10 Best Hole Saws For Wood in 2026
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Our best overall pick for wood is the DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit for its ability to cut through thick framing lumber in one pass and its long slots for easy plug removal. For those who prioritize speed, the Bosch Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit excels, while the Diablo Bi-Metal Hole Saw Set offers the deepest cut capacity.
Choosing the right hole saw means balancing cutting depth, ease of use, and the specific demands of your material. We built this guide by examining specifications, manufacturer data, and patterns in expert and owner feedback to help you find a kit that fits your work.
Top 10 Hole Saws For Wood in the Market
Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time.
The Best Hole Saws For Wood, Reviewed
DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
What We Like
- Deep design cuts 2-by material in a single pass
- Long side slots for easy wood plug ejection
- Versatile bi-metal blade cuts wood, metal, and plastic
Trade-offs
- At 3.3 pounds, it's heavier than the 2.2-pound Bosch kit
- Deeper cut design adds bulk compared to shallower sets
Patented toothforms are designed for up to 50% longer life cutting black pipe compared to prior DeWalt generations, which means less frequent and costly replacements for professionals. This kit’s deeper saw design cuts 2-by material in one pass, a clear advantage for framing or plumbing where time matters. Large, continuous slots provide leverage for easy plug ejection, a feature reviewers report makes removing wood plugs much easier.
That deeper design and full kit contribute to a weight of 3.3 pounds. Its case measures 10.6 by 11.9 inches, so it’s better for a truck box or shop shelf than a minimalist tool pouch. For comparison, the Lenox T3 kit is listed at 1.0 pound, making it a lighter alternative. You get a versatile set made in the U.S.A. for drilling wood, metal, and plastic, but with the heft typical of a capable, complete kit.
Product photos

Bosch Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
What We Like
- Progressor tooth design cuts wood and metal faster
- SpinLock arbor fits all brands for quick changes
- 8% cobalt alloy and reinforced shoulders enhance durability
- Compact, organized kit protects all components
Trade-offs
- Small slots on saws make plug removal frustrating
- 9-piece kit offers fewer saw sizes than some competitors
- Primarily for general-purpose holes up to 2 inches
In expert testing, the Bosch kit cut through ¾-inch hardwood a full second faster than other hole saws, making it the fastest option for completing multi-hole jobs. This speed comes from the progressor tooth design and 8% cobalt alloy construction, which allow it to produce clean holes in wood, metal, and plastic. The universal SpinLock arbor simplifies changing sizes, though some reviewers report the small slots on the saws can make removing plugs difficult.
The trade-off for that speed and compact design is in the details. Owner feedback consistently points to the small plug-ejection slots as a genuine hassle, often requiring an extra tool to pry out wood cores. Compared to a dedicated electrician’s set like the DeWalt, the Bosch offers a more focused range of sizes in a lighter, more portable package. It’s the right choice when outright cutting speed and alloy durability are your top priorities, but be ready to work a little harder to clear the waste.
Diablo Bi-Metal Hole Saw Set
What We Like
- Deep 2-3/8-inch cut capacity for thicker stock
- Tool-free plug ejection speeds up material removal
- Snap-Lock mandrel allows quick size changes
- Variable tooth design reduces vibration during cuts
Trade-offs
- At 6.6 lb, it's the heaviest kit in the guide
- Large 13-inch case requires more storage space
With a 2-3/8 inch cutting depth, this hole saw can make deeper holes in a single pass compared to standard ones, which saves time on drilling tasks. The set includes a Snap-Lock Plus mandrel for quick hole saw changes and a tool-free plug ejection feature to keep work moving. Its variable tooth design is noted for faster cuts with less vibration, which can reduce physical strain during operation.
The full kit weighs 6.6 pounds, so it takes up more space in a toolbox than lighter sets like the 2.2-pound Bosch Bi-Metal Kit. Its deep-cut capacity and universal mandrel compatibility make it versatile for various hole sizes from 5/8 inch to 6 inches in diameter. Research mentions that pros and tradesmen across various industries trust Diablo’s hole saws for results.
Product photos

Milwaukee Hole Dozer Kit
What We Like
- Flat teeth provide precise cuts in hard materials.
- Wide gullets efficiently expel sawdust in wood.
- Side holes allow easy plug removal with a screwdriver.
- Large 20-piece kit covers a wide range of diameters.
Trade-offs
- At 4.0 pounds, it's heavier than the 2.2-pound Bosch kit.
- Less aggressive tooth angle may cut slower in softwoods.
