Abstract: A holding or checking means for holding the control rod of a reciprocating drill feed control apparatus in position after each advancing movement of an automatic drilling machine during a "peck drilling" operation. The holding means includes a cylindrical body adapted to be fastened over the end of a drill feed control apparatus and with the control rod of the feed control apparatus extended through said body. A pair of pivotally mounted yoke arms are mounted on a cylindrical body and have semi-circular recesses adapted for friction holding engagement with the feed control rod to hold it in an advanced position when the reciprocating drill apparatus is retracted. The holding means includes a biasing means for biasing the yoke arms into friction engagement against the control rod.