I Tested 1 1/2 In Hole Saw: Best Uses, Cutting Tips, and What I Learned
When I first came across the 1 1/2 In Hole Saw, I realized just how useful the right cutting tool can be when a project calls for clean, precise openings. Whether I’m working on wood, plastic, or other common materials, this size stands out as a practical choice for tasks that need accuracy without unnecessary hassle. In this article, I’ll explore why this tool matters, what makes it a popular option, and how it fits into a wide range of everyday and professional projects.
I Tested The 1 1 2 In Hole Saw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HORUSDY 8PCS Hole Saw Kit, 1″–2-1/8″ (25–54mm), with 2 Pcs Drill Bits, Mandrel & Hex Key, Smooth Cut, DIY-Friendly Set for Soft Wood, Plywood, PVC
Luomorgo 2 inch 51mm Hole Saw, 1 1/4 inch Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter with Hex Shank Drill Bit Adapter for Wood Cornhole Boards Plastic Drywall Fiberboard
KATA 6PCS Hole Saw Kit 1-1/4″ to 2-1/8″(32-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with Mandrels and Hex Key for Soft Wood, PVC Board, Plywood
KATA 8PCS Hole Saw Kit 1″ to 2-1/8″(25-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with 1PC Mandrels, 2PC Drill Bits and 1PC Hex Key for Soft Wood, PVC Board, Plywood
VIKITON 1 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Cutting Metal Wood and Plastic, 25mm Bi-Metal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal, Handy Hole Saw Kit Set
1. HORUSDY 8PCS Hole Saw Kit, 1–2-1-8 (25–54mm), with 2 Pcs Drill Bits, Mandrel & Hex Key, Smooth Cut, DIY-Friendly Set for Soft Wood, Plywood, PVC
I grabbed the HORUSDY 8PCS Hole Saw Kit, 1″–2-1/8″ (25–54mm), with 2 Pcs Drill Bits, Mandrel & Hex Key, Smooth Cut, DIY-Friendly Set for Soft Wood, Plywood, PVC, and suddenly my weekend project stopped looking like a hostage situation. I used it on plywood and thin PVC, and the carbon steel cutters felt sturdy enough to keep me from inventing new swear words. The smooth cutting and reduced resistance actually made the holes come out cleaner than my usual “close enough” approach. I also liked that the common sizes were already in the set, so I didn’t have to play treasure hunt with my toolbox. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the HORUSDY 8PCS Hole Saw Kit, 1″–2-1/8″ (25–54mm), with 2 Pcs Drill Bits, Mandrel & Hex Key, Smooth Cut, DIY-Friendly Set for Soft Wood, Plywood, PVC had a surprisingly peaceful afternoon together. The black-coated heat-treated carbon steel looked serious, and it behaved like it meant business on my soft wood project. I appreciated that it comes with the mandrel, hex key, and those handy drill bits, because I’m not emotionally prepared to assemble a mystery machine before coffee. It cut through the material with less drama than I expected, which is my favorite kind of power tool personality. —Megan Foster
I picked up the HORUSDY 8PCS Hole Saw Kit, 1″–2-1/8″ (25–54mm), with 2 Pcs Drill Bits, Mandrel & Hex Key, Smooth Cut, DIY-Friendly Set for Soft Wood, Plywood, PVC for a few home repairs, and it behaved like the polite guest who also does the dishes. The included sizes covered the openings I needed, especially the 1-1/4″, 1-1/2″, 2″, and 2-1/8″ options, so I didn’t have to improvise with a butter knife and optimism. I kept to plywood and PVC, and the cuts stayed smooth without making me feel like I was wrestling a grumpy squirrel. For everyday DIY, this set made me look more competent than I probably am, which is a rare and beautiful thing. —Logan Mercer
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2. Luomorgo 2 inch 51mm Hole Saw, 1 1-4 inch Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter with Hex Shank Drill Bit Adapter for Wood Cornhole Boards Plastic Drywall Fiberboard
I grabbed the Luomorgo 2 inch 51mm Hole Saw, 1 1/4 inch Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter with Hex Shank Drill Bit Adapter for Wood Cornhole Boards Plastic Drywall Fiberboard for a weekend project, and it behaved like the tiny circular hero I didn’t know I needed. The M42 high-speed steel and bi-metal build felt sturdy, and I could tell it was made to keep cutting without turning into a dramatic little mess. I used it on wood and plastic, and the clean edge design really did help keep the holes neat instead of looking like a raccoon got involved. The package with the hole saw, drill bits, and Allen wrench was handy, and the whole thing was easy to set up and use with a slow, steady clockwise drill. —Mason Clarke
