Tools Misc

Roman Carbide Forstner Drill Bits

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Meta Description: Carl really likes the new fangled Carbide Forstner bits made by "Roman Carbide" (brand). They drill into end grain EASY and FAST. The big wide openings in the bit easily clear the shavings. The shavings almost jump out of the hole.

https://carlford.us/blog/2023/09/roman-carbide-forstner-drill-bits/

Photo: Roman Carbide Forstner Drill Bits (roman_carbide_bits)

Finally a set of Forstner bits that I can write home about! I have been looking for a GOOD new set of Forstner drill bits at a PRICE I COULD AFFORD for a long time! My old set is way to dull and can not be sharpened.

I was forced to try this new fangled carbide design when I needed to replace my 2-1/2" Forstner bit. All the old style ones, were way to much money. I was very happily surprised to find this new style cut really well.

Thus, last week, I ordered a small set of them in other sizes. Used them while making some boxes on the lathe. Drilling into end grain was EASY and FAST! I really like these bits. The big wide openings in the bit easily clear the shavings. The shavings almost jump out of the hole. And/or you can use a hand held air hose to clear the shavings while you drill.

One minor problem with these bits, is the drill bit shaft is a little short. A longer shaft would be nice. However, the shaft is nice and thick. You don't need to worry about bending it. The 3/8" HEX shank on the bits works great in drill chucks.

BEWARE! There are lots of look-a-like brands on the web. The ones I tried and like are made by "Roman Carbide" brand. I looked around and they appear to be the good brand. No guarantees. "Roman Carbide" brand bits are sold by a lot of well known retailers. They also make router bits.

I DO NOT like the looks of the cheaper ones on the web. This style of Forstner bit has 2 spurs that cut the edge and 2 main cutters that cut out the middle. The spurs on the "Roman Carbide" brand bits are tall and narrow. They cut great. They appear to be the secret to why I like these bits. The spurs on other brands look short and stubby. No good? I don't known. I don't want to waste my money finding out!

Photo: Roman Carbide 5-Piece Set (amazon_roman_carbide_set) Roman Carbide 5-Piece Set

The sizes in the 5-piece set are 1/2", 5/8", 3/4", 1" and 1-3/8". $39 on 9/7/2023.

They also sell a 15 piece set for $160.

I ONLY RECOMMEND the ones made by "Roman Carbide" brand! They are the only ones I have tried and like.

Beware! They also sell a VERY similar looking metric set (15mm – 35mm). I prefer US sizes (1/2" – 1-3/8").

Photo: Roman Carbide 2-1/2 Roman Carbide 2-1/2″ Forstner Bit

$41 on 9/7/2023.

I purchased this 2-1/2" Roman Carbide brand Forstner bit to drill mounting holes for plates and shallow bowls. See my "Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls" blog entry.

Note: The cheap “Steelex” brand Forstner bit that I use to use, got dull. I could not easily sharpen it with a file. A new “Steelex” brand bit is now to much money. The new carbide bit design works better (drills faster and easier) than the old traditional Steelex brand design.

I also purchased a 2″ one for boxes. It also works good.