A reliable hole saw kit is an indispensable tool for both professional tradespeople and dedicated DIY enthusiasts. Whether you’re tackling plumbing installations, electrical wiring, HVAC work, or intricate woodworking projects, having the right set of hole saws ensures clean, precise cuts through various materials like wood, metal, plastic, and drywall. This comprehensive guide reviews some of the best hole saw kits on the market, highlighting their key features, benefits, and ideal applications to help you make an informed decision for your next project. We’ve rigorously tested and evaluated each kit to bring you expert recommendations that combine performance, durability, and value.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Hole Saw Kit Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Milwaukee Hole Dozer BI-Metal Hole Saw Kit, 17-Piece Set for Professional Material Cutting.
The Milwaukee Hole Dozer BI-Metal Hole Saw Kit is a top-tier option designed for professionals who demand precision and durability. This 17-piece set offers a comprehensive range of sizes, making it suitable for a wide array of applications in plumbing, electrical, and general construction. Its advanced features ensure fast cutting and efficient plug removal, setting it apart as a premium choice.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 17 hole saw blades in 9 popular sizes from 3/4″ to 2-1/2″ for versatile use.
- ✓ Features Rip Guard teeth, an exceptionally strong tooth form with added steel for extended life.
- ✓ Innovative Plug Jack provides an all-access slot design for quick and tool-free plug removal.
- ✓ Bi-metal construction delivers superior cutting performance and long-lasting sharpness across various materials.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Milwaukee Hole Dozer kit for its unparalleled durability and user-friendly features. The Rip Guard teeth are a significant upgrade, ensuring these saws can withstand rigorous use without premature wear. The Plug Jack system is a game-changer, eliminating the frustration of stuck material and saving valuable time on the job site.
Best For
This kit is ideal for professional electricians, plumbers, and general contractors who require a robust and reliable hole saw set for daily heavy-duty material cutting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability with Rip Guard teeth for extended blade life.
- Efficient plug removal system (Plug Jack) significantly speeds up work.
- Wide range of common sizes included in the 17-piece kit.
- High-quality bi-metal construction ensures clean, fast cuts.
Cons:
- Premium price point might be a barrier for budget-conscious users.
- Storage box quality (as noted by some users) could be improved.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: The Milwaukee hole saws are the quality I expect from Milwaukee brand. Very good. Little red box they came, not so great. I’ll be making my own storage box. Box notwithstanding, I would order again.
Customer Review: I love these, all different sizes the fit on any drill, doesn’t matter the brand. I used them to put holes in the bottom on plastic pumpkins that i then put on the solar lights in front of my home for Halloween. I have gotten so many compliments they look so cute at night when they light up. You
2. Bosch 9-Piece Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit: Durable and Versatile for All Projects
The Bosch 9-Piece Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit offers a compact yet powerful solution for a variety of drilling tasks. Known for Bosch’s commitment to quality, this kit provides excellent durability and versatility, making it a reliable choice for both general use and specific project needs. Its smart design elements simplify operation and improve overall efficiency.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ All-in-one kit featuring two spinlock universal arbors, a steel pilot bit, and six hole saws.
- ✓ Progressor tooth design for fast, clean cuts in multiple materials.
- ✓ Spinlock Universal Arbor simplifies diameter changes and enables fast, tool-free plug removal.
- ✓ The pilot bit is designed for quick starts in a variety of materials including wood, plywood, and drywall.
Why We Recommend It
Bosch’s reputation for quality shines in this bi-metal hole saw kit. The progressor tooth design ensures smooth, efficient cutting, while the Spinlock Universal Arbor is a standout feature for its ease of use and quick plug ejection. It’s a well-rounded kit that offers great value and performance for everyday tasks.
Best For
This kit is excellent for DIY enthusiasts, general contractors, and homeowners needing a versatile and dependable hole saw set for various home improvement and renovation projects.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Universal arbor system for easy saw changes and compatibility.
- Progressor tooth design ensures efficient and smooth cutting.
- Durable bi-metal construction offers good longevity.
- Known brand reliability from Bosch.
Cons:
- Fewer sizes compared to larger kits.
- Set screw on arbor may be vulnerable under extreme impact gun use.
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
3. Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit, HYCHIKA 17 Pcs High Speed Steel 3/4″ to 2
The HYCHIKA 17 Pcs Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit stands out as an excellent value option, providing a comprehensive set of hole saws without breaking the bank. Made from high-speed bi-metal steel, this kit is designed for efficient and precise cutting through various common materials. It’s a great choice for those needing a wide range of sizes for occasional or light-to-medium duty tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Bi-metal construction with high hardness (69~81HRC) and high strength for durability.
- ✓ Optimized tooth design for higher cutting efficiency and cleaner, smoother cuts.
