10 Best Hole Saws For Stainless Steel in 2026

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Our best overall pick for stainless steel is the Bosch HSBIM9 Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit for its advanced tooth design and durable cobalt alloy construction. For a massive size selection, the Dashap 27-Piece Carbide Kit offers incredible value, while the Klein Tools kit is unmatched for thin sheet metal work.

Cutting stainless steel is a demanding task that can quickly ruin a standard cutter. Choosing the wrong tool leads to burnt-out teeth, damaged workpieces, and wasted time and money. We built this list based on manufacturer specifications, expert technical guidance, and patterns in user feedback to help you find a saw that will perform without fail.

Top 10 Hole Saws For Stainless Steel in the Market

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The Best Hole Saws For Stainless Steel, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Bosch HSBIM9 Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit

Bosch HSBIM9 Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
Material8% cobalt alloy bi-metal
Tooth designProgressor alternating teeth
Arbor typeSpinlock universal (2 included)
CasePlastic storage/organization case
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What We Like

  • Progressor tooth design cuts faster in metal
  • 8% cobalt alloy increases durability
  • Universal arbors fit all brand hole saws
  • Reinforced shoulders add strength and life

Trade-offs

  • Six saws offer less size variety than larger kits
  • 2.2 lb kit weight suggests a compact, not comprehensive, set

The Bosch kit uses an 8% cobalt alloy for increased durability, which helps the hole saws last longer in demanding materials. Its progressor tooth design features alternating teeth size for better performance and longer life in wood, metal, and plastic. Two spinlock universal arbors fit all brands and sizes of hole saws, simplifying diameter changes and enabling fast plug removal without tools.

This is a focused nine-piece kit with six hole saws, two arbors, and a pilot bit, covering common sizes for regular jobs rather than offering an exhaustive range. The plastic case organizes and protects all the components, keeping them together on a job site. Compared to carbide-heavy kits like the Klein Tools set, this bi-metal construction is a general-purpose choice for a variety of materials.

Best for: The tradesperson or advanced DIYer needing a reliable, durable core set for frequent work in wood, metal, and plastic. Not ideal for those requiring a vast array of sizes for one-off projects.
#2Best Large Kit Value

Dashap 27-Piece Carbide Hole Saw Kit

Dashap 27-Piece Carbide Hole Saw Kit
Number of pieces27 pieces
Cutting capacity (stainless)3mm thickness
Diameter range5/8'' to 3-15/16''
Tooth materialTungsten carbide
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What We Like

  • Extensive 23-saw size range for numerous tasks
  • Carbide teeth for cutting hard metals like stainless steel
  • Includes ejection springs for easy slug removal
  • Comes in a sturdy, portable carrying case

Trade-offs

  • Requires coolant application for optimal stainless cutting

With 23 carbide-tipped hole saws covering diameters from 5/8 inch to just under four inches, this kit is built for the user who needs a solution for nearly any metal-cutting job that comes through the shop. The tungsten carbide construction handles the abrasion of 3mm stainless steel, while the included ejection springs save time and frustration on every cut. It’s the logical choice for a professional or serious DIYer who values having the right size on hand over a compact footprint.

The complete set weighs 14.6 pounds in its carrying case, so it is not a lightweight addition to a tool bag. For comparison, the Klein Tools Heavy-Duty Carbide Hole Cutter Kit is listed at 1.4 pounds. The Dashap kit’s broad size assortment organizes many tools into one box.

Best for: Users needing a wide assortment of carbide hole saw sizes for cutting hard metals like stainless steel and iron plate.

Product photos

#3Best For Thin Sheet Metal

Klein Tools Heavy-Duty Carbide Hole Cutter Kit

Klein Tools Heavy-Duty Carbide Hole Cutter Kit
MaterialCarbide
Max Material Thickness3/16-Inch (0.5 cm)
Cutting Diameters7/8", 1-1/8", 1-3/8"
Pilot Bit FeatureSplit point
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What We Like

  • Carbide construction for durability on hard metals
  • Integrated flange prevents drilling too deep
  • Split point pilot bit resists walking on sheet metal
  • Specifically designed for stainless steel and copper

Trade-offs

  • Limited to sheet metal under 3/16-inch thick
  • Only three cutting diameters in the kit

This Klein kit is built to cut quick, precise holes in stainless steel, mild steel, iron, copper, and brass sheet up to 3/16-inch thick, which makes it a specialist for thin, hard metals. Its carbide teeth are designed for long life in these materials where other types may dull. An integrated flange prevents drilling beyond the sheet metal, offering control and protecting the workpiece.

