Hole Saw vs Spade Bit

A hole saw and a spade bit are both 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 a spade bit and a 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 larger diameter holes than other traditional drill bits.

Features of spade bits

Here are the key features of spade bits:

• Sharp cutting edges: spade bits have sharp cutting edges specifically made to cut wood and soft materials. These edges are capable of cutting faster and effortlessly.

• Central point: spade bits are controlled by the central point, which works as a pilot.  This will further help the bits from slipping or wandering.

• Paddle-shaped, flat blade: spade bits have a flat-paddled shape design which scrapes material with ease and produces clean and precise holes.

• Spurs: the spurs or spikes on the edges of the blade help in increasing the drilling efficiency by removing chips and debris.

• Available in different sizes: spade bits are available in a broad range of diameters to suit various hole sizes.

• Sturdy  Design: Spade bits are highly durable because of their sturdy design. They are made of high-quality 

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 cleaner and smoother 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.

Features of Hole saw

Here are the key features of Hole saws:

• Teeth material: Hole saw’s teeth are usually made of HSS or carbide making them efficient and long-lasting.

• Cylindrical shape: the hole saws are cylindrical with hollow inside like a pipe or tube. It has teeth in its outer edge, which helps in cutting perfect holes in various materials.

• Pilot bit: Pilot bits are fixed to hole saws in the middle of the arbor. This works as a guide to larger bits. When you start drilling, the pilot bits create a hole in the center which further helps in drilling larger holes or is an entry to a larger hole saw. The pilot bit ensures that the hole saw stays in its path producing clean and precise cuts.

• Arbor:  Arbor is the hole saw’s central shaft. Arbor makes the drilling process easier by acting as a bridge between the hole saw and the drill. It efficiently transfers power and motion for accurate results. 

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 the hole saw and the 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? Below are the important aspects that will help you choose between hole saw and spade bits.

Spade bits, also known as paddle bits, are considered the fastest wood drill bits. They are less expensive than hole saws 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. A hole saw is widely utilized by the woodworking industry 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 spade bits, although they are not as 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.

That was all about the difference between a hole saw and a spade bit. Visit our store to get the best drill bit set at the most affordable price.