Hole Saw for Cutting Thick Metal
Hole saws are one of the most versatile tools that you can have in your arsenal. Whether you are a professional or a DIY-ist you can never go wrong if you add one of the best hole saw for cutting thick metal on your toolbox.
They’re mostly inexpensive, offer a wide range of choices fit for your intended work, and most of all, they are super convenient to utilize. It’s just something that all hobbyists should have handy to make sure your upcoming projects won’t be as challenging.
Let’s get to know more about this user-friendly tool and the brands or products that will be worth your dime.
Quick Comparison of 5 Best Hole Saw for Cutting Thick Metal
| IMAGE | MODEL | RATINGS | WEIGHT | DIMENSIONS | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | DEWALT Hole Saw Kit | 4.7 | 1.7 pounds | 11.45 x 1.65 x 11 inches | Check Price |
 | Bosch HSM23-PieceM 23-Piece Sheet Metal Hole Saw Set | 5 | 0.2 Pounds | 9.5×16.5×4.75 in. | Check Price |
 | Milwaukee 249-22-4185 Hole Saw Kit | 4.8 | 13.55 Pounds | 9.5 x 16.5 x 4.75 inches | Check Price |
 | Greenlee 660- Hole Saw | 4.8 | 1.39 pounds | 9.1 x 7.7 x 2.2 inches | Check Price |
 | DEWALT 14-Piece Hole Saw Kit | 4.6 | 4.69 pounds | 3 x 9.8 x 7.3 inches | Check Price |
8 Best Hole Saw for Cutting Stainless Steel
These are some of the best hole saw for cutting thick metal out in the market. Take note that you can always buy single units if you don’t really need an entire kit. But most of the time, you’ll save more from buying a multi-piece set.
1.DEWALT Hole Saw Kit
Key Features:
- Durable carbide teeth
- Convenient ejection spring
- Break through preventionraised shoulder
The first entry on our best hole saw for cutting thick metal is from an industry giant, the DEWALT Hole Saw Kit. This 3-piece kit is a quick and reliable option if you need something quick to cut a hole through metal.
The carbide teeth that’s infused in this hole saw is super durable that you won’t regret spending on it. It’s one of those tools that are meant and built to last. The 3 different sizing option for this hole saw also makes it versatile enough to handle a lot of different drilling tasks.
Not only that, this hole saw is what you’d need if you want to drill at a slightly faster rate as its teeth are optimized enough to handle such jobs. Take note that this drill is not just for hobbyists but also for professionals. As this hole saw is enough to cut through 0.13 inches of steel.
This product also comes with a convenient ejection spring that eases on plug ejection. The raised shoulder also helps prevent break through.Please do take note that while this hole saw is meant for fast cutting, you need to be sure to put enough cutting fluid or oil on harder surfaces. And sometimes, you need to go a bit slow on tougher ones to ensure your kit’s safety. Stainless steels can get a bit hard and extremely difficult to cut sometimes.
The kit includes one 7/8 inches, 1/8 inches, and 3/8 inches hole saws. This product has relatively good reviews online from its users and one of the most trusted brands out there.
Pros
- Reliable 3-piece hole saw
- Built to last, super durable
- Convenient and easy operation
- Positive reviews online
- Trusted brand
Cons
- For a 3-piece kit, it can be a bit pricey
- Sometimes, 3-piece sizing options are just not enough
2.Bosch HSM23-Piece M 23-Piece Sheet Metal Hole Saw Set
Key Features:
- Easy snappilot bit into the mandrel
- Threadless design
- Positive lock design
- Easy plug removal
- Automatic disk ejection ejector springs
The next entry on our best hole saw for cutting metal is the Bosch HSM23-Piece M 23-Piece Sheet Metal Hole Saw Set. Yep, you read it right, this is a 23-piece set and is meant for the pros to utilize.
This is a top-quality hole saw and is super reliable. Hole cutting has never been easier thanks in part to this product’s auto-disk ejection technology. And then a huge part of that convenience is because of its positive lock design that minimizes wobbling as you work.
This should be a pro’s dream kit as it is not only reliable and convenient but also super affordable. All of that without compromising the kit’s durability. Rest assured that your investment will be well worth it because this 23-piece set is built to last.
The pilot bit should easily snap into the mandrel. The Threadless design should then prevent seizing into the mandrel plus provide quick and convenient changes.And the easy plug removal should then be the icing on the cake.
The set includes 10 hole saws with sizing options that range from ¾ inch to 3 inches. Then it also comes with 3 3/8 inch cobalt pilot bit and then adapters as well as saw springs. With all these sizing options and revolutionary design, you’ll never look anywhere else.