The set contains just three sizes: 7/8-inch, 1-1/8-inch, and 1-3/8-inch, so it’s not for jobs requiring a wide range of diameters. For general-purpose hole making in wood, plastic, or thicker materials, a kit like the Bosch HSBIM9 offers more pieces and a broader size range. These Klein cutters are focused on specific sheet metal applications.

Best for: Electricians and metal fabricators regularly installing outlets, pipes, or vents in thin stainless steel, copper, or brass sheet. Not ideal for contractors needing a single kit for wood, plastic, and metal or for drilling into material thicker than 3/16 of an inch.
#4Best Compact Kit

Milwaukee Big Hawg Carbide Hole Saw Kit

Milwaukee Big Hawg Carbide Hole Saw Kit
TypeCarbide Hole Saw Kit
Piece Count10 piece
Dimensions4.2 x 2.4 x 4.2 inches
MaterialCarbide Teeth
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What We Like

  • Compact 4.2-inch cubic footprint
  • Carbide teeth for hard materials
  • Complete 10-piece kit format

Trade-offs

  • Limited piece count of 10
  • Small kit size may limit hole diameter range

Measuring just 4.2 inches in its longest dimension, this Milwaukee kit is designed to take up minimal space. Its carbide teeth are suited for cutting hard materials like stainless steel. The compact form means it can be stored easily in a packed tool bag.

The kit contains ten pieces, which is fewer than many other sets, such as the 27-piece Dashap kit. This narrower size range focuses the selection. The smaller piece count contributes directly to its reduced physical size and weight.

Best for: Users needing a compact carbide hole saw kit. Not ideal for users needing the widest range of hole sizes.
#5Best For Large Diameters

Malco HC1 Adjustable Sheet Metal Hole Cutter

Malco HC1 Adjustable Sheet Metal Hole Cutter
Adjustable Diameter Range2 in. to 12 in.
Material Capacity22-gauge stainless steel
Drill Chuck Requirement1/4 in. or larger
Frame MaterialAluminum
Weight0.9 pounds
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What We Like

  • Massive 12-inch maximum cutting diameter.
  • Extremely lightweight and portable aluminum frame.
  • Field-serviceable with common, replaceable parts.

Trade-offs

  • Limited to 22-gauge stainless, not heavy plate.
  • Large frame size needs clearance for operation.

The ability to cut clean holes up to 12 inches in diameter makes this tool unique for large openings in sheet metal. For HVAC pros or metal fabricators installing duct collars, register boxes, or equipment knockouts, this adjustable cutter replaces an entire set of large-diameter hole saws with one compact tool. Its lightweight aluminum frame is a genuine advantage when you’re moving between job sites all day, as it stores in a pouch like a standard hand tool. The precision sealed bearings and English/metric gauge ensure smooth, vibration-free cuts at your exact required size.

Designed for sheet metal, the Malco HC1 handles 20-gauge galvanized steel, aluminum, copper, and 22-gauge stainless steel, so it covers common HVAC and ductwork materials. Its trade-off is material capacity; for thicker stainless plate, a carbide hole saw like the Klein Tools kit would be required. Value comes from the adjustable 2-inch to 12-inch diameter range, making this a specialist tool that pays for itself on jobs where fixed-size cutters can’t reach.

Best for: HVAC technicians and sheet metal workers needing precise, large-diameter holes up to 12 inches in light-gauge stainless and other metals. Not ideal for cutting thick stainless plate or for general-purpose small hole drilling.
#6Best Electrician's Set

DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit

DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
ConstructionBi-Metal
Made InU.S.A.
Kit Weight3.3 Pounds
Saw DesignDeeper cut
Plug EjectionLarge continuous slot
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What We Like

  • Patented toothforms for efficient chip removal.
  • Large slot provides easy plug ejection.
  • Deeper design cuts 2-by material in one pass.
  • Versatile bi-metal edge cuts wood, metal, and plastic.

Trade-offs

  • Bi-metal construction, not carbide-tipped for hardest alloys.
  • At 3.3 lb, the kit is heavier than some basic bi-metal sets.

Because its deeper saw design cuts 2-by material in one pass, this DeWalt kit can save significant time on repetitive jobs. The patented toothforms optimize chip removal for efficient drilling, which the brand states contributes to up to 50% longer life compared to prior generations when cutting black pipe. Made in the U.S.A. with global materials, this set is built for the professional needing versatile performance across wood, metal, and plastic.

