

11 16 FORSTNER BIT SERIES
Saw-tooth Forstner bits have a series of teeth that resemble a coarse saw blade. A central spur, which is just a fraction of an inch longer than the teeth, allows for precise positioning. A longer edge increases cutting speed and a bar across the center pushes the waste out of the way as the bit rotates. The width of this tooth varies-on some, it’s slender, while on others it might be as wide as ¼ the drill bit circumference. These teeth are located directly opposite each other and are designed to cleanly slice through wood fibers as they rotate. The standard Forstner bit has two individual teeth on the perimeter. 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. While these dissimilarities may be seemingly minor, they can make a big difference to efficiency. However, there are differences in the materials used, and the design of the cutting edges. Photo: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Forstner Bit SetĪt first glance, all Forstner bits appear very similar.

BEST CONTRACTOR SET: PORTER-CABLE Forstner Bit Set, 14-Piece (PC1014).BEST BUDGET: INTOO Forstner Bit Set 8 pcs Wood Drill bit Set.BEST OVERALL: Freud FB-100 16-PC Diablo Forstner Drill Bit Set.

The best Forstner bit sets offer tremendous flexibility, great versatility, and excellent value. While available singly, Forstner bits are usually sold as boxed collections of eight or more. Forstner bits are also popular with woodturners, allowing large, deep holes to be cut on a lathe. The latter makes for fast material removal when cutting mortises, particularly when used in a drill press. Unlike a spade or twist drill bit, Forstner bits have no problem cutting at an angle and can drill partial or overlapping holes. These are great for dowel joints, or fitting catches in cabinet doors. 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. As a result, there is seldom the need to cut deep holes in several stages, as you do with standard twist drill bits.Ī major advantage of a Forstner bit is that it’s made to drill flat bottom holes. It has a central point called a spur that is designed for accurate positioning, sharp cutting teeth, and wings to clear waste. Some techniques can overcome the problem, but the simple solution for making neat, precise holes is a Forstner drill bit.

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