Installing new door hardware or replacing old locks can dramatically enhance your home’s security and aesthetic. The key to a professional-looking installation is having the right tools, and a high-quality door hole saw kit is indispensable. These kits are specifically designed to drill the precise holes required for standard door knobs, deadbolts, and latches, ensuring a perfect fit and smooth operation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, investing in one of the best door hole saw kits can save you time, effort, and frustration, delivering clean, accurate results every time.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Door Hole Saw Kit Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Door Lock Hole Saw Kit for 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 Inch Wooden Doors with Guide Template
This dedicated door lock hole saw kit is engineered for precision when installing or replacing hardware on wooden doors. It’s designed to accommodate door thicknesses from 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inches, which covers most standard residential doors. The inclusion of a U-type adjustable plastic guide template ensures accurate hole placement, making it a favorite for DIY enthusiasts.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 2-1/8” (54mm) and 1” (25mm) hole saws, the standard sizes for door knobs and deadbolts.
- ✓ Features a U-type adjustable plastic guide template for precise and centered drilling.
- ✓ Comes with an arbor and drill bit, providing a complete solution for wooden door installations.
- ✓ Optimized for wooden doors between 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inches thick.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit for its straightforward design and ease of use, making door lock installation accessible even for beginners. The guide template is a game-changer for achieving perfectly aligned holes, preventing costly errors. It’s a reliable and durable option for anyone working exclusively with wooden doors.
Best For
This kit is ideal for homeowners and DIYers who primarily work with wooden doors and need a reliable, easy-to-use solution for installing new locks or replacing existing ones.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to use, even for novices.
- The guide template ensures accurate and centered holes.
- Includes the two most common hole saw sizes for door locks.
- Durable and reliable for frequent use on wooden doors.
Cons:
- Limited to wooden doors only.
- Plastic guide may not be as robust as metal alternatives for heavy professional use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Works as expected. Simple to use. The hole saw is for wooden doors only. If your door is steel, buy the slightly more expensive one.”
Customer Review: “Worked fantastically on my doors i didn’t trust ly husband to keep the holes centred right when drilling our 1958 doors! New locks are different size than old ones all if the new ones making drilling larger holes necessary this was awesome option all xhere done perfect with thus tool!”
2. Milescraft Lock Mate PLUS: Professional Bi-Metal Door Hole Saw Kit for Wood and Metal Doors
The Milescraft Lock Mate PLUS stands out as a versatile and robust solution for both professional installers and serious DIYers. This kit includes bi-metal hole saws capable of cutting through a variety of materials, from wood to metal doors, solid or hollow core. Its innovative self-clamping jig design simplifies the installation process, ensuring accuracy without damaging the door surface.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features a self-clamping jig that secures to the door without screws, preventing surface damage.
- ✓ Includes 2-1/8” and 1” bi-metal, cobalt alloy hole saws for versatile cutting.
- ✓ Saws are designed to cut through both wood and metal doors, including solid and hollow core.
- ✓ Professional-grade construction ensures outstanding durability and reliability for repeated use.
Why We Recommend It
This Milescraft kit is our Editor’s Choice for its exceptional versatility and user-friendly design. The ability to work on both wood and metal doors makes it a highly valuable tool for various projects. The self-clamping mechanism guarantees a secure and accurate setup, which is crucial for perfect door hardware installation.
Best For
Perfect for contractors, remodelers, and advanced DIYers who need a high-performance door hole saw kit capable of handling a wide range of door materials, including both wood and metal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly versatile, suitable for both wood and metal doors.
- Self-clamping jig ensures secure and damage-free operation.
- Bi-metal hole saws offer superior cutting performance and longevity.
- Sturdy metal inserts in the jig enhance durability.
Cons:
- May be overkill for those only working with wooden doors.
- Potentially a higher price point due to its professional features.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The jig clamped securely to the door and made matching the holes a snap. The metal inserts make it feel more sturdy also. The hole saws were of good quality although having used them once I cannot speak to durability. I had to widen the hole for the knob as there was already a knob but no deadbolt o”
Customer Review: “Did the job. Easy to use. Really enjoy using this product. Seems to be built well. I really purchased this for 4 doors, and its still as good as new. The knobs and fit perfect and operated excellent. Definitely recommend if you’re needing to cut door knobs.”
3. Bosch HSBIM9 9 pc. General-Purpose Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
The Bosch HSBIM9 9 pc. General-Purpose Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit offers incredible value, making it our top budget pick. While not exclusively a door lock installation kit, its comprehensive range of sizes and robust bi-metal construction make it highly capable for many tasks, including drilling standard door holes. The spinlock universal arbor system ensures quick and tool-free changes, enhancing efficiency.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ A comprehensive 9-piece kit including six hole saws and two spinlock universal arbors.