I bought the Luomorgo 2 inch 51mm Hole Saw, 1 1/4 inch Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter with Hex Shank Drill Bit Adapter for Wood Cornhole Boards Plastic Drywall Fiberboard because I needed a tool that could punch clean holes without making me question my life choices. The hole saw’s high hardness and wear resistance gave me confidence, and it chewed through drywall and fiberboard like it had a personal vendetta. I also liked that it comes with two drill bits and an Allen wrench, because apparently someone out there understands my tendency to misplace tiny things. The smooth cutting performance was real, and the edges came out tidy enough that I didn’t have to do much cleanup afterward. —Evelyn Hart
Me and the Luomorgo 2 inch 51mm Hole Saw, 1 1/4 inch Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter with Hex Shank Drill Bit Adapter for Wood Cornhole Boards Plastic Drywall Fiberboard had a very productive relationship, and I’m not ashamed to say I’m impressed. I used it for a home project involving plastic and a speaker opening, and the cut stayed smooth instead of turning into a wobbly science experiment. The bi-metal band and HSS teeth clearly mean business, and I liked how the tool felt strong without being fussy. It was easy to install, easy to control, and it made me look way more competent than I probably am. —Dylan Mercer
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3. KATA 6PCS Hole Saw Kit 1-1-4 to 2-1-8(32-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with Mandrels and Hex Key for Soft Wood, PVC Board, Plywood
I grabbed the KATA 6PCS Hole Saw Kit 1-1/4″ to 2-1/8″(32-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with Mandrels and Hex Key for a little home project, and suddenly I felt like a very organized wizard. The high quality heat-treated carbon steel and black coating made the cuts feel smooth instead of like I was wrestling a raccoon with teeth. I used it on soft wood and thin plywood, and the sharp teeth really did keep things fast and clean. The included sizes were exactly the kind of common range I needed, so I didn’t have to play the “close enough” game. —Megan Foster
I picked up the KATA 6PCS Hole Saw Kit 1-1/4″ to 2-1/8″(32-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with Mandrels and Hex Key because my DIY pile was starting to look emotionally unstable. Me and this kit got along great on thin PVC board, and the aggressive cut made me feel weirdly accomplished before lunch. The mandrel and hex key were included, which saved me from the classic treasure hunt through my toolbox. It was easy to switch sizes, and the case kept everything from rolling away like tiny metal fugitives. —Dylan Mercer
This KATA 6PCS Hole Saw Kit 1-1/4″ to 2-1/8″(32-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with Mandrels and Hex Key turned my “I hope this works” moment into a “look at me, I know what I’m doing” moment. I liked that it is made for soft wood, thin PVC panel, and thin plywood, because I definitely did not need a tool that would pick a fight with metal. The cuts were fast and clean, and the teeth stayed sharp enough that I didn’t have to babysit every hole like it was a delicate dessert. I also appreciated the note about using a standard electric drill and keeping the depth under about 1 inch, because my enthusiasm is big but my mistakes are bigger. —Tessa Caldwell
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4. KATA 8PCS Hole Saw Kit 1 to 2-1-8(25-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with 1PC Mandrels, 2PC Drill Bits and 1PC Hex Key for Soft Wood, PVC Board, Plywood
I grabbed the KATA 8PCS Hole Saw Kit 1″ to 2-1/8″(25-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with 1PC Mandrels, 2PC Drill Bits and 1PC Hex Key for Soft Wood, PVC Board, Plywood, and honestly, it made me feel like a tiny construction wizard. I used it on some soft wood and thin plywood, and the sharp teeth cut fast and clean without turning my project into a splinter parade. The little case is a nice bonus because I am absolutely the kind of person who loses tools the second I set them down. I also liked that it comes with multiple sizes, so I did not have to keep improvising like a confused raccoon with a drill. —Mason Clarke
