Forstner Bits

Unlike standard twist bits that can wander or tear out wood fibers, Forstner bits cut with authority and intention. Their unique design features a center spur for precise positioning and razor-sharp rim cutters that slice through wood cleanly, leaving behind holes so smooth they often require no additional finishing. Whether you're working with delicate veneers or dense hardwoods, these bits maintain control throughout the cut, eliminating the frustration of blown-out grain or wandering holes.

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    Freud 7 Piece Forstner Bit, 5/32" - 3/8" Shank, Carbide
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    Freud 7 Piece Forstner Bit, 5/32" - 3/8" Shank, Carbide
    FC-107
    $263.97
    Freud 3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, Carbide
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    Freud 3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, Carbide
    FC-005
    $39.97
    Freud 1-3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
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    Freud 1-3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
    PB-013
    $35.97
    Freud 2" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
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    Freud 2" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
    PB-015
    $39.97
    Freud 16 Piece Forstner Bit, 1/4" - 3/8" Shank
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    Freud 16 Piece Forstner Bit, 1/4" - 3/8" Shank
    PB-100
    $364.97
    Diablo 1/4" Forstner Bit, 1/4" Shank
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    Diablo 1/4" Forstner Bit, 1/4" Shank
    FB-001
    $7.47
    Diablo 3/8" Forstner Bit, 1/4" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 3/8" Forstner Bit, 1/4" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-002
    $8.47
    Diablo 1/2" Forstner Bit, 1/4" Shank
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    Diablo 1/2" Forstner Bit, 1/4" Shank
    FB-003
    $9.47
    Diablo 5/8" Forstner Bit, 5/16" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 5/8" Forstner Bit, 5/16" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-004
    $10.47
    Diablo 3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
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    Diablo 3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
    FB-005
    $11.47
    Diablo 7/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
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    Diablo 7/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank
    FB-006
    $12.97
    Diablo 1" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-007
    $13.97
    Diablo 1-1/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1-1/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-008
    $14.97
    Diablo 1-1/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1-1/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-009
    $15.97
    Diablo 1-3/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1-3/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-010
    $19.47
    Diablo 1-1/2" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1-1/2" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-011
    $21.47
    Diablo 1-5/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1-5/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-012
    $22.47
    Diablo 1-3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1-3/4" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-013
    $23.47
    Diablo 1-7/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 1-7/8" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-014
    $24.97
    Diablo 2" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
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    Diablo 2" Forstner Bit, 3/8" Shank, High Speed Steel
    FB-015
    $25.97
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    Forstner Bits

    For cabinet makers, Forstner bits are indispensable for installing concealed hinges, drilling shelf pin holes, and creating precise dowel joints that ensure doors hang perfectly and drawers glide smoothly. Furniture makers rely on them for boring leg mortises, creating plugs to hide fasteners, and drilling overlapping holes for complex joinery. Construction professionals appreciate their ability to drill clean holes for hardware installation, while millwork manufacturers depend on their precision for architectural details that demand perfection.

    The versatility of Forstner bits extends beyond basic hole drilling. They excel at:

    • Creating overlapping holes for traditional mortise and tenon joints
    • Drilling precise angled holes on workpiece edges
    • Boring large-diameter holes up to several inches wide
    • Making pocket holes for hidden fasteners
    • Creating decorative inlays and design elements
    • Drilling through multiple materials without drift

    Quality matters when selecting Forstner bits. Professional-grade options feature carbide tips for extended life in demanding applications, while high-speed steel versions offer excellent value for regular use. Look for bits with optimized cutting angles that reduce heat buildup and extend bit life. The best sets include popular sizes from 1/4 inch to 2 inches, covering the majority of woodworking applications from delicate detail work to large-scale construction projects.

    While Forstner bits perform exceptionally well in drill presses where precision is paramount, many professionals successfully use them with quality handheld drills for on-site work. The key is maintaining steady pressure and appropriate speed to prevent overheating and ensure clean cuts. For production work, consider bits with hex shanks that resist slipping and provide positive engagement with modern drill chucks.