- ✓ Features bi-metal hole saws with a progressor tooth design for efficient cutting.
- ✓ Spinlock universal arbor fits all brands and sizes, simplifying diameter changes and plug removal.
- ✓ Steel pilot bit is designed for starting holes accurately in a variety of materials.
Why We Recommend It
For those on a budget or looking for a versatile hole saw set that can handle more than just door locks, the Bosch HSBIM9 is an excellent choice. Its general-purpose nature, combined with Bosch’s reputation for quality, makes it a smart investment. The quick-change arbor system is a significant time-saver, which is highly appreciated during projects.
Best For
Budget-conscious DIYers and general contractors who need a versatile hole saw set for various materials, including occasional door lock installations, beyond specialized door-specific kits.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a comprehensive 9-piece kit.
- Versatile bi-metal saws cut through various materials effectively.
- Spinlock arbor allows for fast, tool-free saw changes and plug removal.
- Known Bosch quality and durability for reliable performance.
Cons:
- Not a dedicated door lock installation kit; lacks a specific door jig.
- The set screw on the arbor may be less durable under extreme force (e.g., impact gun).
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Used these on some plywood and drywall, worked very well. Easy to use, sharp, and effective. Bosch is great and trustworthy and this purchase is another example of that. Good luck!”
Customer Review: “This is a great set of hole saws. My only complaint is the set screw broke on mine midway through the job. However I was using them with an impact gun and likely far exceeded what the set screw was designed to handle. (cutting a rubber bushing out of metal sleeve). I can still use the saws, just nee”
4. Milwaukee Door Lock and Deadbolt Kit: 1-3/8″-1-3/4″ Hole Saw, Auto-Centering Guide, Clamp
The Milwaukee Door Lock and Deadbolt Kit is a premium solution for installing or upgrading door hardware with precision and speed. Renowned for its durable tools, Milwaukee delivers a kit featuring Ice Hardened hole saws and an auto-centering drill guide. This kit simplifies the often-tricky process of preparing doors for locksets and deadbolts, ensuring clean cuts and a professional finish.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes an auto-centering drill guide and clamp for accurate, hands-free operation.
- ✓ Features 2-1/8″ and 1″ Ice Hardened Hole Saws, engineered for extreme durability and cutting speed.
- ✓ Equipped with an anti-splinter depth stop to prevent damage to the door surface.
- ✓ Streamlined plug removal via an access slot, making cleanup quick and easy.
- ✓ Designed for door thicknesses between 1-3/8″ and 1-3/4″.
Why We Recommend It
Milwaukee’s reputation for rugged, high-performance tools shines in this door lock installation kit. The Ice Hardened hole saws promise longevity and efficiency, while the auto-centering guide and anti-splinter depth stop ensure flawless results. It’s a complete, professional-grade package that minimizes effort and maximizes precision for any lock installation project.
Best For
Professionals and serious DIYers who prioritize durability, speed, and precision in their door hardware installation tools and are willing to invest in a top-tier brand.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ice Hardened hole saws offer exceptional durability and cutting performance.
- Auto-centering guide ensures perfect alignment every time.
- Anti-splinter depth stop protects door surfaces from damage.
- Efficient plug removal feature speeds up the process.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic kits.
- Primarily specialized for door locks, less versatile for other hole-cutting needs.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Worked perfectly allowed me to cut out a new hole in the door and install a deadbolt wonderful tool definitely recommend.”
Customer Review: “I used this to enlarge the holes in the interior doors in my house so I could fit new hardware. I am a do-it-yourselfer who has never worked on doors before. This tool made it easy from the first use. The hole saws are good quality and went right through old, solid core doors. Note: you may nee”
5. Milescraft 7301 Door Hole Saw Kit: Self-Clamping Jig, Bi-Metal Saws for Locks, Knobs, and Hinges.
The Milescraft 7301 Door Hole Saw Kit is another excellent offering from Milescraft, featuring their renowned self-clamping jig technology. This kit is designed for hassle-free installation of locks, knobs, and even hinges, with bi-metal saws capable of handling various door materials. The self-clamping jig eliminates the need for screws, ensuring your door surfaces remain pristine during the installation process.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features a self-clamping lock and knob jig that requires no screws, preventing door surface damage.
- ✓ Includes 2-1/8” and 1” bi-metal, cobalt hole saws, suitable for multiple door types.
- ✓ The jig is designed for versatility, aiding in the installation of locks, knobs, and hinges.
- ✓ Ensures accurate and clean holes for a professional finish.
Why We Recommend It
The Milescraft 7301 is a solid choice for its self-clamping jig, which makes door preparation incredibly easy and damage-free. The bi-metal saws are a significant advantage, offering the ability to work with various door compositions. It’s a reliable and efficient kit for anyone looking for precise, clean cuts without the hassle.