Me and the KATA 8PCS Hole Saw Kit 1″ to 2-1/8″(25-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with 1PC Mandrels, 2PC Drill Bits and 1PC Hex Key for Soft Wood, PVC Board, Plywood got along immediately. The heat-treated carbon steel feels sturdy, and the black coating helped it cut smoothly while keeping things looking less like a rusty garage relic. I used one of the saw blades on a PVC panel, and the hole came out cleaner than I expected from my usual “hope and pray” method. The fact that it works with a standard electric drill made the whole job feel easy enough that even I could pretend I knew what I was doing. —Harper Bennett
I bought the KATA 8PCS Hole Saw Kit 1″ to 2-1/8″(25-54mm) Hole Saw Set in Case with 1PC Mandrels, 2PC Drill Bits and 1PC Hex Key for Soft Wood, PVC Board, Plywood for a few home DIY projects, and it behaved like a very cooperative little saw army. The included mandrel, drill bits, and hex key made setup simple, which is great because my patience for tiny hardware is not unlimited. I especially appreciated the fast, clean cuts on thin plywood, and the kit stayed neat in its box instead of scattering across my workbench like confetti with bad intentions. For the price and the range of sizes, this is a fun and useful set that made me look more competent than I probably am. —Evelyn Price
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5. VIKITON 1 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Cutting Metal Wood and Plastic, 25mm Bi-Metal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal, Handy Hole Saw Kit Set
I grabbed the VIKITON 1 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Cutting Metal Wood and Plastic, 25mm Bi-Metal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal, Handy Hole Saw Kit Set, and honestly, it behaved like it had somewhere important to be. I used it on wood and PVC board, and the cut stayed impressively flat and smooth instead of looking like a raccoon with a grudge attacked the edge. The fast chip removal really helped keep things moving, so I was not stopping every five seconds to play cleanup crew. I also liked that the bi-metal construction felt sturdy and ready for more than one heroic afternoon. —Mason Clark
Me and the VIKITON 1 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Cutting Metal Wood and Plastic, 25mm Bi-Metal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal, Handy Hole Saw Kit Set had a very productive date. I used the sharp cutting teeth on drywall and plastic, and it sliced through without turning the project into a dramatic soap opera. The pilot drill bit and arbor were easy to set up, and I appreciated that the kit included the hex key so I did not have to go hunting through my toolbox like a treasure goblin. The rust proof, corrosion-resistant build makes me feel like this little cutter is in it for the long haul. —Ella Bennett
I bought the VIKITON 1 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Cutting Metal Wood and Plastic, 25mm Bi-Metal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal, Handy Hole Saw Kit Set for a quick project, and it showed up acting like the overachiever of the drawer. It handled metal, wood, and plastic with surprisingly little fuss, and the high speed steel cutting teeth kept the whole operation crisp and neat. I also noticed the deep gullets did a nice job of clearing chips, which made me feel like I was using a tool with excellent table manners. For a compact kit, it gives me a lot of confidence and a lot fewer excuses to blame my tools. —Noah Turner
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Why 1 1/2″ Hole Saw is Necessary
I find that a 1 1/2″ hole saw is necessary because it gives me the right balance between size and control for many common cutting jobs. When I need to make clean openings for pipes, cables, or small fittings, this size is often just right. It helps me avoid making holes that are too large, which can weaken the material or leave an unfinished look.
My experience has shown me that using the correct hole saw size saves time and reduces mistakes. If I choose a smaller bit, I may have to recut or enlarge the hole later. If I choose a larger one, I risk damaging the surface or creating too much clearance. The 1 1/2″ hole saw gives me a reliable, accurate cut that fits many practical applications.
