Drilling clean, precise holes in metal can be a challenging task without the right tools. Whether you’re working with stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, or other tough alloys, a high-quality metal hole saw is an indispensable asset for any professional or DIY enthusiast. These specialized cutting tools are designed to efficiently bore through hard materials, making light work of plumbing, electrical, and fabrication projects. From robust carbide-tipped options that tackle the toughest metals to versatile bi-metal kits perfect for a range of applications, choosing the best metal hole saw can significantly impact your project’s efficiency and finish. This guide will help you navigate the options and find the perfect hole saw for your needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Metal Hole Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best Carbide Metal Hole Saw for Stainless Steel, Mild Steel, Iron, Copper, Brass, Plastic
This carbide metal hole saw stands out for its exceptional quality and performance across a range of materials including stainless steel, mild steel, iron, copper, brass, and even plastic. Featuring an impressive 21 Tungsten Carbide teeth, it’s engineered for faster, cleaner cuts and boasts significantly extended life compared to standard bi-metal options. Its robust design is perfect for daily use, offering outstanding durability and reliability for demanding tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 21 Tungsten Carbide teeth for rapid and efficient cutting.
- ✓ Tungsten carbide blades ensure superior wear resistance and long lifespan.
- ✓ Capable of boring through up to 0.1 inch thick stainless steel.
- ✓ Generous 3-5/8″ (92mm) cutting diameter with a 1″ (25mm) depth.
- ✓ Offers 10X longer life over standard bi-metal hole saws.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this hole saw for its sheer cutting power and durability, especially when tackling tough metals like stainless steel. The high tooth count and premium carbide construction mean you’re investing in a tool that performs reliably and lasts significantly longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. It’s a true workhorse for heavy-duty applications.
Best For
This is the best metal hole saw for professionals and serious DIYers who frequently drill through hard metals like stainless steel, cast iron, and thick mild steel, demanding speed, precision, and extended tool life.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional durability with 10X longer life than bi-metal saws.
- High count of Tungsten Carbide teeth for very fast cutting.
- Versatile for a wide range of materials, including thick stainless steel.
- Delivers clean and smooth cut edges.
Cons:
- Potentially higher upfront cost compared to standard hole saws.
- Single size, requiring separate purchases for different diameters.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: So far I use it only once and it worked flawlessly/efficiently. I drilled a hole into cast iron sewer pipe to create a new vent inlet connection using saddle T connector. It was drilling it very easily and fairly fast and it create nice smooth edges on the pipe from outside and inside of the pipe I
Customer Review: This product is excellent quality. I used it to drill a electrical main panel for an additional circuit and it drilled like butter. Very good product.
2. Carbide Hole Saw Kit (5/8”-3”) with Pilot Drill for Hard Metal, Alloys, Stainless Steel
This carbide hole saw kit is a premium solution for professionals tackling hard metals and alloys, including stainless steel. It comes with a comprehensive range of sizes from 5/8” to 3” and features industrial-grade carbide tips coupled with upgraded titanium-coated pilot bits, ensuring both durability and superior rust protection. Its multipurpose drilling capability makes it an incredibly versatile tool for various demanding projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes a wide range of sizes: 5/8” (16mm) up to 3” (76mm).
- ✓ Made from industrial-grade carbide with titanium-coated pilot bits for extreme durability.
- ✓ Rustproof design ensures longevity and reliable performance.
- ✓ Multipurpose drilling capability for hard metal, alloys, and stainless steel.
- ✓ Designed for clean, precise cuts even in challenging materials.
Why We Recommend It
This kit earns our Editor’s Choice for its comprehensive size range, premium construction, and outstanding performance on hard materials. The combination of carbide teeth and titanium-coated pilot bits offers excellent cutting efficiency and tool life, making it a valuable addition to any workshop dealing with tough metal drilling. It’s a complete package for diverse needs.
Best For
This kit is ideal for professionals and serious hobbyists who require a variety of hole saw sizes for frequent drilling into hard metals, stainless steel, and alloys, valuing both performance and tool longevity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide selection of hole saw sizes in one kit.
- Superior quality carbide tips and titanium-coated pilot bits.
- Excellent performance on hard and stainless steel.
- Rustproof and highly durable construction.
Cons:
- Requires proper lubrication for optimal performance and longevity.
- May be an investment for casual users due to its robust nature.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I cut 4, 2-3/4 holes through 1 inch mild steel plate (1 inch is about the max cutting depth, maybe 1-1/8) using a drill press, it took a long time (a lot of which was due to belt slippage on the drill press) and a lot of cutting oil, but the holes were impressively clean and it seemd like the hole
Customer Review: Great Product. Works perfect for aluminum cut outs.
