Composite laminates are used in many applications, such as aerospace structures, pressure vessels and automobiles due to their extremely high strength to weight ratio and corrosion resistance properties. The assembly of these materials is accomplished via fastening for which precise holes are required. It may be noted that the composite laminates are difficult to machine materials, which results into low drilling efficiency and drilling-induced delamination. Hence, it is important to develop innovative drilling processes to overcome the difficulties related in machining of composite materials. This paper presents a comprehensive study involving experimental characterization to understand the effect of cutting parameters on the extent of delamination during conventional drilling of carbon fiber reinforced polymer. Some processing parameters, such as feed rate play a dominant role in delamination as compared to spindle speed. A comparative study of different techniques for controlling the delamination in conventional drilling process, such as back up plate, pre-drilled pilot hole and peck drilling has also been conducted. The analysis shows that the peck drilling yields lower delamination extent, thrust force, hole size variation and hole surface roughness.