Forstner bits are awesome. After discovering them for myself, I use my set every chance I get. Even the less-expensive bits leave smooth bore holes with almost no splintering. If you’re a serious woodworker you might want to take a look at some of the finer bits on the market: Bormax Forstner style bits from German manufacturer FAMAG.
The patented design is formed by razor-sharp teeth set in a “wave-form” pattern. It produces less friction and heat, requires less power, and wears slower than other Forstner-style bits. The “wave-form” pattern also clears dust and chips efficiently, producing tear-free and accurate holes. You can use the bits in wood, MDF, plywood, and plastic.
Precision machined from high carbon steel, the imperial sized bits either have a 5/16″ or 3/8″ shank and they’re sold in sizes from 5/8 to 2-1/4″. You’re going to shell out anywhere from $20 to $75 for a single Bormax bit depending on the size. To save some money, you can purchase kits with either 5 or 16 bits for $140 or $530, respectively.
Bormax [FAMAG]
Bormax [Traditional Woodworker]
Bormax [Dieter Schmid]
If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it!
4 Responses to Bormax Forstner Bits
Leave a Reply
TM on Flickr
Recent Comments
{ Mithril -- nice.
And true. My understanding is that patent/licensing costs prevent the US from switching to one of the many better bit/fastener patterns... } – May 24, 2:43 PM{ Dear Toolmonger, You comments just make it very clear that you shouldn't have this platform because you don't have a clue. You apparently don't know... } – May 24, 1:04 PM
{ It would be interesting to have comment direct from Steve Gass since I am not certain of the following. However, it is my understanding that... } – May 24, 12:04 PM
{ The GM piston with integral e-brake function (circa 80's as used on Fiero). The crank lever on the backside of the piston housing must be... } – May 24, 9:13 AM
{ I own the ridgid one. Have had it for a few years now. Ever since I picked it up I have had no need to... } – May 23, 8:05 PM
We use lots of Forstner bits – and remember having a set of ones made by Connecticut Valley Tools that chucked in a bit brace.
In today’s market we like the European-made ones better than their Asian-made counterparts. We have bought product from the following firms – and found them to offer quality products:
FISCH PRECISION TOOLS INC. AUSTRIA
FAMAG WERKZEUGFABRIK GMBH GERMANY
CMT UTENSILI SRL. ITALY
It is amazing how much easier it is to cut with good Forstner bit versus a bad one. Cheap ones require you to push harder, and then it leads to a more likely chance of burning. I do a lot of drilling for wood turnings and boy can a crappy forstner ruin your day
ShopMonger
Is Fisch still in business?
Where can I get a good quality 3″ carbide forstner bit?