3. 16-Piece Carbide Hole Saw Kit with Pilot Drill for Hard Metal and Stainless Steel
The 16-piece carbide hole saw kit offers an excellent balance of quality and affordability, making it our top budget pick for working with hard metal and stainless steel. This heavy-duty kit features industrial-grade carbide tips and titanium-plated pilot bits, designed for long-lasting performance. It provides versatile drilling capabilities across a range of materials, ensuring you have the right tool for various projects without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Comprehensive kit including hole saw sizes from 5/8”(16mm) to 1-1/2”(38mm).
- ✓ Heavy-duty construction with industrial-grade carbide tips.
- ✓ High-grade titanium-plated pilot bits enhance durability and precision.
- ✓ Versatile for drilling hard metal, sheet metal, and stainless steel.
- ✓ Built for reliability and exceptional durability in daily use.
Why We Recommend It
For those seeking robust performance on a budget, this kit is an outstanding choice. It delivers the cutting power needed for tough materials like stainless steel, without the premium price tag. The combination of durable carbide and titanium-plated components ensures it can handle demanding jobs, providing great value for money.
Best For
This kit is perfect for budget-conscious DIYers and tradespeople who need a reliable set of carbide hole saws for occasional to moderate use on hard metals, including stainless steel and thick sheet metal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a comprehensive carbide hole saw kit.
- Effective for cutting through tough materials like stainless steel.
- Durable carbide tips and titanium-plated pilot bits.
- Good range of commonly used sizes.
Cons:
- Cutting depth might be limited compared to more expensive professional options.
- Some users might prefer a broader size range for very specific tasks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Use these hole saws to drill through stainless steel. These hole saws work like a champ. Drilled eight holes and the saw never showed any signs of getting dull. I attempted to use high-speed steel holesaw and they could not cut through the stainless steel. All they did was melt the tips of the hole
Customer Review: Use these hole saws to drill through stainless steel. These hole saws work like a champ. Drilled eight holes and the saw never showed any signs of getting dull. I attempted to use high-speed steel holesaw and they could not cut through the stainless steel. All they did was melt the tips of the hole
4. DAIMIT 19Pcs TCT Hole Saw Kit, 9/16″
The DAIMIT 19Pcs TCT Hole Saw Kit offers exceptional quality and performance, particularly noted for its high hardness TCT Carbide construction designed to prevent rust and fracture, significantly extending its service life. This kit includes a helpful spring attached to the pilot drill bit to minimize bounce and vibration, ensuring stable and precise drilling. Its upgraded TCT Carbide tooth structure is ideal for drilling a wide range of materials with enhanced durability and reliability.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Upgraded TCT Carbide material for superior hardness and extended life.
- ✓ Designed to prevent rust and fracture, enhancing tool longevity.
- ✓ Integrated spring on the drill bit reduces bounce and vibrations for precision.
- ✓ Wide application for drilling various materials including hard metals.
- ✓ Reinforced tooth structure ensures enhanced durability and cutting efficiency.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the DAIMIT kit for its thoughtful design elements like the anti-vibration spring and robust TCT Carbide construction. These features contribute to a smoother, more accurate drilling experience and ensure the hole saws last through countless projects. It’s a reliable choice for those who value precision and durability in their metalworking tools.
Best For
This TCT hole saw kit is best for users who require precision and stability in their drilling, especially when working with sensitive metals or where clean, vibration-free cuts are paramount.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High hardness TCT Carbide ensures excellent longevity and resistance to wear.
- Spring-loaded pilot bit enhances stability and drilling precision.
- Versatile for a broad range of applications and materials.
- Robust design prevents rust and premature fracture.
Cons:
- The specific range of included sizes might not cover all niche requirements.
- Individual hole saws are not sold separately if only one wears out.
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 lubrican
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.
5. Milwaukee Hole Dozer BI-Metal Hole Saw Kit: Your Best Solution for Metal Drilling
The Milwaukee Hole Dozer BI-Metal Hole Saw Kit is a trusted solution for a wide array of metal drilling needs, offering Milwaukee’s renowned quality and innovation. This comprehensive kit provides 17 hole saw blades in 9 popular sizes, making it versatile for various applications. Key features like Rip Guard for exceptional tooth strength and Plug Jack for easy plug removal elevate the user experience, ensuring efficient and hassle-free operation on the job site.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 17 hole saw blades in 9 common sizes (3/4″ to 2-1/2″).
- ✓ Features Rip Guard, an advanced tooth form with added steel for strength.
- ✓ Plug Jack design offers an all-access slot for quick and easy plug removal.
- ✓ BI-Metal construction provides versatility for various materials.
- ✓ Delivers professional-grade durability and reliability expected from Milwaukee.
Why We Recommend It
Milwaukee is synonymous with quality, and this Hole Dozer kit lives up to that reputation. The innovative Rip Guard and Plug Jack features genuinely improve efficiency and ease of use, making tough jobs less frustrating. For those who prioritize brand reliability and thoughtful design in their tools, this kit is an excellent investment.
