Kreg Owners' Community

Who makes the best, long lasting bits that will not cost me an arm and a leg? Or is this just one of those things you get to replace more often then I want?

Views: 375

Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

I have a set of Forstner bits, from Rockler, as well as from others.

Good price for the larger set from Rockler.

I've drilled lots of holes with most of them, and they've served me well for several years.

I touch up the cutting edges, to keep them sharpened, using diamond steel files, such as the machinist files, offer by EZE-LAP.

I've found most cheap bits, do not have the brad point "centered", 

as well as not keenly sharpened to provide a clean cut hole. 

I've found many to also have burrs on the cutting edges.

If the brad point is off, by even a 1/64", you'll not get a good clean hole. 

If you only need a small number of sizes, and plan to drill lots of holes on a daily basis, 

then get a higher quality made bit.

I bought a 2" Diablo brand. Wore out fast. I am cutting A LOT of 2" holes in about 60 - - 2 x 4 x 10 pieces. 3 holes each piece. I already have a simple 8 piece set. But I need this 2" bit for this project I am working on. Appreciate the info.

I've been extremely disappointed with the Diablo bits. The fact that the are a Freud product makes them even more disappointing. I had a 1½" Diablo that lasted one 5/8" deep hole. I found the Woodtek brand on Amazon that works well and lasts. I needed a 2½" inch to bore out the inner diameter of bracelets on a lathe. It has worked perfectly for 15 bracelets ranging in thickness from 5/8" to 1¼", even though my lathe won't slow to the recommended speed. I also ordered 1-9/16" & 1-5/8" bits for boring cups to hold tea lights and votives, and they also performed much better than the Diablo. I have a set of Porter Cable bits for sizes 1-3/8" and under that I've never had an issue with.
As Ken mentioned, I do touch up the cutting edges with the EZ Lap diamond hones before each use. If you are cutting into pine, cedar or other soft woods, be sure that pitch is not building up on the bit, as well.

Thanks Tim. I felt the same way about the Diablo. Thankfully, I only bought the one 2" for my Fishing rod holder I made a few years back. I have a Porter Cable set but it doesn't go up to the 2" size. This purchase was a quick trip to the big box store. I habe now purchased 2 through Rockler. If those fail, Woodtex will be next. So frustrating.

I've used the Diablo drill bits, and didn't experience any problems.

Prior to use, I keenly sharpened the cutting edges, and they performed without any problems.

They cut as clean as others I've used.

Reply to Discussion

RSS

Need Help?

For Technical Support, please call 800-447-8638 or send a message. Reps are available Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm CST. 

Videos

  • Add Videos
  • View All

Forum

Jig settings for 2 ¾ x 1 ½ boards with 30 degree miters?

I making a hex ring out of 2x4s ripped to 2 ¾ inches wide with 30 degree miters.  What setting on the Jig should I used? 1 ½ is too much.  Thanks.Continue

Started by Patrick Halinski in Kreg Jig® Operation Dec 30, 2023.

40mm Cup Hinge Jig Question

Hi All.....I have the 35mm Kreg Jig hinge drill guide. The guide is great for 35mm Hinge Cups, but I have a speciality 40MM hinge cup to drill.Has anyone adapted the Kreg guide to work with 40mm Forsner drill bits? Or have a guide that works…Continue

Started by Ed Anderson in Beginners' Zone Oct 3, 2023.

Product Reviews

New Kreg 720Pro

I saw the video Kreg put out for this new jig and had high hopes for it.

I purchased one today and am very disappointed with it.

First the docking station is extremely cheap. The plastic is pathetic. A Lego has more…

Continue

Posted by Duke Leon on February 15, 2021 at 9:00pm

Not Pleased With Pocket Hole Construction

Several months ago, I purchased the Kreg K4MS so that I could build the Lego Table as outlined on the companion "buildsomething" web site which exclusively uses pocket hole construction.  I have considerable experience with conventional…

Continue

Posted by Robert Ringel on September 17, 2020 at 1:48pm — 9 Comments

© 2024   Created by KregRep.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Privacy Policy  |  Terms of Service

_