First time posting here, and I could use some advice. I have a number of old Spofford braces with the wing nut chucks, and I love how light and nimble they are. The problem I am having with them is boring a straight hole (aka, being bored straight!). I am seeing a couple of problems. One is that it is difficult to square the bit up to the wood while cranking the drill. I am guessing that will come with practice. The other is that the hole sometimes appears to be a bit curved when drilling really deep stock. It almost seems like some of these old braces get out of square at the bend right above the pewetered-on crank handle, which then gives the bit the slightest wobble. Has anyone else had this experience, and does anyone have advice for the prospect of fixing an out of square brace, other than throwing it away? Any advice for boring squarely with a brace and bit?

Thanks!