Archived from the Tools In Action forum (Accessories). This thread is read-only.
Self-feed & spade bits do appear to drill faster than a hole saw. Hole saw seems to burn through the wood instead of cut it. Why use self-feed bits instead of hole saws or spade bits? I would think the hole saws would give a cleaner cut. What would be the positives and negatives of each?
Spade bits and self-feed bits are great for times when you need to drill something deep quickly. 2×4, 4×4, or deep posts like utility posts. The problem is, spade and self-feed bits tend to break-through and leave a bad finish on the exit side, more-so than hole-saws. If I were drilling sheet goods, I would reach for a hole saw. Also, hole saws are multi-material. Sheetrock, metal, wood, plastic, etc. Spade and self-feed – best to stick with wood most of the time.
Are the self-feed good for counter tops, or will they damage the surface ?
Self feed bit’s are not for finish work. What material are you drilling through? I’m assuming your talking about some type of Formica product??
Arborite/Formica
Everyone has a method of choice… Mine is clamping a piece of wood to the top surface then drilling it through the bottom with a hole saw bit.