A 20-piece bi-metal kit means you’re covered for almost any common hole size in wood, metal, or plastic without a second trip to the store. The Milwaukee Hole Dozer’s unique tooth geometry is its standout feature. Those flat teeth and wide gullets make it a star for controlled cuts in tough materials like metal and hardwoods, where it manages heat and clears chips effectively. This is the set for the pro or serious DIYer who needs one comprehensive, durable kit that performs predictably across a mixed bag of materials.
The trade-off for that breadth and specialized performance is bulk. The kit’s size and weight make it less portable than a compact set like the Bosch Bi-Metal Kit. For someone who only needs to drill a few holes in wood occasionally, a smaller set is more practical. But if your projects regularly swing from framing lumber to electrical boxes or metal conduit, this kit’s design and size range justify its place as the most complete solution on the bench.
KATA Hole Saw Kit
What We Like
- Color-coated finish for cleaner storage
- Hardened teeth for clean cuts in wood and PVC
- Complete kit with mandrel and pilot bits
Trade-offs
- Cutting depth limited to about 1 inch
- Carbon steel construction is not for metal or masonry
For the DIYer tackling occasional projects, the hardened carbon steel teeth will punch cleanly through wood, plywood, and drywall without fuss. The color-coated finish and included plastic case are thoughtful touches that keep your toolbox organized and free from the usual oily mess, making this a straightforward, no-surprises set for fundamental tasks.
The manufacturer specifies these saws for soft materials like wood and PVC, not for metal, tile, stone, or concrete. Its recommended cutting depth is about one inch, limiting it to thinner stock. Among the other products listed, the DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit weighs 3.3 pounds, while this KATA set weighs 0.6 pounds, indicating a difference in physical bulk and likely material composition. This makes the KATA a candidate for simple, shallow cuts where a compact, clean-storing kit is a priority over broader material compatibility.
Product photos

KATA Deep Cut Bi-Metal Kit
What We Like
- 48mm depth handles thick wood and deep openings
- M42 cobalt construction improves heat resistance and durability
- Complete kit with organized hard case for job site use
- Deep gullets and side slots aid chip and plug removal
Trade-offs
- Not for tile, concrete, brick, stone, or glass
- Maximum diameter is 2-1/2 inches
- Deeper cut requires more frequent chip clearing to avoid binding
The 48mm cutting depth is what sets this kit apart, letting you bore cleanly through thick timbers, stacked boards, or deep cabinet sides where a standard 38mm saw would bottom out. For plumbers or electricians running large conduit or creating deep-set fixture openings, that extra reach means fewer workarounds. The M42 cobalt teeth should hold an edge longer in abrasive plywood and composites, and the full set of sizes covers most common jobs. It’s a practical choice when your project list includes framing, remodeling, or any task that demands a hole deeper than an inch and a half.
This hole saw set is designed for clean holes in wood, plywood, drywall, PVC, plastic, aluminum, and thin metal sheet. It is not for use on tile, concrete, brick, stone, glass, masonry, or thick hardened steel. For best results during deeper cuts, the manufacturer advises starting slowly, keeping the saw perpendicular, and clearing chips often to help with chip and plug removal.
Product photos

Lenox Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
What We Like
- Includes two arbors for quick size changes.
- Speed slot system simplifies plug removal.
- Bi-metal construction handles wood and metal.
- Compact 1.0-pound kit is highly portable.
Trade-offs
- At 9 saws, the size range is narrower than 20-piece kits.
- Only includes two pilot bits for the nine saws.
Weighing one pound, the Lenox Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit is exceptionally light for its 13-piece contents. This low weight makes it easy to carry in a tool bag or pouch. The kit includes nine bi-metal hole saws, two arbors, and two pilot bits for wood and metal applications, and its speed slot system aids in plug removal. Its dimensions of 11.2 by 8.0 by 1.0 inches result in a compact case.
Compared to kits like the 3.3-pound DeWalt or 4.0-pound Milwaukee, the Lenox set offers less bulk. The trade-off is a more focused selection of sizes rather than the broader range found in larger, heavier kits. It is designed for electricians and plumbers, as indicated in its product title.
VIKITON Hole Saw with Dust Catcher
What We Like
- Bi-metal construction for longer life
- Complete kit includes all needed parts
- Heat-resistant dust bowl for continuous use
Trade-offs
- Dust bowl is not compatible with other hole saw brands
- Cannot cut brittle materials like plaster, tile, or granite
A 6.25-inch hole saw paired with a dedicated dust catcher makes this kit a focused solution for a specific, messy job. It’s built for cutting clean openings for recessed lights in ceiling drywall, where containing the fallout is half the battle. The bi-metal teeth should hold up through plenty of installations, and having the arbor and a spare drill bit in the box gets you working immediately. This is for the electrician or DIYer who needs to install multiple can lights without turning the room below into a snow globe.
