Although HSS for overall construction is common, Diablo Forstner bits are machined with greater accuracy than many competitors. The central spur has a fine point to ensure precise initial positioning and honed cutting edges provide rapid material removal. Consumers should exercise extreme caution when operating a power drill, as these bits are sharp and could potentially cut one’s finger.

While available singly, Forstner bits are usually sold as boxed collections of eight or more. The best Forstner bit sets offer tremendous flexibility, great versatility, and excellent value. A standard twist drill is fine for drilling holes of small diameters, so Forstner bits are not usually found below ¼-inch. Sometimes, the smallest bit in a set will be ½-inch. The largest is usually 2 to 2 ⅛-inch. Although larger Forstner bits are available, they’re usually sold individually as they’re bigger than most people need. Metric Forstner bit sets are also available. These can be very useful when fitting cabinet hinges, for example, as the hardware is often metric. Imperial bits can be close to the same size, but not close enough for a good fit. My own experience with Forstner bits is extensive. I was the owner of a woodshop for 11 years; I’ve also renovated two homes. I use Forstner bits for precision furniture-making as well as for punching holes through support beams in preparation for cabling. Some of the best Forstner bits cut like fine chisels, but sometimes speed is more desirable than great accuracy. Durability, edge retention, and price also play a part. In my opinion, the wide range of Forstner bit sets listed above provides a solution for (almost) every demand. FAQs

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The 14-piece bit set has diameters from ¼-inch to 2 inches, providing the versatility required to undertake multiple tasks. For example, the bit range covers all standard cabinet hinge sizes. Many DIY users will be fine to use HSS bits on their own. However, professionals or individuals who use these tools frequently may want to invest in a carbide Forstner drill bit set. BASYNOL also produces a variety of imperial size Forstner drill bits, but not in a set. Product Specs

Some techniques can overcome the problem, but the simple solution for making neat, precise holes is a Forstner drill bit. It has a central point called a spur that is designed for accurate positioning, sharp cutting teeth, and wings to clear waste. As a result, there is seldom the need to cut deep holes in several stages, as you do with standard twist drill bits. One or two manufacturers use High Carbon Steel (HCS). HCS is slightly softer than HSS, though the term “softer” has to be taken into context. These bits are still hard enough to drill into wood and wood-based materials. HCS bits won’t cut aluminum and other soft metals, or tile and masonry. Bit Size & Number of Bits A major advantage of a Forstner bit is that it’s made to drill flat bottom holes. Rather than drilling all the way through, a flat bottom hole has smooth sides, a small pilot point in the center, (and the name suggests) a flat bottom. These are great for dowel joints, or fitting catches in cabinet doors. Unlike a spade or twist drill bit, Forstner bits have no problem cutting at an angle and can drill partial or overlapping holes. The latter makes for fast material removal when cutting mortises, particularly when used in a drill press. Forstner bits are also popular with woodturners, allowing large, deep holes to be cut on a lathe. The price is almost unbelievably low, but there are reasons for that. Although this set is advertised as “tungsten steel” we believe the bits are HSS. There is no box, which is disappointing but can be easily remedied. Some of the shafts are not perfectly straight, which results in holes that aren’t exactly the right size. However, this will be of little concern to those who buy these Forstner bits for high productivity in hard-working environments. Product SpecsWhile larger bits might be required for some tasks, the sizes offered in this kit will be adequate for most DIY purposes. The larger bits may also cause a problem for some hand drills or drill drivers, which may not have the torque to drive larger diameter bits. Product Specs While Forstner bits are primarily intended for use in drill presses, they’re frequently used in hand drills as well. When drilling holes for trunking or cabling, for example, Forstner bits cut cleanly and easily. By contrast, a spade bit often judders, making it difficult to control. Forstner bits produce less tear-out, too. Forstner bits create clean, accurate holes—particularly those with a flat bottom, rather than one that goes all the way through the material. One common use is when fitting the type of hinge used for kitchen cabinet doors. They can also drill overlapping holes without deflecting, which allows for fast material removal when cutting mortises. Woodturners use them for boring out vases, making candle holders, etc. Q: Is a Forstner bit better than a spade bit?

The 16-piece set comes in sizes from ¼-inch to 2 ⅛-inch bits and the quality is such that they will most likely appeal to fine furniture makers and other woodworking professionals. Product Specs Credit subject to status and affordability. Terms and conditions apply. Axminster Tool Centre Ltd trading as Axminster Tools is a credit broker and is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Credit is provided by Novuna Personal Finance, a trading style of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register no. 704348. When you need a wood cutting or boring drill bit, Bosch Forstner bits are an excellent choice. Designed with a tooth-edge that reduces friction and heat, the innovative cutting edge ensures a smooth and splinter free hole. This also guarantees an improved durability and lifespan of the bit. Alternatively, an auger bit can be used to drill smaller diameter holes while still offering high precision drilling. Equipped with a heavy-duty self-feeding tip, Bosch auger wood bits offer high chip removal rate and low friction. The majority of Forstner drill bits are made of High Speed Steel (HSS). HSS drill bits are typically titanium-made drill bits and have a titanium oxide coating. They’re durable, resistant to corrosion, and can drill through wood and steel.

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Oftentimes, two sets will come with the same minimum of maximum sizes—one may contain eight bits, while the other has 10 or 12. The latter of the two sets will have a greater variety of sizes, thus increasing versatility. However, it’s important to consider quality. While a large number of bits at a low cost might suit the DIY user, this set is unlikely to meet the standards of a professional. Saw-tooth Forstner bits have a series of teeth that resemble a coarse saw blade. These are designed for more aggressive cutting and are particularly good for end grain. The Precision Shear design, which was introduced by Freud has a serrated edge with a steep interior angle that produces a very sharp edge, and rapid, chisel-like cutting action. Material

It depends on the kind of hole you want. Spade bits work faster, but the hole is often ragged. They’re often for construction, where pipework needs to go through softwood lumber for example. A Forstner bit is slower but leaves a clean finish. It can make flat-bottomed holes, which a spade bit cannot. Q: Can Forstner bits be used with a hand drill, hammer drill, or impact driver? Contractors and tradespeople who are regularly employed on new builds or remodeling projects need tools that combine high performance with great value. This Porter-Cable Forstner bit set meets those demands and more.At first glance, all Forstner bits appear very similar. However, there are differences in the materials used, and the design of the cutting edges. While these dissimilarities may be seemingly minor, they can make a big difference to efficiency. When selecting the best Forstner bit set, pay attention to its size to ensure it’ll cover the range of tasks you need it for. Tooth Type Drill bit diameters range from ¼-inch to 2 ⅛-inch. The bits come in a wooden box equipped with a clever tilt-out mechanism which presents them ready for use. Product Specs