surface finish inside the hole
  • Reduced risk of heat damage thanks to internal coolant flow
  • High repeatability for production runs

Conventional drilling often struggles with long or deep holes, leading to drift, heat buildup, or breakage. Gun drilling:

  • Uses a single-lip drill with internal coolant flow
  • Maintains precise alignment for long, straight holes
  • Produces smooth finishes without secondary reaming in many cases

Yes. We can gun drill small, intricate parts as well as larger workpieces. We can also handle blind holes, through holes, and precision assemblies where alignment is critical.

To provide an accurate quote, please provide:

  • Part drawings or CAD files
  • Material type and hardness
  • Hole diameter, depth, and tolerance requirements
  • Quantity of parts
  • Any surface finish or special specifications

In most cases, gun drilling produces a high-quality finish suitable for assembly. If extremely tight tolerances or ultra-smooth finishes are needed, secondary processes like honing or reaming can be applied.

Contact Us:

Company Address

1317 Orange Street
N. Little Rock, AR 72114

7am - 4:30pm CST
Monday - Friday

Call AR Tool & Die
(501) 374-6972

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