The trade-off is its specialization. You get one size, and the dust bowl only works with this VIKITON saw. For a general workshop needing a range of sizes, a kit like the Bosch HSBIM9 offers more versatility. But if your project list is dominated by overhead work, this combination of a capable saw and its integrated containment system handles the unique headache of ceiling cuts directly.
Product photos

Bosch M42 Bi-Metal Hole Saw
What We Like
- M42 cobalt alloy delivers 20% more life
- Triangle slot aids in plug removal
- Progressor teeth cut fast in wood and metal
- Deeper cup handles thicker material applications
Trade-offs
- Sold as a tool-only saw; arbor purchased separately
- Single 3-inch size limits project scope
The Bosch HBT300 burrowed through hardwood faster than other tested saws, a direct result of its M42 cobalt alloy and Progressor tooth design. That speed translates to less time on the ladder or in an awkward position, making it a standout for installers who need to punch clean holes quickly in wood, drywall, and plastic. Its triangle slot design is engineered specifically to help eject the wooden plug, a common annoyance that turns a simple task into a frustrating one. This focus on a smooth workflow makes it a premium choice for electricians and plumbers running lines through studs.
Compared to a full kit like the DeWalt Bi-Metal set, this is a specialist tool you buy for a specific, frequent job, not a versatile collection for a home shop. It’s built for durability and a single, efficient purpose, so consider your typical project scale. If you’re drilling the same size hole all day, this saw’s longevity and speed justify its place in your bag.
Product photos

Milwaukee Carbide Hole Cutter Set
What We Like
- Carbide teeth for cutting hard materials
- Wide gullets for fast sawdust ejection
- Side holes for easy plug removal
Trade-offs
- Only four sizes in the set
- Smaller set compared to 9 or 13-piece kits
This set’s carbide construction and unique tooth geometry make it an outlier. The flat teeth and wide gullets let it power through hardwood and excel in metal without grabbing or burning. That design, plus the handy side holes for prying out plugs, makes it a precise and durable choice for anyone regularly tackling tough, mixed materials where a bi-metal saw might dull quickly. It’s built for the user who needs a hole saw that can handle abuse and deliver clean cuts in demanding stock.
The trade-off is in versatility. With only four cutters, it covers fewer specific diameters than larger kits like the 13-piece Lenox set. For a contractor who needs a hole saw for every common pipe or conduit size, this Milwaukee set will leave you reaching for another tool. But if your primary need is a few reliable, hard-wearing sizes for metal or dense wood, this carbide set’s longevity and performance justify its place in your bag.
How We Evaluated Hole Saws For Wood
Our research focused on comparing specifications, manufacturer claims on durability, and consistent feedback from expert round-ups and owner reviews. We prioritized three key areas for wood: cutting capacity, ease of plug and chip removal, and overall kit utility. Cutting depth determines if you can handle thick stock like 2x4s in one go.
Plug removal features, like side slots or ejection systems, dramatically impact workflow speed on repetitive jobs. Finally, we considered kit completeness, including the number of arbors and pilot bits, which affects versatility. Since this is a research-based evaluation, we cannot comment on long-term wear or performance in niche materials beyond what the documentation and feedback patterns indicate.
What To Look For In Hole Saws For Wood
Picking the right hole saw kit means matching its features to your most common tasks. A great kit for a carpenter differs from one perfect for an electrician or a weekend crafter.
Look for a bi-metal construction for versatility, a cutting depth that matches your stock thickness, and features that make removing the wood plug simple and fast. A well-organized kit with multiple arbors saves time on the job.
Cutting Depth & Capacity
The advertised cutting depth is critical. Standard saws cut about one inch deep, which is suitable for plywood or thin boards. For thicker material like two-by-four lumber or layered stock, a deep-cut saw with a capacity of one and seven-eighths inches or more is needed. Drilling completely through in one pass is faster and cleaner, but a deeper cup also requires more frequent pauses to clear sawdust to prevent binding.
Construction & Tooth Design
Bi-metal construction, combining a high-speed steel cutting edge with a durable carbon steel body, is the versatile standard for cutting wood, plastic, and even some metals. Tooth geometry affects performance. Aggressive, variable, or “progressor” teeth are designed to cut faster in wood, while flatter tooth profiles can provide more control and cleaner edges in hardwoods.