- ✓ Generous 17-piece kit including 11 hole saw blades from 19mm (3/4″) to 68mm (2.68″).
- ✓ Maximum cutting depth of 45mm, suitable for common applications.
Why We Recommend It
For its price, the HYCHIKA kit delivers impressive performance and a wide selection of sizes. The bi-metal material and optimized teeth ensure decent cutting capabilities for most DIY and light professional tasks. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking for a comprehensive hole saw kit on a budget.
Best For
This kit is best for DIYers, hobbyists, and those with occasional professional needs who want a versatile and affordable bi-metal hole saw kit for wood, plastic, and thin metal applications.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money with 17 pieces included.
- Bi-metal construction offers good durability and cutting performance.
- Wide range of sizes covers most common hole-cutting needs.
- Optimized tooth design for cleaner cuts.
Cons:
- May not hold up as well as premium brands for continuous heavy-duty use.
- Accessories might be of lesser quality than industrial-grade kits.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I bought these to use with my tubing notcher. I made multiple notches in some schedule 40 pipe and the hole saw is still sharp and performed better than expected for what I paid for the set. Glad I found this set to have multiple sizes for different projects in the future. They look and feel to be t
Customer Review: I bought this hole saw set for my husband because he needed it for a project, and it worked perfectly. The quality feels solid, and it cuts smoothly through wood and other materials. It was exactly what he needed and made the job much easier. Very satisfied with this purchase.
4. Milwaukee BIG HAWG 10-Piece Hole Saw Kit with Durable Carbide Teeth for Heavy-Duty Use
For those demanding extreme power and longevity, the Milwaukee BIG HAWG 10-Piece Hole Saw Kit is a standout choice. Featuring durable carbide teeth, this kit is engineered for heavy-duty applications, making quick work of tough materials including wood with nails, plaster, and cement board. It’s built for professionals who face challenging cutting tasks regularly.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features carbide teeth for superior durability and cutting speed through tough materials.
- ✓ Designed for heavy-duty use, capable of cutting through wood, wood with nails, cement board, and plaster.
- ✓ Comes as a 10-piece set with essential sizes for common professional tasks.
- ✓ Long-lasting performance, offering outstanding durability and reliability in demanding environments.
Why We Recommend It
The Milwaukee BIG HAWG kit is a beast when it comes to tackling difficult materials. The carbide teeth are incredibly robust, providing a clean and fast cut even through embedded nails, which often stops other hole saws in their tracks. This is an investment that pays off in saved time and reduced frustration on tough jobs.
Best For
This kit is best for plumbers, electricians, and remodelers who frequently encounter challenging materials like wood with nails, stucco, or fiber cement board.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable carbide teeth for aggressive cutting.
- Exceptional performance on tough materials including wood with nails.
- Fast cutting speed, reducing overall job time.
- Built for professional, heavy-duty applications.
Cons:
- Higher price point due to specialized carbide construction.
- Less suitable for delicate work on softer materials.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I hated to spend the money, but easily justified because I did my own Plumbing which probably saved thousands of dollars for a small cabin project. These whole bits make quick work through lumber and nails.
Customer Review: I hated to spend the money, but easily justified because I did my own Plumbing which probably saved thousands of dollars for a small cabin project. These whole bits make quick work through lumber and nails.Read more
5. Best Hole Saw Kit with 3/4-6 Inch Blades for Wood, Plywood, Drywall, PVC
This “Best Hole Saw Kit” offers an impressive range of sizes, particularly excelling in larger diameters often needed for speaker installations, ductwork, or recessed lighting. With its 13-piece set ranging from 3/4-inch to a substantial 6-inch, this kit is designed to provide versatility for cutting through softer materials like wood, plywood, drywall, and PVC. It’s a great comprehensive set for specific large-diameter needs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Essential 13-piece hole saw blades with sizes from 3/4″ (19 mm) up to a large 6″ (152 mm).
- ✓ Made of heat-treated carbon steel with black coating for rust-proof and wear-resistant properties.
- ✓ Includes essential accessories: 2 mandrels/arbor, 3 drill bits, hex key wrench, and installation plate for easy setup.
- ✓ Ideal for cutting through wood, plywood, drywall, and PVC with smooth results.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit primarily for its extensive range of sizes, especially the larger saws up to 6 inches, which are not typically found in standard bi-metal kits. The carbon steel construction is well-suited for softer materials, providing clean cuts for specific applications like speaker installations or pipe routing. It offers excellent value for a wide size range.
Best For
This kit is ideal for audio installers, DIY speaker builders, HVAC technicians, and homeowners needing a comprehensive set for cutting larger holes in wood, drywall, and PVC.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely wide range of sizes, including very large diameters (up to 6 inches).
