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? 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. 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 While ordinary drill bits are quite efficient, their cutting action can create ragged holes, particularly when working with larger sizes. You could use a spade bit, but they often vibrate or “chatter” and can be difficult to control.

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. 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 Specs 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.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. While 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 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. 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. 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

The eight-piece Kowood Fostner bit set ranges from ¼-inch to 1 ⅜-inch and has tungsten carbide tips for durability. The three smallest diameter drills use an interesting combination of a Forstner-style tip with a twist drill body, which helps clear waste and prevents them from overheating in deep holes. Bosch Professional includes a wide range of high-quality accessories for wood such as machine wood drill bits, carbide hinge cutting bits and tungsten carbide tipped bits. All our drill bits for wood are specially designed to rapidly drill through wood with little force. The bits are made of high-quality steel and feature a precision ground point and cutting edge for clean, fast drilling.At first glance, it’s difficult to differentiate these tools from competitors, but Freud Precision Shear Forstner bits are forged (hammered into shape under high pressure with still molten metal). This makes them very hard, leading to superior edge retention and longer life. While not cheap, these are a worthwhile investment for both serious DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Product Specs BASYNOL also produces a variety of imperial size Forstner drill bits, but not in a set. Product Specs

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. 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 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 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.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. 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. While large collections of budget Forstner bits can sometimes be tempting, many users will never need the majority of those drills. Quality might also be a concern. The Basynol set is ideal for those who want well-made tools that might only be used occasionally, for the woodworker just starting out, or for those who need a particular metric size for cutting hinge holes, for example. 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. 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

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.The unusual open tooth blade pattern focuses on fast material removal (because time really is money for a professional) and maintains a good quality finished cut. The reduced shank means they’re designed to fit all pro-grade power drills.