Bosch is also a major player when it comes to heavy duty tools so you know that you are in good hands.
Pros
- Reliable and durable hole saw set
- Multiple sizing options is a pro’s dream
- Convenient and easy to use
- Great value for money
- The perfect investment for professionals
Cons
- It’s not for the standard DIY-ist as it should be too expensive plus you won’t utilize everything that comes with the kit thus an inefficient investment
3.DRILLPRO 13 Pcs Hole Saw Kit
Key Features:
- Made from HSS or high speed steel
- Carbide teeth
- 13 sizing options
- Suitable for a lot of other tools
Next on our list is DRILLPRO’s 13 Pcs Hole Saw Kit. Right off the bat, we want to tell you that this 13-piece set should be the wisest investment that you’d ever have to spend on to date. Not only is it affordable but it’s so versatile and reliable at the same time.
Not just the pricing but what comes in the package is the sweet spot that both hobbyists and professionals alike have been waiting for. We’d even be willing to go out on a limb and say that this is the best hole saw kit you can buy when you are on a budget.
The whole kit is resistant and durable. It’s made of HSS or what we call high speed steel with extremely sharp blades that impact plus wear resistant, durable, and low consumption.
This kit is also very precise as well efficient. The carbide teeth that the hole saws are infused with ensure the cleanest cut round holes on stainless steel, iron, mild steel, aluminum plate, plastic sheet, alloy plate, copper, and also brass.
This tool can also drill 7/9 inches of depth on wood surfaces as well as 1/5 inches for stainless steel. As mentioned, it comes with 13 different hole saw sizes for all of your needs whether you are someone who’s looking forward to a DIY project or looking to add a valuable tool to your professional’s kit.
The sizing option ranges from 16mm or 0.63 inches to 53mm or 2.09 inches. The applications for this kit is also quite versatile. The hole saws are suitable for vertical electric drills, handheld electric drills, and mobile belt magnetic drilling machines.
The company itself offers great service after purchase and will accommodate any of your inquiries. This should be a quick decision for anyone!
Pros
- Very affordable kit
- A versatile kit that’s fit for both hobbyists and professionals
- Wide range of applications
- Multiple sizing options
- Durable and extremely sharp and cuts clean on multiple materials
Cons
- Some minor design mishaps like visual indicators on the kit
4.Milwaukee 28 Piece(49-22-4185) All Purpose Professional Ice Hardened Hole Saw Kit
Key Features:
- Ice hardened
- Durable Matrix II Bi-Metal Teeth
- Positive Rake Angle
- Radiused Tooth Back
- Deeper Gullets
- Functional Slot Geometry
Take a gander at one of the most versatile kits on our list, we’re talking about the Milwaukee 28 All Purpose Professional Piece Hole Saw Kit. This 28-piece set is sure to accommodate all of your hole drilling needs. So if you’re a professional then this should be your go-to kit.
The combination of red and white makes this kit look really nice and that’s not all there is to this awesome efficient set.
Obviously, this kit is for those who work and uses a lot of hole saws and for those who need irregular sizes most of the time. That’s where the 28 sizing options come in. with such a wide range of choices, this kit is not only one of the most versatile on our list but the kit with the most applications.
The size range covers 0.75 inches to 4.75 inches. And you’d think that with all the options this kit would be complicated to use? Well, it’s not. It’s designed to be easy to handle and convenient to utilize.
It’s also versatile enough to work in a lot of types of metal plus wood surfaces. It’s ice hardened so you are sure that you’re paying for something that’s going to last you for a very long time. The Matrix II Bi-Metal Teeth ensures durability and reliability too.
The positive rake angle is meant for fast cutting. The radiused tooth back will reduce stress on its teeth protecting them from unnecessary wear and tear. The deeper gullets assure faster chip removal and lastly, the slot geometry is designed for easy plug removal.
It comes with 3 arbors as well as 3 pilot bits. They are very sharp and should last 50% longer than competitor brands. Don’t let the price let you think twice, if you need heavy-duty hole saws and use it for professional jobs then we can’t tell you enough how this is one great investment.
Pros
- Multiple sizing options for professionals
- Fast and clean cuts
- Very reliable and durable kit
- Great value for money
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not a kit for hobbyists
5. Greenlee 660- Hole Saw
Key Features:
- Flange stop for over-drilling prevention
- Ejector spring for easy slug removal
- Cobalt steel pilot drill
- Carbide teeth
Next on our best hole saw for cutting thick metal is Greenlee’s 660Hole Saw Kit.This 6-piece kit is very efficient when it comes to cutting through the thickest metal. And that’s all thanks to its precision carbide teeth that ensures optimum performance as well as durability.