The trade-off is the cutting technology itself. While the high-speed steel edge is versatile, it’s a bi-metal design, not carbide-tipped like the Milwaukee Big Hawg or Klein Tools kits. For all-day drilling into hardened stainless, a carbide tooth will typically outlast it. This DeWalt set is about dependable, multi-material performance rather than being a specialist for the absolute toughest metals. For an electrician dealing with wood panels, plastic enclosures, and thin-gauge metal daily, it’s a thoroughly capable workhorse.

Best for: Electricians and general contractors who need a single, durable kit for mixed materials on the job. Not ideal for metal fabricators who exclusively cut thick, hardened stainless steel and require carbide-tipped cutters.

Product photos

#7Best High-Speed Cobalt Kit

EZARC Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit

EZARC Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
MaterialM42 bi-metal with 8% cobalt
Sizes in kit10 sizes from 3/4" to 2-1/2"
Cutting depth1.89 inches (48mm)
Tooth pitch4/6 TPI variable
Arbor sizes included3/8" & 7/16"
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What We Like

  • 8% cobalt construction for faster, longer-lasting cuts
  • All-access eject slots for rapid chip clearance
  • Complete organized kit with a heavy-duty case
  • Variable tooth pitch for faster, cleaner cuts

Trade-offs

  • Maximum diameter of 2-1/2" limits larger plumbing work
  • Cutting depth under 2 inches can be shallow for thick pipe
  • No sizes below 3/4" for very small conduit holes

An 8% cobalt bi-metal construction allows this saw to cut materials up to 30% faster and last up to twice as long as standard versions, which saves time on repetitive tasks. The kit handles common jobs like installing door hardware, lighting fixtures, or pipes in materials ranging from thin metal and plywood to PVC. Its organized case with ten sizes from 3/4-inch to 2-1/2 inches makes it a practical, ready-to-use set for various installations.

The maximum cutting diameter is two and a half inches with a depth of 1.89 inches, so it cannot handle openings for large plumbing vents or very thick, stacked materials. Among the other listed products, kits like the Dashap 27-Piece or METOTY 19-Piece offer larger maximum diameters, while the Milwaukee Big Hawg is another carbide option. For the hole sizes it includes, however, the EZARC set provides efficient cutting for a wide range of sheet goods and thin metals.

Best for: Installers and remodelers needing a organized set of hole saws for tasks like furniture, fixtures, and pipe work in wood, drywall, and thin metal.

Product photos

#8Best Heavy-Duty Carbide Set

KJE Carbide-Tipped Hole Saw Kit

KJE Carbide-Tipped Hole Saw Kit
Hole saw sizes1/2" to 2-1/8"
Tooth materialTungsten carbide tipped (TCT)
Tooth hardnessHRA: 89.5
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What We Like

  • Triple-blade design for sharpness and durability
  • Titanium-coated carbide teeth resist rust and wear
  • Wide size range from 1/2" to 2-1/8"
  • Kit includes reinforced pilot drills and multiple wrenches

Trade-offs

  • Maximum size of 2-1/8" limits larger plumbing or conduit work
  • Requires coolant for safe, continuous high-speed drilling

With 13 carbide-tipped hole saws covering diameters from 1/2 inch to 2-1/8 inches, the KJE kit provides a complete range for common hole sizes. Its triple-blade design and titanium-plated carbide teeth with an HRA 89.5 hardness resist wear during tough cuts. The manufacturer recommends using coolant for continuous high-speed drilling to manage friction heat.

The set’s maximum diameter of 2-1/8 inches is smaller than some other kits, like the Dashap set which goes up to 3-15/16 inches. The included titanium pilot drills are reinforced to resist breakage, which helps maintain precision. Following the safety guidance to wear protective goggles and gloves is advised during operation.

Best for: Drilling clean holes in materials like stainless steel, iron, or aluminum where a set covering 1/2 inch to 2-1/8 inch diameters is sufficient.

Product photos

#9Best Complete Starter Kit

METOTY Carbide Hole Saw Kit

METOTY Carbide Hole Saw Kit
Number of saws13 (1/2" to 2-1/8")
Total piece count19 pieces
Tooth materialTungsten carbide tipped (TCT)
CoatingTitanium-plated
Weight5.4 Pounds
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What We Like

  • 13 carbide-tipped sizes cover common needs.
  • Includes three titanium pilot drills and wrenches.
  • Hard TCT teeth cut stainless steel effectively.
  • Compatible with handheld drills and drill presses.

Trade-offs

  • At 5.4 lb, the kit is heavier than some.
  • Maximum size is 2-1/8", limiting large projects.
  • Not for tile, glass, concrete, or stone.

