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!
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").
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.