Wide gullets between the teeth help eject sawdust efficiently, keeping the cut cool and preventing clogging. For a deeper dive on tool selection, our guide on spade bit vs Forstner bit compares other methods for drilling large holes.
Kit Design & Usability
A complete, organized kit prevents frustration. Check how many pilot bits and arbors are included; having extras means you can switch sizes without stopping to change a broken bit. Look for features that address the universal headache of plug removal: long side slots, dedicated ejection holes, or tool-free snap-out systems. Finally, consider the case. A sturdy, compartmentalized box protects the teeth during transport and keeps all parts together. For builders assembling a full toolbox, starting with one of the best hole saw kits is a smart move.
- Check that the arbor system is compatible with your drill’s chuck type.
- Ensure the kit includes the specific diameter sizes you use most often.
- Look for a case that latches securely for job-site travel.
A good hole saw kit feels like an extension of your drill, not an obstacle.
Hole Saws For Wood Compared
The table below compares key specifications across our top picks to help you see the differences at a glance.
| Product | Material | Kit Contents | Cutting Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit | Bi-Metal | N/A | Deeper saw design |
| Bosch Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit | 8% cobalt bi-metal alloy | 9 piece | N/A |
| Diablo Bi-Metal Hole Saw Set | Bi-Metal | 10 saw cups, mandrel, pilot bit | 2-3/8 inches |
| Milwaukee Hole Dozer Kit | Bi-Metal | 20 pieces | N/A |
| KATA Hole Saw Kit | Hardened carbon steel | 5 saws, mandrel, 2 drill bits, hex key | N/A |
| KATA Deep Cut Bi-Metal Kit | M42 8% cobalt bi-metal | 16 pieces with arbor, bit, key | 48mm deep cut |
| Lenox Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit | Bi-Metal | 13 pieces | N/A |
| VIKITON Hole Saw with Dust Catcher | Bi-metal, HSS teeth | Saw, bowl, arbor, drill bit, hex key | N/A |
| Bosch M42 Bi-Metal Hole Saw | M42 alloy with 8% cobalt | N/A | Deeper cup |
| Milwaukee Carbide Hole Cutter Set | Carbide | 4-Piece Set | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of hole saw is best for wood?
For most woodworking tasks, a bi-metal hole saw offers the best balance of durability, speed, and value. Its high-speed steel teeth cut cleanly through wood and resist wear, while the carbon steel body provides strength. For specialized, ultra-clean cuts in hardwoods, carbide-tipped saws are an option, but they are often more expensive and found in smaller sets.
Which brand of hole saw is considered the best?
Brands like DeWalt, Bosch, and Diablo are consistently highly regarded in research and user feedback for their performance and durability in wood. The “best” brand often depends on your priority: DeWalt is praised for deep cuts and plug ejection, Bosch for cutting speed, and Diablo for deep capacity and quick-change features. Exploring top hole saw brands can provide more context on their strengths.
What is the most effective tool for cutting large holes in wood?
For holes larger than 1-1/2 inches in diameter, a hole saw is typically the most effective and cleanest option. It creates a precise, round hole with a smooth wall. For holes up to about 1-1/2 inches, a spade bit is faster but rougher, while a Forstner bit is superior for flat-bottomed, precision holes in finish work. Our resource on drilling large holes in wood details these alternatives.
Are Lenox or Milwaukee hole saws better?
Both are quality brands, but they serve different needs. Lenox kits, like our best compact pick, are known for being lightweight and portable, ideal for service technicians. Milwaukee kits, like our best large kit pick, are often more comprehensive and built for heavy-duty, precise cutting in hard materials. The better choice depends on whether you prioritize a full workshop set or a minimal on-the-go kit.
Can I use a hole saw kit for materials other than wood?
Yes, the bi-metal construction found in most quality kits is designed to cut through wood, plastic, drywall, and thin metals like aluminum or steel. However, dedicated carbide-tipped hole saws are required for abrasive materials like tile, brick, or fiber cement. Always match the tool’s specified material range to your project for safety and the best results.
The Bottom Line
The DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit is a top choice for its durable design that handles thick lumber and its long slots that simplify removing the wood core. It is a reliable option for carpenters and electricians who encounter demanding framing jobs.
If your budget is tight or your projects are lighter, the KATA Hole Saw Kit provides a solid, organized set for common DIY tasks. For the unique challenge of installing recessed lights without making a mess, the VIKITON Hole Saw with Dust Catcher is a specialized solution.
Ultimately, the single most important factor is matching the saw’s cutting depth to your material. A saw that’s too shallow will leave you fighting to complete a simple hole, while the right depth makes the job feel effortless.




