Hi from a Solidworks novice - hope someone can help.

I'm creating a machine tool manual for our operators and need to provide drawings of CNC toolholders c/w tools and setting lengths (protrusions and gauge lengths). My tool library includes drills end mills taps etc, and I am trying to create the models which I can then assemble with the toolholders and create a drawing for the setters.

I'm not too fussed about the accuracy of cutting edges etc., enough detail to provide a schematic will suffice. I've started with the most popular type of tool which are the twist drills and had some success but with some errors occuring along the way.

I'll describe as best I can, my method and if anyone has any comments or suggestions on how I could improve I'd be very grateful.

To model a jobber type twist drill, I first create a circle equal to the drill Ø say 10mm and extrude it to create my 'blank'. I then draw 2 circles on one end face 180° apart to represent the start of the drill flutes.

I then create a path equal to the flute length along the axis with a radial run out to simulate a grinding wheel. Next step is to insert cuts along the path using the 2 circles as the profile.

So, now I have my 'blank' and I've saved it as a generic model for use later. Now, after all my waffle, here is the real question.

I now insert>features>flex and using the 'twisting' option, rotate or twist my model to simulate the helix angle. Happy days? I thought so until I tried to assemble the part in my holder. That's when I noticed that the whole diameter had deformed and the portion of the tool that locates in the holder is no longer a true diameter. This is correct of course but can anyone tell me how I can avoid this happening and restrict the 'twisting' to a pre-defined portion of the blank?

To date, I have cheated by cutting the back end of my drill and sleeving it in order to get a true diameter that I can use a the mate in the final assembly but is there a more 'graceful' method?

So sorry in advance for all the text and length of the post - I must learn how to post screen shots!

Cheers

Mike