Covering sizes from 1/2 inch to 2-1/8 inches, this 13-piece carbide-tipped set handles the common hole diameters needed for metal projects. Its industrial-grade carbide teeth resist wear and rust, which helps them cut through hard materials like stainless steel without dulling quickly. The kit also includes three titanium-plated pilot drills and three L-wrenches, providing multiple pieces of the most frequently used components.

The trade-off is in specialization and heft. The 5.4-pound kit has substance, but it’s focused solely on metal. You can’t grab one of these for a quick pass through wood or tile. For larger diameter work, you’ll hit the 2-1/8″ ceiling and need to look at a kit like the Dashap 27-Piece. For a pro who only needs a few specific, frequently used sizes and demands maximum durability, a dedicated heavy-duty option like the Klein Tools carbide cutter might be a more efficient long-term purchase. This METOTY set excels at providing a complete, ready-to-go toolbox solution.

Best for: Metal drilling tasks requiring a range of carbide hole saw sizes from 1/2" to 2-1/8".

Product photos

#10Best For Thick Materials

KATA Deep Cut Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit

KATA Deep Cut Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
Cutting Depth48mm deep cut
ConstructionM42 8% cobalt bi-metal
Kit Contents16-piece set with arbor
Sizes Included3/4" to 2-1/2"
StorageHard molded case
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What We Like

  • 48mm depth ideal for thick stock
  • M42 8% cobalt alloy for heat resistance
  • Complete kit with organized hard case
  • Deep gullets for improved chip removal

Trade-offs

  • Not for tile, concrete, brick, or stone
  • Not for thick hardened steel
  • Requires cutting oil for metal work

The 48mm cutting depth is the key spec, allowing you to bore cleanly through thicker boards and deeper openings where a standard 38mm saw would bottom out. This makes the KATA kit a logical choice for plumbing, electrical, and remodeling jobs where you’re routing pipe or conduit through dimensional lumber. The M42 8% cobalt bi-metal construction offers better heat resistance for the long cuts this depth allows, and the included hard case keeps all sixteen sizes and the arbor ready for the jobsite.

With its M42 8% cobalt bi-metal construction, this hole saw is built for durability and heat resistance, which translates to a longer cutting life across many common jobsite materials. It’s designed to cut clean holes in wood, plywood, drywall, PVC, plastic, aluminum, and thin metal sheet. The manufacturer specifies it is not for use on tile, concrete, brick, stone, glass, masonry, or thick hardened steel.

Best for: Tradespeople and serious DIYers needing to bore deep holes in wood, plastic, and thin metal sheet. Not ideal for drilling into masonry, tile, or thick, hardened stainless steel plate.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Hole Saws For Stainless Steel

Our evaluation was research-based. We analyzed manufacturer data on materials like cobalt alloy percentages and carbide-tipped construction. We reviewed technical requirements from industry experts on proper speeds and applications.

Finally, we synthesized patterns in owner feedback regarding durability, cut quality, and common points of failure in real-world use. The most critical criteria were the cutting-edge material (carbide for hard alloys, high-cobalt bi-metal for general use), the kit’s intended application depth (sheet metal vs. Thick stock), and the overall value proposition regarding included sizes and accessories.

A limitation of this approach is that we cannot verify the precise number of cuts a specific saw can make before dulling, as that depends heavily on operator technique and work conditions.

What To Look For In Hole Saws For Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a hard, gummy metal that generates tremendous heat. The right hole saw manages this heat and maintains a sharp edge. You need a tool built for the job, not a general-purpose cutter you’d use on wood or plastic.

Focus on the cutting edge material first: carbide-tipped teeth are best for frequent stainless work. Ensure the kit includes features for metalwork, like ejection springs, and always plan to use a cutting fluid.

Cutting Edge Material

This is the single most important factor. For stainless steel, you have two primary options. Carbide-tipped teeth are extremely hard and resist the abrasion and heat of stainless, making them the top choice for dedicated metalwork. High-speed bi-metal saws with 8% cobalt alloy (like M42 steel) offer better heat resistance and longevity than standard bi-metal saws and are a versatile choice for mixed-material tasks that include occasional stainless. A basic bi-metal saw will dull rapidly on stainless.

Application & Kit Design

Match the tool to your specific task. For thin sheet metal under 3/16-inch, a dedicated sheet metal hole cutter with a depth-limiting flange is ideal. For plumbing or electrical through thick wood and metal, a deep-cut saw (often 48mm or more) is necessary. Consider the kit’s composition: does it include a range of useful sizes, a sturdy case, multiple pilot bits, and wrenches? For metal, features like wide chip-ejection slots and built-in slug-removal springs are invaluable. Our guide to metal-cutting hole saws dives deeper into these specialized designs.