- Effective for softer materials like wood, plywood, drywall, and PVC.
- Comes with all necessary accessories for quick setup and use.
- Cost-effective solution for comprehensive size requirements.
Cons:
- Carbon steel is less durable than bi-metal for harder materials or continuous use.
- Limited cutting depth (up to 1 inch) may not suit all projects.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I recently started building speakers, and I needed some hole saws of varying sizes in order to cut out the holes. This kit has a wide range of hole sizes and extra guide bits. It works great. The thickness of material that these hole saws can cut is limited to 1″, but that is completely fine for the
Customer Review: Purchased this kit mainly for a 6″ hole saw we needed to cut holes to route a 6″ pipe from our stove hood to the roof. The narrow depth of this hole saw is perfect for fitting between the shelves in the cabinet above the stove, giving enough clearance to cut all 4 holes we needed from the hood to th
Complete Buying Guide for Hole Saw Kit
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the best hole saw kit involves evaluating several critical factors to ensure you get a set that perfectly matches your needs. We consider the material compatibility of the saws – whether they are designed for wood, metal, plastic, drywall, or even more abrasive materials like tile or masonry. The size range within the kit is crucial, as projects can vary from small conduit openings to large duct holes. The arbor system plays a significant role in ease of use, with quick-change or universal arbors being highly desirable. Durability is paramount, with bi-metal saws offering good versatility and carbide-tipped saws providing extreme longevity for tough jobs. Finally, features like easy plug removal and a sturdy storage case enhance the user experience and protect your investment.
Budget Planning
When budgeting for a hole saw kit, it’s important to balance cost with anticipated usage and material types. Entry-level carbon steel kits are very affordable and suitable for occasional use on soft materials. Mid-range bi-metal hole saw kits offer a great balance of versatility and durability for most homeowners and DIYers. For professionals or those tackling very tough materials regularly, investing in a premium carbide hole saw kit, while more expensive upfront, will save money and time in the long run due to superior performance and extended tool life. Consider the number of pieces in the kit, as more specialized sizes or arbors can increase the price.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best hole saw kit for you depends on your specific projects and frequency of use. For general home improvements and versatile applications, a high-quality bi-metal kit like the Milwaukee Hole Dozer or Bosch set offers excellent value. If your work involves cutting large holes in softer materials, the comprehensive 3/4-6 inch kit is a great pick. For heavy-duty tasks involving embedded nails or abrasive materials, the Milwaukee BIG HAWG with carbide teeth is an indispensable tool. By considering these factors, you can confidently select a kit that will serve you well for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are hole saws used for?
A: Hole saws are primarily used to cut perfectly round holes in various materials, larger than what a standard drill bit can achieve. Common applications include installing door locks, routing pipes and electrical conduits, cutting holes for recessed lighting, creating openings for vents, and making speaker cutouts.
Q: What’s the difference between bi-metal and carbide hole saws?
A: Bi-metal hole saws combine two types of metal (typically high-speed steel teeth bonded to a flexible alloy back) making them versatile for cutting wood, plastic, and various metals. Carbide hole saws feature carbide teeth, which are much harder and more resistant to heat and abrasion, making them ideal for tough materials like stainless steel, tile, masonry, fiberglass, and wood with nails.
Q: How do I choose the right size hole saw?
A: The correct hole saw size depends entirely on your specific application. For plumbing, you’ll need sizes that match pipe diameters; for electrical work, sizes that accommodate conduit or junction boxes. Always measure the item you need to fit through the hole and select a hole saw with a slightly larger diameter to allow for clearance.
Q: How can I prevent my hole saw from binding or overheating?
A: To prevent binding, ensure you’re using the correct drill speed for the material (slower for harder materials) and apply consistent, moderate pressure. To avoid overheating, especially when cutting metal, use a cutting lubricant or allow the saw to cool down periodically. Clearing debris from the cut frequently also helps, and some hole saws feature design elements specifically for easier plug removal to prevent buildup.
Q: Do all hole saws fit on any drill?
A: Most hole saws require an arbor, which is the shaft that connects the saw to your drill chuck. While many arbors are universal, it’s essential to ensure that the arbor’s threading or mounting system is compatible with your chosen hole saw and that the arbor’s shank size fits your drill chuck. Some kits come with universal arbors, while others may require specific arbors.
Selecting the best hole saw kit is a crucial decision for anyone serious about their craft or home improvement projects. Our in-depth reviews have highlighted options ranging from versatile bi-metal sets to heavy-duty carbide kits, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every need and budget. We encourage you to evaluate your common tasks and material types, then choose the kit that promises precision, durability, and ease of use. Ready to make your next cut? Check out our top recommendations and upgrade your toolkit 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.
