Where are jobs produced in mass production drilling typically held?

• A. On the table
• B. In a vise
• C. In drilling fixtures and jigs
• D. In a handheld clamp

Answer: (C)

For high-volume, repeatable drilling, the work is held in drilling fixtures and guided by jigs. A fixture clamps and orients the part so every hole sits in the same coordinate system, while a jig provides a drill guide or sleeve that directs the drill along the exact path. This setup delivers quick, consistent setups, minimizes operator variability, and maintains tight tolerances across many parts. Placing the work on a table lacks a fixed reference and clamping, leading to movement. A vise can hold the part but doesn’t ensure the precise, repeatable location required for every hole on many pieces. A handheld clamp relies on the operator’s control and timing, which introduces too much variation for mass production. Hence, drilling fixtures and jigs are used to hold and guide the job.