It’s safe to say that all products on our list are built tough and meant to last and this set is of no exception. The set comes with 5 cutter heads, hex key, arbor, and a case. Once again, this product is imbued with the very efficient and effective carbide teeth.
That ensures not only superb performance but also durability. Users have attested that while this set has gone through a significant amount of usage it still does not show signs of wear or stress at all.
It’s a very convenient kit as well as it’s got an ejector spring that enables you to remove slugs easily. And its flange stop should allow you to prevent any over drilling to happen. It also comes with a cobalt steel replaceable pilot bit with a split tip point that prevents walking and helps in maintaining the right path as you drill perfectly cut holes onto a multitude of surfaces especially metal.
Admittedly, this one is a bit pricey with what comes in the kit but if you value longevity for your tools and you use the sizing options that come with the package regularly then this is should be a no-brainer.
Pros
- Reliable quality
- Built to last
- Easy to clean and utilize
- Precision drilling and cutting of holes is its primary strength
- Wear resistant quality
Cons
- A bit pricey
6. Sungator 14-Piece Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit
Key Features:
- High quality Bi metal
- Comes with 10 hole saws
- Different mandrels of saws for different sizes
- Comes in a solid plastic case
This next kit is another super affordable 14-piece set, introducing Sungator’s 14-Piece Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit. If you’re on a budget and looking to have a complete set for your projects then this should be just right up your alley.
The main qualities of this kit are durability as well as safety. It’s made of high-quality Bi metal that’s rust proof and 2mm thick. It’s guaranteed to be much more durable about 50% more than competitor brands. This set of hole saws are also heat resistant.
The sharp teeth are meant for precision cutting and are super effective on metal, PVC board, wood, plastic, and even drywall. It assures smooth and clean cuts with precision with a depth of 43mm to 50mm.
This set comes with 10 hole saws, one spare pilot drill, one large mandrel, one small mandrel, a medium adapter, and an easy carry plastic case to house everything inside securely.
The mandrels are meant for hole saws of different sizes and it is mostly compatible with drills of different manufacturers. Worried about your budget? Worry no more, as you’ll get quality and savings at the same time with this kit.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Just the right amount of sizing options
- Clean and precise cuts
- Durable and reliable hole saws
- Versatile kit
Cons
- Will probably have some issues with super thick metal
7. DEWALT 14-Piece Hole Saw Kit
Key Features:
- Double tooth design
- Hole saws have a deep cut style
- Made of premium quality stainless steel
- Comes with 11 hole saws
The second entry from Dewalt on our list is their 14-Piece Hole Saw Kit. If the earlier 3-piece kit ain’t enough for your sizing needs then worry not as this industry giant has the right kit for any hobbyists or professionals alike.
Comes in a convenient and large enough case to carry everything you need on board. This kit is great for plumbing, electrical, as well as door-lock installations which further reinforces its versatility.
The hole saws have a deep cut style that ensures improved efficiency and versatility. Made of HSS or high speed steel and double tooth design, this kit is durable enough to last for a very long time.
It also comes with hardened backing plates that ensure that there wouldn’t be any warping or thread stripping that’s going to happen. It comes with 11 hole saws, a quick change mandrel both large and small, some replacement parts, and of course, its heavy-duty case.
The range of the hole saws in this set is from 0.9 to 2.5 inches. And the best part of it all is that it’s quite affordable.
Pros
- Durable hole saws
- Trusted brand
- Great reviews online
- Great sizing options
- Affordable and efficient for hobbyists and professional alike
Cons
- Some tiny parts like the springs tend to break rather easily
8. EZARC Carbide Hole Cutter
Key Features:
- Carbide technology
- Optimized tooth geometry
- EZARC metal plate
- Variable teeth technology
- 3 distinct cutting edges
The last entry for our best hole saw for cutting thick metal review is EZARC’s Carbide Hole Cutter. Unlike the rest of the products on our list, this one is a single unit and not part of a set.
The brand boasts an upgraded carbide technology that they assure that’s unlike any other. It comes with increased hardness and an optimized tooth geometry to allow the hole saw to provide unprecedented service life as well as fast cutting operation even for the most demanding applications.
This hole saw promises to cut smooth and clean holes that are precise with excellent control. This particular model has a cutting depth of an inch. Particularly efficient for decoration as well as industrial applications that cover even the thickest metals, stainless steel, high alloy steel, iron pipes, and even sheet metal plate.