Best For
This Milwaukee hole saw kit is ideal for professional electricians, plumbers, and general contractors who need a durable, versatile, and user-friendly set of bi-metal hole saws for consistent use across different metal and wood applications.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Reputable Milwaukee brand quality and durability.
- Innovative Rip Guard teeth for enhanced strength.
- Plug Jack design simplifies core removal, saving time.
- Comprehensive kit with a good range of useful sizes.
Cons:
- Bi-metal construction might not be as long-lasting as carbide on very hard, thick metals.
- The included storage box may not meet everyone’s expectations for organization.
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 not withstanding, 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
Complete Buying Guide for Metal Hole Saw
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best metal hole saw, several critical factors come into play. First, consider the material you’ll be cutting. For tough materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or thick alloys, carbide-tipped hole saws are generally superior due to their hardness and wear resistance. For general-purpose drilling in softer metals, wood, or plastics, bi-metal hole saws offer excellent versatility. The size and depth of cut are also crucial; ensure the hole saw’s diameter and cutting depth match your project requirements. Look for features like aggressive tooth geometry for faster cuts and reinforced shanks for durability. Additionally, compatibility with your drill (corded, cordless, or drill press) and the presence of a pilot drill for accurate starting are important considerations for optimal performance and safety.
Budget Planning
Budget plays a significant role in your choice, but remember that investing in a higher-quality metal hole saw often pays off in the long run through increased lifespan and better performance. While bi-metal hole saws are more affordable, their lifespan on hard metals is limited. Carbide-tipped hole saws, though pricier upfront, offer superior durability and efficiency on demanding materials like stainless steel, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Consider whether you need a single specialized size or a complete kit. Kits, like the budget-friendly carbide options we’ve reviewed, often provide better value per saw if you require multiple sizes. Balance the initial cost against the expected frequency and intensity of use to make the most economical decision.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best metal hole saw is one that reliably meets the demands of your specific projects. Prioritize saws designed for the hardest materials you’ll encounter, focusing on cutting tooth material (carbide being ideal for metal), tooth design, and overall construction quality. A good hole saw should offer clean cuts, resist wear, and integrate well with your existing power tools. Don’t underestimate the importance of features like easy slug ejection and robust pilot bits for a seamless drilling experience. By considering these factors, you can confidently select a metal hole saw that will be a valuable and long-lasting addition to your toolkit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a bi-metal and a carbide hole saw for metal?
A: Bi-metal hole saws are made from two types of metal (typically high-speed steel teeth welded to a softer alloy body). They are versatile and good for general-purpose cutting in wood, plastic, and softer metals. Carbide hole saws feature tungsten carbide teeth, which are significantly harder and more heat-resistant, making them ideal for drilling through hard metals like stainless steel, cast iron, and thick alloys, offering longer life and faster cutting in these materials.
Q: Can I use a standard drill with a metal hole saw?
A: Yes, most metal hole saws are designed to be used with standard drills (corded or cordless) or drill presses. It’s crucial to use the correct drill speed, typically lower RPMs for harder metals, to prevent overheating and premature wear of the hole saw. Always ensure your drill has enough power and torque for the size of the hole saw and the material you’re cutting.
Q: How do I prevent my metal hole saw from burning out?
A: To prevent burnout, use a slow drill speed, especially when cutting hard metals. Apply consistent, moderate pressure – don’t force the saw. Use a cutting lubricant or coolant specifically designed for metal drilling; this dissipates heat and lubricates the cutting edge. Periodically clear chips from the cutting area to prevent them from accumulating and generating excessive heat. Allow the saw to cool down between cuts, especially for deep holes or tough materials.
Q: What sizes of metal hole saws are most useful to have?
A: The most useful sizes depend on your projects. Common sizes for electrical work include 3/4″, 1″, and 1-1/4″ for conduit and wiring. For plumbing, 1-1/2″ to 2-1/2″ are often used. For general fabrication, a range from 1/2″ to 3″ can cover many applications. If you’re unsure, a multi-piece kit with a variety of common diameters is a cost-effective way to ensure you have the right tool on hand for most tasks.
Q: Is a pilot drill necessary for metal hole saws?
A: Yes, a pilot drill bit (usually centered within the hole saw) is essential. It helps to accurately position the hole saw, prevents it from “walking” or drifting off-center when you start drilling, and guides the hole saw through the material, ensuring a clean and precise cut. Ensure the pilot drill is sharp and securely fastened before use.
Choosing the best metal hole saw is a crucial decision for anyone serious about metalworking, plumbing, or electrical installations. The right tool not only speeds up your work but also ensures cleaner cuts and extends the life of your equipment. Whether you opt for the robust durability of a carbide metal hole saw for frequent work on stainless steel or a versatile bi-metal kit for varied tasks, our top picks offer reliable performance tested for demanding conditions. Remember to consider the material, desired hole size, and your budget when making your final selection. Invest wisely, and you’ll find that precise, clean holes in metal are well within your reach. Happy drilling!
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.