Best For
DIYers and property managers looking for an all-in-one solution for installing various door hardware, including locks, knobs, and hinges, on a variety of door materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Self-clamping jig ensures no damage to door surfaces.
- Bi-metal saws offer versatility for cutting different materials.
- Designed for installing multiple types of door hardware.
- Easy to set up and use for accurate hole drilling.
Cons:
- Does not include actual hinges, knobs, or locks.
- May require additional templates for less common striker plate installations.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I normally don’t write reviews but I felt compelled to after customer service helped me locate a template specific to my needs (oddball striker) for this jig. This worked perfect for me doing a little DIY project adding a dead bolt to a door with no holes for one! customer service was amazing, i wou”
Customer Review: “I normally don’t write reviews but I felt compelled to after customer service helped me locate a template specific to my needs (oddball striker) for this jig. This worked perfect for me doing a little DIY project adding a dead bolt to a door with no holes for one! customer service was amazing, i wou”
Complete Buying Guide for Door Hole Saw Kit
Choosing the best door hole saw kit involves considering several factors to ensure you get a tool that meets your specific needs. A well-chosen kit will not only make your door hardware installations easier but also guarantee a professional, secure finish.
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating a door hole saw kit, material compatibility is paramount. Will you be working on wooden doors, metal doors, or a mix of both? Bi-metal hole saws are often the most versatile, capable of cutting through various materials. You’ll also want to check the included hole saw sizes; standard door locks typically require a 2-1/8 inch hole for the main body and a 1-inch hole for the latch bolt. A robust and accurate jig or guide system is crucial for preventing crooked holes and splintering. Look for features like self-centering, self-clamping, and adjustable backsets. Finally, consider the overall durability of the kit. High-quality materials like cobalt alloy in bi-metal saws and sturdy jig construction will ensure longevity and consistent performance.
Budget Planning
The cost of a door hole saw kit can vary widely depending on its features, brand, and included accessories. Basic kits, often geared towards occasional DIY use on wooden doors, are more affordable. Mid-range kits offer better versatility with bi-metal saws and more advanced jigs, suitable for frequent DIYers or light professional use. High-end, professional-grade kits from brands like Milwaukee typically come with premium materials, superior durability, and specialized features, justifying a higher price tag. When planning your budget, consider how often you’ll use the kit and the types of doors you’ll be working on. Investing a little more upfront for a durable, versatile kit can save money and frustration in the long run by avoiding the need for replacements or specialized tools.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best door hole saw kit for you depends on your specific projects and preferences. For strictly wooden doors, a simpler kit with a reliable guide template might suffice. If you’re tackling various door materials, a bi-metal kit with a sturdy, self-clamping jig is a worthwhile investment. Always prioritize accuracy, ease of use, and durability to ensure your door lock installations are secure and aesthetically pleasing. With the right kit, you can confidently upgrade your home’s security and appearance with professional results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size hole saw do I need for a standard door lock?
A: For standard door locks and deadbolts, you typically need two sizes: a 2-1/8 inch (54mm) hole saw for the main lock body or knob, and a 1 inch (25mm) hole saw for the latch bolt that goes into the door edge.
Q: Can I use a door hole saw kit on metal doors?
A: Yes, but only if the kit includes bi-metal or cobalt alloy hole saws. These types of saws are designed with hardened teeth that can cut through various metals, unlike standard carbon steel saws which are only suitable for wood.
Q: Is a guide template necessary for installing door locks?
A: While not strictly mandatory, a guide template (also known as a jig) is highly recommended. It ensures accurate, straight, and properly aligned holes, preventing errors, splintering, and making the installation process much easier and more professional. It’s especially useful for beginners.
Q: How do I prevent wood splintering when drilling door holes?
A: To prevent splintering, use a sharp hole saw, a reliable guide template, and drill slowly. It’s also effective to drill from one side until the pilot bit breaks through, then finish drilling from the opposite side. Placing a sacrificial piece of wood firmly clamped behind the door where the pilot bit will exit can also help.
Q: What is the ideal door thickness for these kits?
A: Most door hole saw kits are designed for standard door thicknesses ranging from 1-3/8 inches to 1-3/4 inches, which covers the majority of residential and many commercial doors. Always check the kit’s specifications to ensure compatibility with your specific door thickness.
Selecting the right door hole saw kit is a critical step in achieving flawless and secure door hardware installations. Our expert reviews and detailed buying guide aim to provide you with all the information needed to make an informed decision. Remember to consider your door material, desired accuracy, and budget to find the perfect kit for your needs. Don’t settle for less when it comes to home security and aesthetics. Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to explore these top-rated door hole saw kits and make your purchase today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
