Hole Saw vs Spade Bit

A hole saw and spade bit both are used to drill holes in wood or thin metal surfaces. However, most woodworkers are still unaware of which tool is best suited for which application.

For woodworking, a spade drill bit will give you the best results, whereas a hole saw is suitable for both metal cutting and woodworking jobs. The common thing between them is that they are both used to drill holes in wood. Although both tools are used for drilling, there are some notable differences between them.

Today through this article you will know the definition, important features, and major differences between spade bit and hole saw. This post will also help you choose the best drill bit for wood according to your application.

What is a Spade Bit

A spade bit is also known as a paddle bit? Spade bits are the perfect drill bit for drilling holes in wood, plastic, and timber. However, you can also use it on thin metals if you are not concerned about the quality of the hole.

This is an ideal wood drill bit when it comes to drilling multiple holes in a short amount of time although spade bits make rough holes. Among all other drill bits, spade bits are the fastest wood drill bits.

The spade drill bit produces large diameter holes than other traditional drill bits.

What is a Hole Saw

A hole saw or hole cutter is a type of drill bit (though not a complete drill bit) used to cut or drill holes. Hole saws are perfect for making clean and smooth holes. They drill holes by rotating around their axis with a cutting drill.

Hole saws are made up of two parts: a saw blade and a mandrel. In hole saws, a saw blade is attached to the mandrel in a circular shape. Hole saws do not produce wood shavings and wood chips therefore, they cannot make flat bottom holes. However, the holes made by the hole saw bit are called complete holes, and they are much clean and smooth than other drill bit holes. And if you want to drill a flat bottom hole use a Forstner bit set.

Hole saw sizes range from 1" to 6" inches.

Difference Between Hole Saw vs. Spade Bit

Both the spade bits and hole saws are designed to accomplish specific tasks. Let us have a look at the comparison chart between hole saw vs. spade bit to understand the key differences.

What to Choose Between – Hole Saw and Spade Bit

Both spade bits and hole saws are excellent in terms of their efficiency and performance. They are used to perform their specific functions. But, when it comes to choosing between the two, what to choose?

Read below mentioned important factors that will help you choose between hole saw and spade bits.

Spade bits or paddle bits are the best wood drill bits. They are less expensive and are perfect for drilling rough holes in soft and hardwoods. Spade drill bits are faster than hole saws. If you want to drill multiple holes in less time, choose a spade drill bit.

On the other hand, If you want to drill perfect clean and smooth holes, choose a hole saw. They are well known in woodworking industries as the hole saw bit for wood for making precise holes. The working of the hole saw is different from that of the spade bit, so the efficiency will also be different. Hole saws are more efficient than a spade bit, although they are not fast as spade bits. 

You can make a complete hole using a hole saw. Hole saws are versatile, they can be used to drill both soft and hard materials including wood and metals. Visit our store, to get the best drill bit set.

That was all about the difference between hole saw vs. spade bit.

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