Forstner Bits

What To Look For in the Best Forstner Bits

Units of measurement

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

If you have a specific application in mind, get the bit size that you require. It will enable you to save money while also allowing you to obtain a higher-quality item. If you’re looking for a set to keep in your toolbox, we suggest getting one with at least five – preferably ten – different sizes bits. You won’t end up in a position where you have a Forstner bit but it’s useless because it’s the wrong size.

Types of shanks

Drill presses and ordinary hand drills, both have adjustable chucks that are appropriate for round shanks. Impact drivers with quick-release hex chucks are compatible with hex shanks. Consider your usage and choose the product accordingly.

Container

When it comes to Forstner bits, there isn’t much to talk about in terms of accessories, unlike with power tools. However, you’ll probably want to choose a set of pieces that comes with a handy storage container. This will allow you to maintain the pieces in good condition for a long time while also keeping them organized.

What Are the Benefits of Forstner Bits?

Forstner bits have a number of advantages over other bit types. Here they are, and as a woodworker, they can all give you greater control and alternatives.

More smoothness and precision

Forstner bits provide flat bottom holes that are clean and precise. When it comes to getting smoothness, the difference between a twist bit and a forstner bit is tremendous. Drilling neat holes through a thick piece of wood are possible with them.

Less tear out

With a Forstner bit, there is less tear-out. The cutting action of drilling can extract fibers from the wood. This leaves rough spots, which may necessitate more repair. The forstner bit is soft on the wood and only removes material when it is absolutely necessary.

No slippage

These bits get a great start in the wood. When using twist bits, you have to be concerned about the drill moving away from your target. Drills are slacker instruments that go where they want. Forstner bits enter the wood very well, and just where you want them to, thanks to the center spur.

Allows larger holes

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

Forstner bits are reasonably priced. While some of the larger bits may be more costly, the typical sizes are not. For around $20, you can acquire a nice quality set of bits, and for a little more, you can obtain much larger sets.

What Are Different Types of Drill Bits?

Brad-point drill bit

The tip of this drill bit has a sharp spur, and the sides have spiral grooves (flutes). The flutes are designed to capture wood chips and expel them from the hole as you drill, resulting in a clean hole. The sharp tip helps position the bit in the right area. Jobs requiring a high level of detail can be completed quickly with brad-point bits.

Twist drill bit

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

The countersink drill bit is a special bit that is used to generate a pilot hole with a wider opening at the top for countersinking screw heads. The countersink drill bit, which is primarily used on wood, allows you to insert the fastener deep enough that the head does not protrude above the surface of the material.

Forstner drill bits

The Forstner drill bit, named after its 19th-century creator, Benjamin Forstner, is designed to drill a flat-bottomed hole in wood. It has the same tip spur as a brad-point bit for precision drilling, but the body of the bit is designed to drill a flat-bottomed hole. Forstner bits are commonly used in high-end furniture and cabinetry construction to drill holes for dowels (not screws).

See all available Multi Spur Forstner Bits.