The Best Hole Saws for Creating Perfectly Round Holes in

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Best Overall

Disston QuickCore 13-Piece Hole Saw Set

Best Overall

Disston QuickCore 13-Piece Hole Saw Set

Pros

Cuts down on wasted project time
Quick-release arbor
Useful range of sizes

If you’re tired of wasting time and energy removing stubborn plugs from your saws after drilling, you’ll appreciate the user-friendly design of these Disston saws.

A quick-change arbor sleeve quickly releases the saw after drilling, and their open-end design allows you to ram it backwards against the base to eject the plug in seconds. This arbor design also makes it easy to switch between saw sizes as you go, saving even more time.

These features make the Disston QuickCore saws especially useful for those who use hole saws frequently, since that extra time per plug can really add up over the course of a workday.

Key Specs

Size Range	¾ – 2 ½ in.
Type	Bimetal
Pieces	9
Compatible Material	Wood, metal, plastic

Best Budget

BOSCH General Purpose 9-Piece Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit

Best Budget

BOSCH General Purpose 9-Piece Bi-Metal Hole Saw Kit

Pros

Affordable and versatile
Universal arbor fits all hole saw brands

Cons

Relatively small slots for clearing plugs

Despite the budget-friendly price, this Bosch kit still packs a ton of value. In addition to the high-quality construction found in Bosch products, you’re also getting two universal arbors and a steel pilot bit for maximum control and stability.

The proprietary tooth design uses alternating tooth sizes, and claims to increase both performance and durability. Made with an 8 percent cobalt alloy, these saws are a great choice for those who prioritize durability and extended blade life.

Key Specs

Size Range	1¾ – 2 in.
Type	Bimetal
Pieces	6
Compatible Material	Wood, metal, plastic

Best for Doors

Lenox 2 1/8-in. Bi-Metal Arbored Hole Saw

Best for Doors

Lenox 2 1/8-in. Bi-Metal Arbored Hole Saw

Pros

Non-binding coating for fast cuts
Includes arbor

Cons

Not as functional as a full kit

If you’re primarily using your hole saw to create holes for door locks or knobs, and don’t need the variety of a large kit, this Lenox Tools model is a great choice.

Its 2⅛-inch diameter has you covered for the majority of lock sizes, and the included arbor means you’ll be able to get to work right away. The large, staircase-style speed slot allows you to quickly remove plugs too.

I’ve been using Lenox tools for years and have always found them to be sturdy, reliable products.

Key Specs

Size Range	2⅛ in.
Type	Bimetal
Pieces	1
Compatible Material	Wood, metal

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Most Comprehensive Kit

Milwaukee All-Purpose Professional Hole Saw Kit

Most Comprehensive Kit

Milwaukee All-Purpose Professional Hole Saw Kit

Now 13% Off

Pros

Extremely durable
Aggressive tooth design
Easy to use

Cons

May be overkill for the occasional DIYer

Boasting 28 individual saw sizes, this Milwaukee kit is prepared for a wide range of projects and tasks. A sturdy molded case keeps your saws protected when not in use, and their nested design allows the kit to take up minimal space in your toolbox or on your workbench.

Three arbors and three bits make this kit even more functional, and ensure that regardless of the size you’re using, you won’t have to sacrifice control as you operate.

Key Specs

Size Range	¾ to 4¾ in.
Type	Bimetal
Pieces	28
Compatible Material	Wood, metal

Best Heavy-Duty Kit

Greenlee 7-Piece Hole Cutter Set

Best Heavy-Duty Kit

Greenlee 7-Piece Hole Cutter Set

Pros

Built to last
Can be used on stainless steel

Cons

Not for use on wood

Greenlee has been a favorite of professional tradespeople for years, and these carbide-tipped saws are a great example of why they’re so popular. This carbide construction allows them to power through metal, and also cuts down on annoying squealing and saw chatter.

A handy quick-change arbor allows you to easily switch between sizes, and the split-point bit keeps it from walking as you start to drill. We’re also big fans of the flange stops on each cutter, so you don’t have to worry about over-drilling.

Key Specs

Size Range	⅞ – 2 in.
Type	Carbide
Pieces	5
Compatible Material	Metal

Best for Large Holes

LENOX 6-In. Bi-Metal Non-Arbored Hole Saw

Best for Large Holes

LENOX 6-In. Bi-Metal Non-Arbored Hole Saw

Pros

Aggressive tooth shape
Thick walls improve durability

Cons

Requires a powerful drill

If you need to make large holes for vents or can lights, consider this six-inch Lenox saw. The large teeth and thick walls maximize durability and efficiency, allowing you to confidently use it on both wood and metal applications.

The staircase-style speed slot will help cut down on plug removal time too. It’s not cheap, and you’ll need to supply your own arbor, but if you have the need, this saw could be a great investment.

Key Specs

Size Range	6 in.
Type	Bimetal
Pieces	1
Compatible Material	Wood, metal

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Best Carbide for DIYers

DEWALT Metal Cut Carbide Hole Saw Kit

Best Carbide for DIYers

DEWALT Metal Cut Carbide Hole Saw Kit

Pros

Durable construction
Convenient storage case
Ejection spring in each saw

Cons

Not as functional as bimetal options

If you don’t have the need or budget for commercial-quality carbide hole saws, this three-piece DeWalt kit could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Its carbide teeth are strong enough to be safely and efficiently used on metal surfaces, and their ejection springs easily pop out plugs when you’re finished with a cut. A raised shoulder prevents you from over-drilling too, which is always a nice perk.

You’re only getting three sizes in this kit, but this does make it convenient to store and transport when not in use.

Key Specs

Size Range	⅞ – 1⅜ in.
Type	Carbide
Pieces	3
Compatible Material	Metal

Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider’s Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.

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