I use a lot of threaded inserts in the shop for building jigs. But driving them in straight can be a chore.

To help with the task, I use my drill press and a shop-made driver. First, cut the head off of a bolt. Then, thread two nuts on the bolt, followed by a washer and the threaded insert (see the inset photo below).

Now, chuck the bolt in your drill press. For this operation, you’re going to turn the chuck by hand, so leave the power off and clamp the workpiece in place. Using the handle on the drill press, lower the insert into the pilot hole while turning the chuck until the insert is fully seated.