So what's the use case of drilling? I'm trying the simple options available. Some discussion on that already happened in the originalâ„¢ stubborn thruhole thread.
Drilling the holes prior to plating them.
Drilling is a last ditch effort at best, as you run a real risk of destroying the hole you're trying to clear. So it's best to try every other possible method first. The needles really do work, and work along the same lines you're after with drill bits (inexpensive too). Other methods were mentioned in the thread you linked, so re-reading those you've not been able to try would be worth it IMHO. Some scrap boards would also be helpful for practicing on before trying on something you really want to repair (regardless of the method).
Really though, I'm under the strong impression you need additional thermal capacity (rather than higher temps) under certain conditions such as ground planes. Not horribly expensive either, and may only need to re-purpose something, such as an unused electric skillet (i.e. it's just gathering dust somewhere). Purpose built preheaters that are reasonably priced can be had as well, such as the
Tenma 21-10135 (Hakko's equivalent is over $300). Hot air guns can also work, but are more clunky and cumbersome to handle IMHO.