Holesaws & Arbors

Bi-metal holesaws, arbors and pilot bits for cutting large-diameter holes. A holesaw needs the right arbor and pilot to work, so this guide covers how the three fit together.

Bi-metal holesaws — A holesaw is a cylindrical toothed cutter that removes a disc of material to leave a clean, large hole that a twist drill cannot make. A bi-metal construction combines hardened cutting teeth with a tougher body, giving a general-purpose saw that copes with wood, plastic, sheet metal and board. Choose the holesaw diameter to match the hole you need to cut.

Arbors — The arbor is the mandrel that holds the holesaw on the drill and carries the pilot bit through the centre. Arbors are matched to holesaw size, with one type for smaller saws and another for larger, so check that the arbor suits the saw you are using. The shank must also match your machine: a hex shank for a standard drill chuck, or an SDS shank for an SDS rotary drill.

Pilot bits — The pilot bit sits in the centre of the arbor and drills first, keeping the holesaw centred and stopping it wandering as the teeth bite. Keep a spare, as the pilot takes the initial load and wears before the saw does.

Putting it together — Match the saw to the hole size, the arbor to the saw size and drill type, and fit a sharp pilot bit. Run at a steady speed, ease off as the saw breaks through, and clear the cut disc before the next hole.

Order before our daily cut-off for fast UK dispatch.