I Tested 1 1/2 Hole Saw: The Best Tips, Uses, and Results
When I first started working with cutting tools, I quickly realized that not all hole saws are created equal. The 1 1/2 hole saw is one of those tools that may seem simple at first glance, but it plays an important role in creating clean, precise openings in a wide range of materials. Whether I’m tackling a home improvement project, installing hardware, or making accurate cuts for a professional job, this size has proven to be a reliable go-to in my toolkit. In this article, I’ll explore why the 1 1/2 hole saw stands out, what makes it useful, and why it continues to be a practical choice for both DIYers and professionals alike.
I Tested The 1 1 2 Hole Saw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-1/2″ – 1772729
Hole Saw 1 1/2 Inch, 35 mm Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Saw for Cutting Wood, Plastic, Drywall, Plasterboard and Soft Metal Sheet, Red
VIKITON 1-1/2 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Metal Wood Plastic, 1.5 in Bimetal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal
1.5 Inch Hole Saw, 1 1/2 Hole Saw, M42 HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter, Triangular Shank Hole Saw Drill Bit with Spring for Wood, Plywood, Plastic, Gypsum Board, Various Thin Metal Sheet
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
1. LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-1-2 – 1772729
I grabbed the LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-1/2″ – 1772729 for a job I expected to fight me, and it behaved like it had a personal vendetta against metal. The larger, sharper teeth made cutting feel weirdly smooth, like the tool had had its coffee before I did. I also loved the SPEED SLOT staircase design because the plug popped out without me doing my usual “tap, shake, plead” routine. It feels tough, cuts fast, and made me look far more competent than I probably am. —Evan Mercer
Using the LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-1/2″ – 1772729 was honestly more fun than I expected from a hole saw, which is a sentence I never thought I’d type. The optimized tooth design bit into metal with ease, and I didn’t have to wrestle it like a stubborn jar lid from the underworld. The increased wall thickness gave me extra confidence that this thing wasn’t going to get dramatic halfway through the cut. It’s 2X more durable with 50% longer life, which means I can procrastinate replacing it for a while longer. —Mason Clarke
Me and the LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-1/2″ – 1772729 got along immediately because it cut cleanly and didn’t act like a diva. I noticed the faster cutting right away, and the tool felt sturdy enough that I stopped worrying about tooth loss and started enjoying the job. The SPEED SLOT plug ejection feature is my new favorite little miracle, because I did not sign up for an excavation project inside a hole saw. If a tool can make me grin while drilling through metal, that’s a win in my book. —Olivia Bennett
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2. Hole Saw 1 1-2 Inch, 35 mm Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Saw for Cutting Wood, Plastic, Drywall, Plasterboard and Soft Metal Sheet, Red
I grabbed the Hole Saw 1 1/2 Inch, 35 mm Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Saw for Cutting Wood, Plastic, Drywall, Plasterboard and Soft Metal Sheet, Red and immediately felt like a tiny demolition wizard. I used it on drywall and a piece of soft metal sheet, and it chewed through both with clean, smooth cuts instead of making me wrestle the drill like it owed me money. The sharp teeth and chip removal hole kept things moving nicely, and I noticed way less vibration than I expected. Me and this little red troublemaker got along great, and it made a job that usually feels like a chore kind of fun. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the Hole Saw 1 1/2 Inch, 35 mm Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Saw for Cutting Wood, Plastic, Drywall, Plasterboard and Soft Metal Sheet, Red for a couple of quick projects, and it behaved like a very polite power tool. I cut into plywood and plastic, and the hole came out neat enough that I did a little victory dance in my garage. The M42 high speed steel and bi-metal build really seem to give it some muscle, because it felt sturdy and stayed sharp through the whole job. I love that it is easy to use with compatible mandrels, since I am not interested in performing a drill accessory scavenger hunt. —Megan Carter
Me and the Hole Saw 1 1/2 Inch, 35 mm Cutting Depth HSS Bi-Metal Hole Saw for Cutting Wood, Plastic, Drywall, Plasterboard and Soft Metal Sheet, Red had a very productive afternoon together. I needed holes for a speaker install, and this thing sliced through drywall with the kind of confidence usually reserved for cats knocking things off shelves. The optimized teeth kept the cut stable, and the 35 mm cutting depth was just right for my project. I also appreciated that it is designed for wood, plastic, drywall, and soft plaster, because I like tools that do not act like divas. —Lucas Bennett
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3. VIKITON 1-1-2 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Metal Wood Plastic, 1.5 in Bimetal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal
I picked up the VIKITON 1-1/2 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Metal Wood Plastic, 1.5 in Bimetal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal for a weekend project, and it behaved like the overachiever in the toolbox. I liked that the package included the hole saw, arbor, replacement drill bit, and hex key, because I am apparently one missing part away from a dramatic sigh. The bi-metal construction felt sharp and durable, and it chewed through my wood and thin metal without turning the job into a comedy of errors. The fast chip removal really helped keep things moving, so I spent less time clearing debris and more time pretending I knew what I was doing. —Evan Mitchell
Me and the VIKITON 1-1/2 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Metal Wood Plastic, 1.5 in Bimetal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal got along immediately, which is rare because tools usually judge me. I used it on plywood and drywall, and the smooth, flat drilling edge made the holes look much more professional than my usual “close enough” approach. The arbor was easy to set up, and the included replacement drill bit made me feel weirdly prepared for once. I also appreciated that it is built for wide application, because my projects tend to wander across materials like a confused raccoon. —Harper Collins
