Best Wood Forstner Drill Bits of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026

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Wood Forstner Drill Bits are essential tools for any woodworking enthusiast or professional. These bits are designed to create clean and precise holes in wood, making them ideal for cabinetry, furniture making, and other woodworking projects. The bits feature a sharp center point that helps guide the bit into the wood and a flat bottom that produces a flat-bottomed hole. They are available in a range of sizes to accommodate various hole diameters and can be used with a drill press or handheld drill. Wood Forstner Drill Bits are a must-have tool for any woodworking project that requires precision and accuracy.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set Cover #TOP 1
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set, 14 Pieces Cover #TOP 2
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set, 14 Pieces
ftb score rating icon 9.7
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit 1-Inch Cover #TOP 3
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit 1-Inch
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Wood Forstner Drill Bits

IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set

1966892
Multi
One Size
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set Cover
Irwin Tools IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set, Wood Drilling, 8 Piece (1966892)

The IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set is a must-have for wood drilling. With its optimized ultra-sharp cutting teeth, this set of 8 forstner bits allows you to effortlessly drill high-quality flat-bottomed and pocket holes in both hard and soft woods. Compared to traditional forstner bits, these bits significantly reduce cutting time, saving you valuable time and effort. The reduced shank fits 3/8" and larger drills and drill presses, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of tools. Whether you're a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, the IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set is designed to make your woodworking projects easier and more efficient.

What We Like
Very sharp and durable bits
Clean, precise holes in wood
Secure and well-designed case
Works well with various wood types
Excellent value for the price
#TOP 2

IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set, 14 Pieces

1966893
Multi
One Size
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set, 14 Pieces Cover
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set, Wood Drill Bits, Made of Carbon Steel, Ideal for Fine Woodworking, Cabinet-making and more, 14 Pieces (1966893)

The IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit Set is designed for fine woodworking, cabinet-making, and more. The bits feature optimized ultra-sharp cutting teeth that cut through hard and soft woods smoothly and efficiently, reducing cutting time compared to traditional forstner bits. The set includes 14 pieces with reduced shanks that fit 3/8" and larger drills and drill presses, including 1-1/2", 1-5/8", and 2" forstner bits. They're perfect for easily drilling high-quality flat-bottomed and pocket holes.

What We Like
Reasonable price
Good selection of sizes
Sharp cutting performance
Clean holes in plywood
Durable edge retention
#TOP 3

IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit 1-Inch

1966900
Multi
1 in
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit 1-Inch Cover
IRWIN Marples Forstner Bit, Wood Drilling, 1-Inch (1966900)

The IRWIN Forstner Bit is designed to help you drill flat-bottomed and pocket holes faster than traditional bits, saving you valuable time on your woodworking projects. Its sharp knife edge is specially made to cut smoothly through both hard and soft woods, making your work cleaner and easier. You’ll appreciate the fine, smooth finish it provides, ensuring your holes look professional without extra sanding. Plus, the reduced shank fits most drills and drill presses, giving you flexibility and convenience when setting up your tools.

What We Like
Clean, precise drilling
Durable sharp cutting edge
Easy chip removal
Versatile for wood types
Stable in hand and drill press
#TOP 4

GMTOOLS 8PCS Forstner Bit Set

GMTOOLS 8PCS Forstner Bit Set Cover
GMTOOLS Forstner Bit Set, 8PCS Forstner Drill Bits for Wood, Carbide Forstner Bit for Woodworking, Auger Opener Round Shank Drilling Cutting Tool for Hardwood, Softwood, Plastic, Plywood

The GMTOOLS Forstner Bit Set includes eight high-quality bits made from carbon steel, designed for durability and shock resistance. This means you can enjoy efficient cutting while working on wood, plastic, and plywood, making your projects smoother and faster. With a variety of sizes ranging from 1/4" to 1-3/8", you'll find the perfect bit for delicate perforations or larger holes. This set is compatible with various drills, whether you're using a handheld electric drill or a bench drill, giving you flexibility in your woodworking tasks.

