I have a queen size oak futon and need to replace one of the two "stretchers" (a 1"x3"x80" oak board). The futon shop I bought this from years ago suggested that I just buy an oak board and do it myself. So I went and bought a 1"x3"x8ft red oak board at Menard's today along with a 3/8" boring bit for my hand drill. I need to put two holes in each of the board's narrow 1"x3" ends. Then, on the flat 3"x8' side, I need to bore a 3/8" hole half-way through the board. The idea is that you have special futon hex bots that go through the futon arm, into the end of the stretcher, and then you lock the bolt with a special futon barrel nut.
My biggest concern is what is the best way to drill the end holes without splitting the oak board. I'm comfortable using a drill for repairs around the house but, I have never used it to drill through a new piece of narrow oak wood before. Any suggestions??