Finding the best hole saw for plastic can be a game-changer for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you’re working with PVC pipes, acrylic sheets, polycarbonate, or other types of plastic, having the right tool ensures precise, clean cuts without melting or cracking the material. A specialized plastic hole saw is designed to minimize friction and heat buildup, leading to smoother edges and less material waste. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top contenders, highlighting their unique features to help you make an informed decision for your next project requiring effortless cutting plastic.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Hole Saw For Plastic Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 6-3/4 inch (172mm) Tungsten Carbide Tipped Hole Saw, Ideal for Plastic Cutting
This 6-3/4 inch (172mm) tungsten carbide tipped hole saw is a top-tier choice for demanding plastic cutting applications. Its robust construction and intelligent design ensure exceptional quality and consistent performance, making it a favorite for professionals. The generous diameter allows for large-scale projects, delivering clean cuts in plastic every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Features 39 precisely crafted teeth for significantly faster and more efficient cutting.
- ✓ Generous cutting diameter of 172mm (6-3/4″) suitable for various large plastic projects.
- ✓ Constructed from high-quality TCT Carbide (Tungsten Carbide Tipped Cutters) for superior durability.
- ✓ Titanium-plated cemented carbide teeth enhance wear resistance and longevity.
- ✓ Standard 10mm (3/8″) shank diameter ensures compatibility with most drills.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this hole saw for its outstanding cutting speed and the impeccable finish it leaves on plastic. The combination of numerous TCT teeth and high-grade materials makes it incredibly durable, capable of handling frequent use across various plastic types without premature dulling. It’s truly a reliable tool for achieving smooth edges.
Best For
This hole saw is best for professionals and serious DIYers needing large diameter holes in various plastics, including thick sheets, containers, and PVC pipe, where speed and a consistently clean finish are paramount.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional cutting speed due to the high tooth count.
- Delivers very clean and accurate holes with smooth edges.
- Highly durable TCT carbide construction ensures long lifespan.
- Versatile for a wide range of plastic materials and thicknesses.
Cons:
- Larger size might be overkill for smaller, more delicate plastic work.
- Premium material and design could place it at a higher price point.
- Requires a powerful drill to maintain optimal performance due to its size.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I used these to cut a couple dozen holes in stainless steel 16 gauge and this hole saw performed phenomenally. The holes were accurate and smooth finish with no jagged edges. Price is extremely cheap but the quality is definitely not!”
Customer Review: “These pilot bits are a great deal and totally legit. At an electrical supply house, you’d pay around $20 for just one, so this was a no-brainer. They’re a bit long for the 1/2” and 3/4” carbide hole cutters, but they fit the 1” perfectly but they still work fine for the smaller sizes. Definitely worth it for the quality.”
2. Dry Diamond Hole Saw Set for Hard Plastic, Ceramic, Granite, and Glass
This dry diamond hole saw set is engineered for unparalleled performance when cutting through hard and brittle materials, including tough plastics. The inclusion of wax inside each bit significantly aids in cooling and lubrication, extending the life of the saw and ensuring consistent cuts. Its multi-purpose design makes it a versatile addition to any toolkit, guaranteeing outstanding durability and reliability.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Diamond-tipped drill bits designed for superior performance on hard materials.
- ✓ Integrated wax core provides internal cooling and lubrication, enhancing bit longevity.
- ✓ Multi-purpose drilling for granite, marble, masonry, concrete, tile, glass, and hard plastic.
- ✓ Special design with holes and grooves to facilitate efficient debris removal.
- ✓ Round shank for compatibility with a wide range of standard drills.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this diamond hole saw set for its exceptional versatility and ability to tackle extremely hard plastics and other challenging materials with ease. The innovative wax cooling system is particularly effective for achieving clean, non-melting cuts in dense plastics, making it an indispensable tool for specialized applications.
Best For
This set is best for users who frequently work with very hard plastics like acrylic or polycarbonate, as well as brittle materials such as glass, ceramic, and granite, where precision and material integrity are critical.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excels in cutting hard and brittle materials that other saws struggle with.
- Internal wax core provides effective cooling and extends tool life.
- Highly versatile for a broad range of applications beyond just plastic.
- Delivers clean and precise holes without chipping or cracking.
Cons:
- Requires slower drilling speeds compared to traditional hole saws for softer plastics.
- Might be an overkill investment if only cutting soft, thin plastics.
