Well that stinks, yeah its a beast for sure, I went through about 1.5 batteries per hole, and drilled each hole in two to four "intervals". that is to say I would drill some and walk away. It is hard to hold all that pressure/stay bent over for the time it takes to get the hole drilled. It also allows time for the bit/metal to cool which is good. If you want to talk details of drilling I'm game/ask away. However if you want to leave it to your buddy make sure he has does this at a minimum. Drill a pilot hole 1/8 or bigger before attempting to use step bit. use oil and add oil often. super slow speed. LOTS of pressure. Good luck man!! its rough but can be done!