7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

These are among the first purchases I made when I made a serious return to woodworking about six years ago. The price amazed me, especially when I shopped around. I was releived when I brought them home and tried them out.

I have been using them at least weekly ever since and have no real issues with them. The holes are properly sized, clean and smooth, very little tear-out on entry (depending on wood type and technique), and nice clean flat bottoms. On through holes, a backer board will reduce tear-out.

Some have complained these are dull, but I don't see that at all. Be clear on one thing; these are intended to be used in a DRILL PRESS. If you are careful, you can get away with using a hand drill, but if you need a quick dirty hole, use a spade bit.

Forstners cut differently; that's why they can cut more cleanly. They shave the wood like a plane, therefore they need to be eased in and withdrawn occasionaly to clear chips. Also, they should be run at a slower speed to prevent burning--of the bit or wood.

The only grump I have is the 1/4" bit's shank is too skinny for drilling at an angle (forstners are good at that). It is fine in 90* entries, but if an angled entry is needed, it tends to deflect. Not a killer as I don't need to angle in very much.

All in all it is a fine set at a decent price.

Steve

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

the "dull" comments almost steered me away from theseglad the price and return policy told me to go for them !Either HF changed suppliers or got their guy to step up because mine are awesome, sharp and well finished and at 7 F bits for [$], like a gift.clean crisp holes, zero burn, yes I would recommend them and wouldn't give them back for triple the price.go slow and "massage" them into the wood to clear the chips, but I guess you knew that

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

I've purchased this and other Forstner sets from HF over the years.





The quality and durability have been very good, and the prices are the best, by far.





This type of bit is a real pleasure to use. Clean hole edges and bottoms.





I often use the 3/8" to create recesses for screw heads.





With a drill press, you can drill at odd angles and do other kinky things, like off-edge holes and overlapping holes.





I much prefer the 20-piece set (HF #47129) that includes 5/16", 7/16", 9/16", etc. and many larger sizes (not currently online?).

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

Of course, not for no brainer.

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

I drilled a 5/8 hole it performed Ok nothing special . Is a matter of fact I was wondering if it was dull . I was cutting into hard wood so I thought maybe thats why it was cutting slow. When I was at the store today I said I am going to compare the HF 5/8 bit to the Roybi 5/8 bit so I bought the Roybi set , the Roybi cut much better, the Roybi set is twice the price but I would say it cut much better.

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

Works decent in my drill press at slow speeds. The cutting edges should come a little sharper though

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

These things are dull and dinged looking straight out of the box. I used them on a drill press and they work, but a lot of force is needed. Probably have a very short life if using them for anything but very soft wood. Not worth the cheap price.

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

these dull after 1 use of thick heardwood! I have been noticing Harbor freight is not very good for bits & blades!!!!

Comments about Drill Master 7 Piece, 3/8" Shank, 1/4" to 1" Forstner Bit Set:

These bits are dull as they can get. can't use them with a hand drill you you will have to use then on a drill press. only work with soft wood they burn though hard wood.