- Optimal performance often requires external water cooling in addition to the wax.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These worked well drilling through 1/2 ” tile, 1 bit worked great for 6 holes before I changed out for a new one. I would say these hold up pretty well, are well made and worth the money. Go slow and keep water to it and they will last for a good amount of boring holes. I did use a smaller pilot to ensure accuracy.”
Customer Review: “Excellent quality. I was able to drill 8 holes in 3/8 porcelain tile to install a shower door. The first drill bit lasted 7 holes and went through the porcelain very easily. To keep the heat down, a second person was spraying a small stream of water with a garden sprayer. I highly recommend these.”
Customer Review: “These worked well drilling through 1/2 ” tile, 1 bit worked great for 6 holes before I changed out for a new one. I would say these hold up pretty well, are well made and worth the money. Go slow and keep water to it and they will last for a good amount of boring holes. I did use a smaller pilot to ensure accuracy.”
Customer Review: “Excellent quality. I was able to drill 8 holes in 3/8 porcelain tile to install a shower door. The first drill bit lasted 7 holes and went through the porcelain very easily. To keep the heat down, a second person was spraying a small stream of water with a garden sprayer. I highly recommend these.”
3. Top-rated 4.5-inch Bi-Metal Hole Saw with Pilot Bit for clean plastic cuts.
This 4.5-inch bi-metal hole saw stands out for its reliability and precision, especially when creating clean plastic cuts. Equipped with a pilot bit, it ensures accurate hole placement from the start, making projects quicker and error-free. Crafted from high-speed steel, it promises enhanced durability and excellent wear resistance for consistent performance on various materials.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sharp high-speed steel cutting teeth efficiently cut through plastic, wood, and light metals.
- ✓ Integrated pilot bit ensures accurate hole centering, preventing wandering.
- ✓ Made from premium high-speed steel for superior hardness, toughness, and wear resistance.
- ✓ Automatic hole clearing mechanism: a spring on the drill bit pushes out the cut disc.
- ✓ Equipped with a chip removal design for cleaner operation and longer tool life.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this bi-metal hole saw for its excellent value and consistent performance across a variety of materials, particularly plastics. The thoughtful design, including the pilot bit for precision and the automatic disc ejection, makes it user-friendly and efficient, delivering notably smooth edges for plastic cuts.
Best For
This hole saw is ideal for DIYers and contractors looking for a versatile, cost-effective solution for cutting holes in various materials including plastic, wood, and drywall, where clean and precise results are desired without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for its performance and durability.
- Pilot bit ensures precise and centered drilling.
- Effective chip removal system keeps the work area cleaner.
- Suitable for multiple materials, increasing its versatility.
Cons:
- Bi-metal construction might heat up more than carbide on very hard plastics.
- Not designed for heavy-duty metal cutting compared to specialized saws.
- Depth of cut might be limited for very thick plastic materials.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this for a project that required a hole the same size as this saw. I wanted to cut a hole into a piece of trim and reinstall it in the interior of my Tacoma truck. This did a perfect job. The drill bit in the middle of the hole saw helped me center perfectly the first time. If I did not have it, it would have been harder.”
Customer Review: “I used this to cut a 4” hole for a ventilation fan in my chicken coop. Worked fabulously. Extremely solid product. Fit my drill with an adapter, easy to use. Would buy again but I probably don’t need to because it’s a great quality product.”
4. Tungsten Carbide TCT Hole Saws for Plastic, Metal, Wood, and Stainless Steel
This upgraded Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT) hole saw kit is designed for unparalleled versatility and durability across a wide array of materials, including various types of plastic, metal, wood, and even stainless steel. Its high hardness TCT carbide construction prevents rust and fracture, significantly extending its service life. The thoughtful addition of a spring on the drill bit minimizes bounce, ensuring stability and precision for flawless cuts.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Constructed from high-hardness TCT Carbide for exceptional longevity and resistance to wear.
- ✓ Integrated spring on the drill bit reduces bounce and vibration for stable, precise drilling.
- ✓ Versatile application across plastic, wood, metal, and even tough stainless steel.
- ✓ Reinforced tooth structure enhances cutting efficiency and durability on diverse materials.
- ✓ Designed to resist rust and fracture, ensuring consistent high performance over time.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this TCT hole saw for its superior strength and incredible versatility. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who works with a mix of materials and needs a reliable tool that won’t dull quickly. The added stability from the spring mechanism ensures more accurate and safer cutting, which is crucial for achieving high-quality results in plastic.
