[ithacaartist]

When I disassemble a mag, I make things lots easier by reaching thru the follower slot with a pair of locking needle nose pliers to hold the spring compressed, which relieves the pressure on everything else.

I'd recommend a setup that backs up and supports the shell when installing or removing the pin or pins, and is relieved with a hole for the pin to move into, as well as the bottom's knobs, and the contours of the body.

If you're using a drill press for creating new holes in the wood, that's good. Nonetheless, It's a good idea to go only half way, then flip the mag and complete the hole. This will help ensure line-up.