Forstner bits

Mal · 12 Nov 2015

Can anyone please recommend which Forstner bits they use?

I bought a pack from Screwfix which would struggle to cut through balsa wood, they are so bad!

I really just need one 42mm for creating holes for tea light holders

Thanks!

Rhossydd · 12 Nov 2015

I've been very happy with Axminster's own brand http://www.axminster.co.uk/axcaliber-forstner-bits not the most expensive, but they seem to work much better than the cheap rubbish from Toolstation/Screwfix etc

Mike.S · 12 Nov 2015

As a mid-range option I use/like Fisch forstner bits.

Mark Hancock · 12 Nov 2015

I would suggest you use a Saw Tooth rather than a Forstner bit. The ones I use I think are Clico. Maybe a bit more expensive but they've lasted me years so have covered their cost.

Also make sure you sharpen them correctly. Very easy with a diamond hone.

NazNomad · 12 Nov 2015

I got this set from Screwfix. The saw-tooth Forstner bits in the set cut perfectly ok.

http://www.screwfix.com/p/wood-drill-bi ... 5-pc/75037

chipmunk · 12 Nov 2015

I agree with Mark that sawtooth bits are more useful and if you can afford Clico, Fisch or Festool then buy them - they'll last a lifetime.

I have a metric Screwfix set of 5 I bought ~15-20 years ago that are pretty good and still going strong but I have also bought some really useless cheap Axminster and Planet Forstner bits recently that are made of cheese and have geometries that don't seem to want to cut even when the cutting edges are sharp.

One set I have which I think represents pretty good value is this Record set of 16...
http://www.recordpower.co.uk/product/16-piece-forstner-bit-set#.VkSYZrfhBpg

They're Imperial in 1/8" steps. I bought them when they were £30 and my set has been resharpened loads of times. Contrary to what it says they're Forstner in the smallest sizes and sawtooth in the larger and the larger ones have hex shanks to stop them slipping in the chuck.

HTH
Jon