Best For
This hole saw is ideal for fabricators, plumbers, electricians, and advanced DIYers who regularly switch between cutting plastic, wood, and various metals, demanding a single, robust solution that delivers precise, clean holes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable TCT carbide teeth for extended lifespan.
- Highly versatile for cutting multiple material types with one tool.
- Minimizes vibration and bounce for more stable and accurate drilling.
- Resistant to rust and fracture, making it a reliable long-term investment.
Cons:
- May require a slower speed setting for delicate or thin plastic to prevent melting.
- Initial cost might be higher than basic bi-metal options.
- Specific sizes might need individual purchase, as it’s not always sold in full sets.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Impressive! Now my project involved aluminum – so not a special challenge – but I wanted clean cuts to insert gromets for accessory wiring throughout my truck. Plan carefully because when you start these they cut like a hot knife through butter. I inserted a sponge in the cup for holding lubricant and it worked perfectly.”
Customer Review: “I use the hole saws to cut through heavyweight conduits for electrical service tie ins. They cut thru heavyweight wall conduit like it was nothing. I’m really pleased with how they perform on tough materials.”
5. Hole Saw Set with 3/4 to 6 Inch Blades, Optimized for Plastic and PVC
This comprehensive hole saw set offers an excellent range of blades from 3/4″ to 6 inches, specifically optimized for effortless plastic and PVC cutting. Crafted from heat-treated carbon steel, these saws boast rust-proof and wear-resistant properties, ensuring long-lasting performance. The kit includes all necessary accessories like mandrels, drill bits, and a hex key, making setup and operation simple and efficient.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extensive 13-piece set with common sizes ranging from 3/4″ (19 mm) to 6″ (152 mm).
- ✓ Optimized design for smooth, clean cuts in various types of plastic and PVC.
- ✓ Blades made from durable, heat-treated carbon steel for enhanced toughness.
- ✓ Black coating with oil provides rust-proof and wear-resistant properties.
- ✓ Includes essential accessories: 2 mandrels, 3 drill bits, 1 hex key, and an installation plate.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this hole saw kit as a superb all-in-one solution for anyone needing a variety of hole sizes for plastic work. Its carbon steel construction is durable, and the included accessories simplify the process, making it a highly practical choice for both beginners and experienced users tackling multiple projects involving PVC pipe and other plastics.
Best For
This set is perfect for home renovators, plumbers, and DIYers who need a versatile selection of hole saw sizes for projects involving plastic and PVC, offering great value and convenience in one package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide range of sizes in one comprehensive kit.
- Specifically optimized for clean cuts in plastic and PVC.
- Durable heat-treated carbon steel construction.
- Includes all necessary mandrels and drill bits, offering great value.
Cons:
- Carbon steel may not be as long-lasting as TCT for extremely abrasive plastics.
- Max cutting depth is typically limited, generally to 1 inch.
- Not ideal for cutting harder materials like thick metals or ceramics.
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 wood I’m using.”
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 the roof. It worked perfectly for our PVC pipe.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Hole Saw For Plastic
Choosing the best hole saw for plastic can prevent frustrating mishaps like melted edges, cracks, or inaccurate holes. A dedicated plastic hole saw is engineered to deliver superior results compared to general-purpose saws. Here’s what you need to consider before making your purchase to ensure you get clean cuts in plastic every time.
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting a hole saw for cutting plastic, several key factors come into play:
- Material Compatibility: Not all plastics are created equal. Soft plastics (like some PVC or polyethylene) require different tooth configurations than hard plastics (like acrylic or polycarbonate). For softer plastics, fewer, sharper teeth at a positive rake angle can prevent melting. For harder, more brittle plastics, diamond-tipped or carbide-tipped saws with a higher tooth count might be better. Always check if the saw is rated for the specific type of plastic you’ll be cutting.
- Tooth Design and Count: A crucial element for smooth edges. Hole saws with fewer, larger teeth tend to cut faster but can leave rougher edges or melt softer plastics due to heat buildup. Many teeth with a fine pitch (like those found on bi-metal or TCT saws) often provide cleaner cuts, especially if you can control the drilling speed. For very hard or brittle plastics, diamond grit edges are superior.
- Durability and Material:
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) / Bi-Metal: Good for general-purpose plastic, wood, and light metal. Affordable and widely available.
- Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT): Offers superior durability and heat resistance, ideal for harder plastics, fiberglass, and even some metals. Provides faster and cleaner cuts.
- Diamond Grit: Best for extremely hard and abrasive materials like ceramic, glass, stone, and very dense plastics (e.g., thick acrylic), where exceptional precision and no chipping are required. They generate less heat and produce minimal friction.
- Size and Depth: Ensure the hole saw’s diameter matches the size of the hole you need. Also, check the cutting depth to ensure it can penetrate the thickness of your plastic material. Many saws have a standard cutting depth, but some are extended for thicker workpieces.
- Arbor and Shank Compatibility: Verify that the hole saw’s arbor (the shaft that connects the saw to the drill) is compatible with your drill chuck size. Most come with standard hex or round shanks. A quick-change arbor system can save time if you’re frequently switching sizes.
- Heat Management: Plastic is prone to melting when cut at high speeds, leading to gumming up the saw and poor finishes. Look for saws designed to minimize heat or be prepared to use cooling methods (like water spray or cutting fluid). Some diamond saws have built-in wax for this purpose.
Budget Planning
Your budget will often dictate the type of plastic hole saw you can acquire. Basic bi-metal sets are very affordable and suitable for occasional light plastic work. Mid-range TCT saws offer a significant step up in durability and performance for more frequent use and harder plastics. High-end diamond-tipped saws, while more expensive, are an investment for specialized applications involving very hard or abrasive materials, where their precision and longevity justify the cost. Consider a multi-purpose kit if you need various sizes, as buying a set is usually more cost-effective than individual saws.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best hole saw for plastic depends heavily on the specific types of plastic you’ll be cutting, the frequency of use, and your budget. Prioritize a saw with the correct tooth design and material for your primary plastic types, ensuring it can manage heat effectively to produce smooth edges. Investing in a quality tool will save you time, reduce material waste, and lead to more professional-looking results in all your plastic fabrication projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a regular wood hole saw for plastic?
A: While you can technically use a wood hole saw for some soft plastics, it’s generally not recommended for achieving the best results. Wood hole saws often have aggressive teeth designed to quickly remove wood fibers, which can cause plastic to melt, chip, or produce rough, jagged edges due to excessive friction and heat. A dedicated plastic hole saw or one designed for multi-materials with fine teeth and good chip clearance is preferred for cleaner cuts and less material damage.
Q: How do I prevent plastic from melting when cutting with a hole saw?
A: To prevent plastic from melting, you should use a slower drill speed, apply light and consistent pressure, and use a hole saw with appropriate tooth geometry (often finer teeth work better). For thicker or harder plastics, consider using a coolant like water or cutting fluid. Some diamond hole saws even have integrated wax to help with cooling and lubrication.
Q: What’s the difference between a bi-metal and a TCT hole saw for plastic?
A: A bi-metal hole saw has a high-speed steel (HSS) cutting edge welded to a flexible alloy steel body. They are versatile and good for general-purpose cutting of plastic, wood, and light metals. A Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT) hole saw has individual carbide teeth brazed onto the body. TCT saws are significantly harder, more heat-resistant, and more durable, making them ideal for cutting harder plastics, abrasive materials, and even stainless steel with cleaner, faster cuts.
Q: Do I need a pilot bit for cutting plastic with a hole saw?
A: Yes, a pilot bit is highly recommended, if not essential, for cutting plastic with a hole saw. It guides the center of the hole saw, preventing it from wandering and ensuring an accurate starting point. This is especially important for maintaining precision and achieving a clean, centered hole in plastic materials.
Q: How do I clean a hole saw after cutting plastic?
A: If plastic melts and gums up the teeth of your hole saw, wait for it to cool down and solidify. Then, you can often chip off the hardened plastic using a small screwdriver, a utility knife, or a wire brush. For persistent residue, a plastic-safe solvent (test in an inconspicuous area first) might be used, followed by rinsing. Regular cleaning will maintain the saw’s cutting efficiency.
Choosing the right hole saw for plastic is crucial for achieving professional-grade results on your projects. From intricate acrylic work to robust PVC installations, the tools highlighted in this roundup offer precision, durability, and efficiency. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect plastic hole saw to ensure every cut is clean, smooth, and exactly as intended. Ready to tackle your next project? Click on any of the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons to explore the best options available today and elevate your plastic cutting game!
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.
