I also use a forstner bit after a pilot hole. Make sure that the pilot hole is small enough to allow the forstner tip to be secure - if the pilot hole is too big, it will not anchor the bit.

I drill a hole about 3/8" larger than I need, fill it with epoxy/milled glass/colloidal silica, and then redrill the final hole smaller after the epoxy sets. If you do this early, you can round the edges of your final holes nicely, and lay a layer or two of glass over the epoxy edge when you put reinforcement over your stem. This process makes a very strong, well rounded, and well sealed hole.

Good luck,

Allan Edie

: Seems like a rather simple task, but i'm worried a bit about
: drilling the ends for the grab loops. I forsee the drill bit
: running across the slanted/curved surface of the hull. Anyone
: have words of wisdom on a technique?

: Thanks,
: Damian