The Best Forstner Bit Sets of 2023

While Forstner bits are primarily intended for use in drill presses, they’re frequently used in hand drills as well. When drilling holes for trunking or cabling, for example, Forstner bits cut cleanly and easily. By contrast, a spade bit often judders, making it difficult to control. Forstner bits produce less tear-out, too.

The eight-piece Kowood Fostner bit set ranges from ¼-inch to 1 ⅜-inch and has tungsten carbide tips for durability. The three smallest diameter drills use an interesting combination of a Forstner-style tip with a twist drill body, which helps clear waste and prevents them from overheating in deep holes.

While larger bits might be required for some tasks, the sizes offered in this kit will be adequate for most DIY purposes. The larger bits may also cause a problem for some hand drills or drill drivers, which may not have the torque to drive larger diameter bits.