What We Like
Very sharp cutting edges
Clean, precise holes
Wide size range
Secure, organized case
Reliable for multiple materials
#TOP 5

Meichoon Forstner Drill Bit Set

Q-DC01
5 inches
Meichoon Forstner Drill Bit Set Cover
Meichoon Forstner Drill Bit Set 15-35mm 16 Pcs, Carbide Forstner Bits High Speed Steel Wood Tool Punching Bit Wood Slabs Flat Wing Drilling Hole Hinge Cemented Carbide Drilling Counterbore DC01

The Meichoon Forstner Drill Bit Set includes 16 pieces of drill bits with diameters ranging from 15mm to 35mm. These drills are made from tungsten steel and hot-treated, making them highly durable and resistant to shock. They have a small incision resistance, allowing for improved opening speed. These bits are suitable for drilling through any wood and wood product, as well as plastic and plywood. They are ideal for industrial hinge installation, wood processing and maintenance, model production, and installation of spherical door, drawers and more.

What We Like
Very sharp cutting edges
Exceptional value for price
Diverse range of sizes
Sturdy and durable build
Clean, precise holes
#TOP 6

NIBBLAX 2" Forstner Drill Bit HEX Shank

NIBBLAX
2 in
NIBBLAX 2" Forstner Drill Bit HEX Shank Cover
NIBBLAX 2 Inch Forstner Drill Bit for Woodworking, 2" Forstner Bit Wood Drill Bits for Holes, Hinge Cutter for Hard Wood, Plastic, Plywood HEX Shank

The NIBBLAX 2" Forstner Bit is designed to drill clean, precise holes in various materials like hardwood, softwood, plywood, and plastic. Its 2-inch diameter and HEX shank provide a strong grip and compatibility with many drill types, giving you flexibility for different projects. The bit’s special tooth-shaped design reduces heat and friction, which means smoother cuts and less wear on the tool. Plus, the ultra-sharp spur helps you start drilling accurately without the bit slipping, making your work easier and more precise. This bit works well with handheld drills and bench presses, but avoid using it with impact drivers for safety.

What We Like
Clean, precise holes
Good storage container
Sharp cutting teeth
Affordable price
Works on various wood types
#TOP 7

INTOO Forstner Bit Set 16 pcs Hex Shank Wood Drill Set

INTOO-HCS-HexShank-ForstnerBits-16pcs
15.8 millimeters
INTOO Forstner Bit Set 16 pcs Hex Shank Wood Drill Set Cover
INTOO Hex Shank Forstner Bit Set 16 pcs Multi Sided Shank Wood Drill bit Set

The INTOO Forstner Bit Set includes 16 pieces of multi-sided shank wood drill bits with hex shanks, designed for cutting through hard and soft wood and other materials smoothly and efficiently. The extra sharp cutting spurs prevent chipping, while the hex shank is easy to install and prevents slipping. The set is made with good quality materials for toughness and shock resistance, reducing cutting time. The 3/8" reduced shank fits any electric power machines and drill presses.

What We Like
Sharp cutting edges
Secure hex shank design
Durable storage case
Accurate hole sizing
Fast shipping
#TOP 8

NICAVKIT 3 Inch Carbide Forstner Drill Bit

NI0018-76
76mm | 3''
NICAVKIT 3 Inch Carbide Forstner Drill Bit Cover
NICAVKIT 3 Inch Carbide Forstner Drill Bit, Carbide Tipped Forstner Bit for Hard Wood, Wood Drilling Bit Woodworking Hinge Cutter Tool Kits for Wood Plywood Plastic,76mm | 3''

The NICAVKIT Carbide Forstner Bit is a top-quality woodworking tool that is perfect for drilling precise and smooth holes in hard wood or soft wood. Made from high-quality tungsten carbide tipped cutters, this drill bit is sharp, durable, and rust-proof. With a drilling diameter of 3 inches and a drilling depth of up to 2-3/8 inches, it is ideal for various woodworking projects. Whether you need to drill holes in wood, plastic products, furniture, door hinges, or desks, this multipurpose tool has got you covered. It is recommended to use a machine with good fixing performance for drilling operations, but it can also be used with a hand electric drill when combined with a vise for better stability.

