An important factor to consider is the units in which your Forstner bits will be measured. Imperial and metric sets are the two alternatives here; the former will feature inch-sized bits, while the latter will have millimeter- and centimeter-sized bits. If you’re based in the United States and generally work with local materials, choose inch-sized bits. Otherwise, a metric-sized set may be preferable. Number of bits 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.

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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. 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. BASYNOL also produces a variety of imperial size Forstner drill bits, but not in a set. Product SpecsAt 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 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?

Bosch Professional Forstner Drill Bit (for Wood, Ø 15 mm

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 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. Forstner bits allow for larger holes and bores. Twist drills are only available in a limited number of sizes. Forstner bits are introduced and overlap some of the sizes before progressing to very large diameters of several inches. Affordable option

What are Forstner bits used for?

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 Like the brad-point bit, this basic bit has a sharp cutting tip and fluted edges to remove waste when the hole is drilled. The twist bit is a multi-purpose bit that may be used on wood, thin metal, and plastic in the home. Countersink drill bit 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. 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.