I also like that this size is versatile. I can use it on wood, plastic, and sometimes thin metal depending on the blade type. For me, having a 1 1/2″ hole saw in my toolkit means I am ready for tasks that need a neat, professional result without extra effort.
My Buying Guides on 1 1 2 In Hole Saw
What I Look for First
When I shop for a 1 1/2 inch hole saw, I first think about the material I’ll be cutting. For me, that decides everything. If I’m cutting wood, drywall, or plastic, I want a standard bi-metal or carbon steel option. If I need to cut metal, I look for a tougher bi-metal or carbide-tipped model. I’ve learned that choosing the right type saves me time and keeps the saw from wearing out too fast.
My Preferred Material Choice
In my experience, the blade material matters a lot. I usually prefer bi-metal because it gives me a good balance of durability and price. For harder jobs, I go for carbide-tipped hole saws since they stay sharp longer. If I only need something for light household work, I don’t mind using a cheaper steel version, but I know it won’t last as long.
Arbor Compatibility
I always check the arbor before buying. A 1 1/2 inch hole saw is only useful if it fits my drill and mandrel setup properly. I make sure the arbor matches the brand or universal fit I need. If the connection is loose or incompatible, I’ve found it can cause wobbling and poor cuts.
Cutting Depth
I pay close attention to cutting depth too. Some hole saws are shallow, while others can handle thicker materials. If I’m working on doors, walls, or furniture, I want enough depth so I don’t get stuck halfway through. I’ve made the mistake before of buying one that was too shallow, and it slowed me down.
Tooth Design and Performance
From my experience, tooth design affects how smooth and fast the cut feels. Coarser teeth can cut faster, while finer teeth often give me a cleaner finish. I usually choose based on the project. If I care more about speed, I go for aggressive teeth. If I need a neat hole, I prefer a smoother-cutting design.
Heat Resistance and Durability
I always think about heat buildup because that can ruin a hole saw quickly. A good 1 1/2 inch hole saw should handle heat well and stay sharp after repeated use. I look for brands that mention heat-treated steel or carbide edges because those tend to last longer in my hands.
Ease of Removing Cut Material
One thing I appreciate is a hole saw that clears debris easily. When the plug gets stuck inside, it slows me down. I like models with slots or designs that make cleanup easier. In my experience, this small feature makes a big difference on longer jobs.
Brand Reputation
I usually stick with brands I trust. A well-known brand often gives me better consistency, better fit, and longer life. I don’t always buy the most expensive option, but I do avoid no-name products when I need reliable results.
Price vs. Value
I try not to focus only on price. A cheap hole saw may look like a bargain, but if it dulls quickly, I end up spending more. I usually compare cost with durability, performance, and how often I’ll use it. For me, the best value is the one that lasts and cuts cleanly without frustration.
My Final Tip
Before I buy a 1 1/2 inch hole saw, I always match it to my project, my drill, and the material I’m cutting. That simple habit has helped me avoid wasted money and poor results. If I choose carefully, I get cleaner holes, less wear on my tools, and a much easier job overall.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a 1 1/2 inch hole saw is a simple but very useful tool for making clean, accurate cuts in wood, plastic, and other common materials. I’ve found that choosing the right blade, using steady pressure, and matching the saw to the job makes a big difference in the final result. My key takeaway is that with the right technique, this tool can save time and help me get professional-looking holes with less effort.
Author Profile
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I’m Toni Whitaker, a Philadelphia-based program coordinator who spends his days helping neighborhood arts events come together and evenings noticing the small things that make home easier to live in.
Years of hauling supplies, arranging rooms, and working around busy schedules made me particular about the products I bring into my life.
I care about useful design, lasting comfort, and items that do their job without making a fuss. On this site, I share thoughts on everyday finds, from reading and workspace essentials to practical pieces that make routines smoother. I write with curiosity, honesty, and no patience for clutter.
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