It comes with a chip groove plus a deploying hole design that aims for effortless operation. These components give way for easy chip removal as well as an increased operation speed.
And lastly, this hole saw comes with Ezarc’s signature metal plate cutter that utilizes variable teeth tech with 3 distinct cutting edges that aims for balanced cutting and to make the blades durable as well as heat resistant.
The company also employs good customer service support to cater to your needs after purchase.
Pros
- High-quality carbide makes it durable
- Reliable quality for the hole saw
- Clean and precise cuts for a multitude of surfaces
- Will cut through thick metal with ease
- Safe operation and easy to clean
Cons
Pretty pricey for a single unit
Best hole saw for cutting thick metal buyer’s guide
Here are the aspects that you should consider if you’re looking for the best hole saw for cutting metal. Most of the time, knowing what to look for in a product can save you a lot of cash and make sure that your investment is well worth it.
Purpose
Quality is always on top of any buyer’s guide but we think that when it comes to tools like hole saws purpose should be a priority. Purpose determines how invested you are in buying tools given that heavy-duty tools usually last long and are not cheap.
Take the hole saws that we listed above into consideration. They are all from great brands and are superb products. But if you buy the wrong one for the applications that you intend to do, then you don’t only risk wasting money but buying the wrong configuration for your needs.
So when it comes to the purpose you first consider whether you need it for a hobby, or an actual professional job. Naturally, hobbyists may need fewer ranges when it comes to their projects as well as the intensity of the upcoming tasks.
Professionals, on the other hand, may need more sizing options for hole saws and need a kit that can take on consistent wear and heavy-duty applications.
Quality
When we talk about quality, we are talking about durability, speed, and the hole saws’ ability to cut. Does this brand assure the cleanest cuts? Precise and fast cutting? Or is it built to last?
These are the factors that you should consider. Carbide hole saws are ideal as they can cut through and accomplish most of your drilling tasks on any material including steel, iron, wood, and many more.
Budget
Budget when it comes to deciding for your next hole saw kit has something to do with its purpose. Are you willing to spend 200 bucks on it? Or you are looking at a 30 to 50 bucks price range? Most hobbyists can go for below $50 kits while most professionals might need to spend at least $90 for their needs.
Other Considerations
It would also be prudent to consider warranty options given that these kits should last a long time and sometimes in a short while you determine that it’s not the right configuration for your projects.
Also, you should look into considering the right power source for your hole saws so you can utilize it efficiently. Battery-powered or corded? Take your pick.
Frequently asked questions:
Here are a few other important things that you should know about this convenient tool.
Question:How do you efficiently cut a hole in thick metal material?
Answer:General techniques and precautions still apply when you use a hole saw to drill on a surface. Of course, the first thing you got to do is to use markers to accurately measure and determine the size of area of the intended hole.
Next is for you to create a dimple by using a center punch or maybe a nail. Then once the dimple is done then make sure to apply lubricant before drilling with your hole saw. And then make sure to remove any sharp edges.
The best hole saws for cutting thick metal are also best for softer materials like wood or plastic. Bi metal is ideal and if you follow the steps mentioned above then you shouldn’t have issues drilling holes even in the thickest metal surfaces.
Question:Is the material your hole saw is made of a huge factor?
Answer:Yes it does. While there are hole saws that are great for a lot of surfaces such as the ones we listed above, you need to use the appropriate kits for your tasks. Aside from carbide hole saws, there are cobalt made hole saws and steel that works for aluminum and hard metals.
Question:Are you able to utilize a hole saw without a pilot bit?
Answer:Yes, but that is only recommended for smaller holes and non-fragile surfaces. Thin and fragile material may crack so a pilot bit is desirable. As much as possible, only drill without a pilot bit when you are working for a larger diameter hole.
Question:Are hole saw arbors interchangeable?
Answer:Yes, hole saw arbors are interchangeable as this only refers to non-other than hole saw mandrels.
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of advantages to owning good quality hole saws. Especially if you buy a kit that has all the desirable qualities that will be worth your investment. We’ve listed down some of the best hole saw for cutting thick metal so you only have to find the right setup for your needs.
Durability, strength, speed, efficiency, and clean cuts, that’s what a good set of hole saws should provide. Are you going to go for a trusted brand or an underdog? It’s up to you. But one thing is for sure, you’ll have lots of fun and get a lot of work done once you get a hold of these kits.
So go ahead and start that DIY project now!
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