Use With Proper Technique

Even the best hole saw will fail without correct operation. Always use a suitable drill or drill press at a slow speed. High RPMs generate excessive heat, which anneals (softens) the metal and destroys the saw’s teeth.

Applying a continuous stream of cutting oil or paste is non-negotiable; it cools the cut and lubricates the teeth. Start with a solid pilot dimple to prevent the bit from “walking” on the slick metal surface.

  • Start slow: Use the lowest speed setting on your drill that still allows cutting.
  • Lubricate constantly: Keep the cutting edge wet with oil; a dark, smoking cut is a sign of failure.
  • Apply steady pressure: Let the tool’s weight and a firm grip do the work, don’t force it.
  • Clear chips: Periodically back the saw out to remove metal shavings and prevent binding.
  • Secure your workpiece: Clamp it down firmly to prevent dangerous spinning or grabbing.

The rule is simple: slow speed, heavy lubrication, and a sharp, appropriate cutter.

Hole Saws For Stainless Steel Compared

The table below compares our top picks across key specifications to help you see the differences at a glance.

ProductMaterial / Tooth TypeCutting Diameter RangeNumber of Pieces
Bosch HSBIM9 Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit8% cobalt alloy bi-metalN/A9 piece
Dashap 27-Piece Carbide Hole Saw KitTungsten carbide5/8'' to 3-15/16''27 pieces
Klein Tools Heavy-Duty Carbide Hole Cutter KitCarbide7/8", 1-1/8", 1-3/8"4-Piece
Milwaukee Big Hawg Carbide Hole Saw KitCarbide TeethN/A10 piece
Malco HC1 Adjustable Sheet Metal Hole CutterN/A2 in. to 12 in.N/A
DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw KitBi-MetalN/AN/A
EZARC Bi-Metal Hole Saw KitM42 bi-metal with 8% cobalt3/4" to 2-1/2"16PCS
KJE Carbide-Tipped Hole Saw KitTungsten carbide tipped (TCT)1/2" to 2-1/8"20 in 1
METOTY Carbide Hole Saw KitTungsten carbide tipped (TCT)1/2" to 2-1/8"19 PCS
KATA Deep Cut Bi-Metal Hole Saw KitM42 8% cobalt bi-metal3/4" to 2-1/2"16PCS

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of hole saw is best for stainless steel?

For frequent stainless steel work, a carbide-tipped hole saw is best. The carbide teeth are significantly harder than bi-metal and withstand the heat and abrasion of stainless far better. For occasional stainless cutting within a mixed-material workflow, a high-cobalt (8%) bi-metal saw is a durable and versatile choice.

Can I use a hole saw on stainless steel?

Yes, but you must use a hole saw specifically rated for metal and follow proper technique. A standard bi-metal hole saw designed for wood will dull almost instantly. You need slow drill speed, constant application of cutting fluid, and a securely clamped workpiece to succeed.

What is the best way to cut a hole in stainless steel?

The best way is to use a carbide-tipped hole saw in a drill press or a powerful handheld drill at a very low RPM. Apply a dedicated cutting oil or paste throughout the entire operation to manage heat. Start with a center-punch mark and a pilot hole if your kit includes a bit, and ensure the metal is firmly clamped to a stable surface.

What can I use to cut a hole in stainless steel besides a hole saw?

For large or irregular holes in thin sheet metal, a jigsaw with a fine-toothed metal blade or a nibbler are good options. For thicker plate, a plasma cutter is the professional standard. For cutting pipe or making rough openings, a reciprocating saw with a blade designed for stainless steel can be effective.

Do I need a special drill bit for stainless steel?

Yes. The pilot bit included with your hole saw kit must also be suited for metal. Look for bits made from cobalt steel or with a titanium nitride coating. Using a standard black-oxide or high-speed steel bit will likely result in it overheating and dulling before it even pilots the hole for your saw. We have a dedicated resource on drill bits for stainless steel.

The Bottom Line

The Bosch HSBIM9 Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit is our best overall recommendation for its balanced performance, durable construction, and versatility. It works well across wood, plastic, and metal, making it an excellent core set for any toolbox. If your budget is tight but you need a wide range of carbide sizes, the Dashap 27-Piece Kit is the large kit value pick. The Klein Tools kit is purpose-built for electricians working with thin stainless sheet. No matter which saw you choose, remember that using the correct slow speed and ample cutting fluid is even more critical than the tool itself for successfully drilling stainless steel.