Through Wire - Question from a novice

[Slipknot]

I think the thickness of the bit matters a lot when you are having wandering troubles and starting out perfectly in line will help tremendously. I have the best luck with a 5/32" bit. An 1/8" bit is good for shorter plugs but tends to wander on a longer plug. The beginning first 1/2" to 1" have to be dead nuts, everybody does it the way they are most comfortable with. I use a lathe and have no problem, I can also get by with a hand drill once the ends are started on the lathe.
the advice you got so far from others is what you need to know. Start with short bit , then go to a long one and see if that helps.

[Woodbuster]

Dont forget the importance of SHARP drill bits. A dull bit will wander for sure. Try not to keep them in a drawer rolling into one another.

[Bob Senior]

I've had almost no problems since I got a drill sharpener that's capable of splitting the point. Oh, and I drill them on the lathe, 50-50. I'm using maple for most plugs, some AYC for poppers. The maple is the most challenging for drilling.

FWIW, I drill the blank first. Then I center it around the hole cuz the hole is always off at least a little bit.

I found that the drill tends to try to wander less at about 1500 rpm compared with 500 rpm.

[justplugit]

All excellent methods and advice.
Every problem i've had was from getting antsy or forcing. Letting the drill do the work and taking your time will help.

[Sweetwater]

I'm using mostly maple and oak stock that a friend gets me from a furniture manufacturer. It's not the best wood, but it's cheap (i.e., free)

I wasn't able to get on the lathe this weekend, but will try the great advice out next weekend. Thanks to all for their comments!