What We Like
High Quality
Precise and Smooth Holes
Multipurpose
#TOP 9

CORTOOL Forstner Drill Bit 3 Inch, Triple-Flute Carbide Tipped Forstner Bit for Hard Wood

US488000000
3 Inch
CORTOOL Forstner Drill Bit 3 Inch, Triple-Flute Carbide Tipped Forstner Bit for Hard Wood Cover
CORTOOL Forstner Drill Bit 3 Inch, Triple-Flute Carbide Tipped Forstner Bit for Hard Wood, Soft Wood, Veneered Plywood, Plastic, Drilling Hole Saw Woodworking Hinge Cutter Tool

Features
Point-Precision: 1 Centring Tip With 3 Peripheral Cutting Edges Locate The Centre Of The Hole With Ease, Prevents The Bit From Wandering Around. Ensure Consistent And Accurate Results.
Heavy-Duty: Thick Micro-Grain Carbide Tips Ensure Cleaner Cuts And Long Lasting Sharpness. Solid Hardened Steel Build For Optimal Structural Strength.
Wide Compatibility: CORTOOL Forstner Drill Bit Will Drill Through A Multitude Of Materials Including Hardwood/softwood/composites/veneered Plywood/plastic. Use To Drill Pocket Holes, Angled Holes, Overlapping Holes And Flat Bottom Holes.
Reminder: Can Be Used With Hand Held Drills And Bench Presses. Please Wear Eye Protection At All Time. Please DO NOT Use The Bit With Impact Driver.
3-Blade (Flute) Design: Fast, Smooth Cutting Experience And Chip Removal, With Improved Durability Compared To Counterparts With 2 Blades(flutes).
#TOP 10

CORTOOL Forstner Bit Set

48600008
CORTOOL Forstner Bit Set Cover
CORTOOL Forstner Bit Set 16Pcs Hex Shank, Wood Drill Bits Set with Multi Sided Shank

The CORTOOL 16Pcs Wood Drill Bits, also known as the CORTOOL Forstner Bit Set, is a high-quality set of forstner drill bits designed for cutting through hard and soft wood, plastic, and other materials. With a 3/8" hex shank, these bits are easy to install and tighten, preventing slipping during use. The extra sharp cutting spurs ensure smooth and efficient cutting, without chipping the material. Whether you need to make flat-bottomed holes or pocket holes, this set delivers great performance. The good material used in these bits ensures toughness and resistance to shock, reducing cutting time. Compatible with any electric power machines and drill presses, the CORTOOL 16Pcs Wood Drill Bits are a reliable choice for all your drilling needs.

What We Like
Versatile
Easy to install
Efficient cutting
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a Forstner drill bit used for?

Forstner bits are unique in their ability to drill overlapping holes, notches on the edges of a workpiece, and angled holes on the face of a workpiece (pocket holes, for example). The bit will cut whether or not the center spur is engaging the workpiece.

2. Can you use Forstner bits with a hand drill?

Cutting precise, large-diameter holes with a portable power drill or drill press can be done with a variety of drill bit attachments, including a hole saw, spade bit, or Forstner bit.

3. How deep can you drill with a Forstner bit?

A Forstner bit that measures 2-3/8 inches can bore a hole, completely through, measuring 4-3/4 inches. Technically, you can drill another one inch with the same bit just by extending the shank a half-inch out of the jacobs chuck after boring to full depth (fig 6). Go slow, though.

4. For what type of drilling is a Forstner bit best suited?

A Forstner Bit can drill holes other bits only dream about. Forstner bits also shine when it comes to drilling clean, precise 90° holes and large-diameter holes. Carbide-tipped Forstner-style bits excel at drilling the precise, flat-bottomed holes required for European-style hinges.

Editor's Notes

During our wood forstner drill bit research, we found 24 wood forstner drill bit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 57,717 customer reviews through our big data system to write the wood forstner drill bits list. We found that most customers choose wood forstner drill bits with an average price of $26.73.

The wood forstner drill bits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of wood forstner drill bits, including IRWIN, GMTOOLS, Meichoon, NIBBLAX, INTOO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.