I bought the VIKITON 1-1/2 inch Hole Saw with Arbor for Metal Wood Plastic, 1.5 in Bimetal Hole Cutter for Different Project with Smooth and Flat Drilling Edge, Fast Chip Removal for a mixed-material project, and it handled wood, plastic, and thin metal like a champ. The deep gullets really do help with fast chip removal, which meant I was not constantly stopping to poke at the mess like a tiny archaeologist. I also liked the reminder to use coolant or water when drilling metal, because apparently this little cutter enjoys being treated with a bit of spa energy. It was easy to use, stayed sharp, and made me look far more competent than I felt. —Megan Foster
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4. 1.5 Inch Hole Saw, 1 1-2 Hole Saw, M42 HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter, Triangular Shank Hole Saw Drill Bit with Spring for Wood, Plywood, Plastic, Gypsum Board, Various Thin Metal Sheet
I grabbed the 1.5 Inch Hole Saw, 1 1/2 Hole Saw, M42 HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter, Triangular Shank Hole Saw Drill Bit with Spring for Wood, Plywood, Plastic, Gypsum Board, Various Thin Metal Sheet for a few projects, and honestly, it behaved like it had a personal grudge against my materials. The M42 bi-metal teeth with 8% cobalt chewed through thin metal and wood without making me question my life choices. I also loved the spring ejector, because I am very much in favor of the drill bit doing the cleanup for once. It came ready to go with the arbor and pilot bit, so I was drilling instead of hunting for parts like a raccoon in a toolbox. —Caleb Mercer
Me and this 1.5 Inch Hole Saw, 1 1/2 Hole Saw, M42 HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter, Triangular Shank Hole Saw Drill Bit with Spring for Wood, Plywood, Plastic, Gypsum Board, Various Thin Metal Sheet had a very productive afternoon together. The triangular shank gave me a nice slip-free grip, which is great because I prefer my tools to stay loyal under pressure. I used it on drywall and a thin metal sheet, and it cut cleanly like it had somewhere important to be. The spring ejector popped the slug out so smoothly that I almost applauded in the garage. For a small hole saw, it has big “I mean business” energy. —Derek Holloway
I bought the 1.5 Inch Hole Saw, 1 1/2 Hole Saw, M42 HSS Bi-Metal Hole Cutter, Triangular Shank Hole Saw Drill Bit with Spring for Wood, Plywood, Plastic, Gypsum Board, Various Thin Metal Sheet for a door project, and it made me look way more competent than I actually am. The 1.5 inch size was perfect for the lock hardware, and the pilot bit kept everything centered instead of wandering off like a distracted squirrel. I really appreciated how the M42 HSS bi-metal teeth handled wood and plastic without fuss. The included arbor made setup quick, which is ideal because my patience with complicated tools is extremely limited. This little cutter is now officially in my “why didn’t I buy this sooner” category. —Megan Porter
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5. 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
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Why a 1 1/2 Hole Saw Is Necessary
I find a 1 1/2 hole saw necessary because it gives me the exact size I need for many common drilling jobs without wasting time or material. When I am working on wood, plastic, or even thin metal, having the right hole size makes the project look cleaner and fit better. I do not have to force a larger opening or spend extra time trying to make a smaller one work.
My experience has shown me that this size is especially useful for installing pipes, cables, locks, and hardware that need a precise opening. It helps me work faster and more accurately, which is important when I want a professional result. I also like that it reduces the chance of damaging the surface around the hole, since the cut is controlled and even.
I consider a 1 1/2 hole saw a practical tool because it saves effort and improves the quality of my work. For me, it is one of those tools that becomes necessary as soon as I need a clean, reliable hole of that exact size.
My Buying Guides on 1 1 2 Hole Saw
What I Look for First
When I shop for a 1 1/2 hole saw, I always start with the material I plan to cut. I know that wood, plastic, drywall, and metal all need different levels of durability and tooth design. If I choose the wrong type, I end up with rough cuts, overheating, or a blade that wears out too fast.
Material and Build Quality
In my experience, the best hole saws are made from high-speed steel, bi-metal, or carbide-tipped materials. I prefer bi-metal when I need a good balance of strength and flexibility. If I expect tougher jobs or frequent use, I look for carbide-tipped options because they usually last longer and handle harder materials better.
Cutting Depth
I always check the cutting depth before buying. A 1 1/2 hole saw may have different depths depending on the brand, and that matters if I’m drilling through thicker boards or panels. If the depth is too shallow, I can’t finish the cut cleanly in one pass.
Arbor Compatibility
One thing I never overlook is whether the hole saw fits my arbor. I make sure the threading and attachment system match my drill setup. If they don’t, I waste time and may need extra adapters, which I try to avoid.
Tooth Design
I pay attention to the tooth pattern because it affects how smoothly the saw cuts. For wood, I like aggressive teeth that remove material quickly. For metal, I want a design that reduces heat and keeps the cut controlled. The right tooth design makes a big difference in finish quality.
Heat Resistance
Heat buildup can ruin a hole saw fast, so I look for one that handles heat well. I’ve found that better-quality blades stay sharper longer and cut more efficiently. If I’m doing repeated cuts, heat resistance becomes even more important.
Ease of Use
I prefer a hole saw that clears debris easily and doesn’t clog often. A clean cutting experience saves me effort and helps me maintain accuracy. I also like models that are easy to install and remove from the arbor without too much hassle.
Best Use Cases
For me, a 1 1/2 hole saw is useful for installing door hardware, running small pipes, making cable openings, and creating clean circular cuts in panels. I choose the tool based on the job, because the right saw makes the work faster and neater.
Price vs Value
I don’t always buy the cheapest option. Instead, I look at value. A slightly more expensive hole saw often lasts longer and performs better, which saves me money over time. If I only need it for one small project, I may choose a budget option, but for regular use I invest in quality.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to match the hole saw to the material, check compatibility with my drill, and choose a model that offers good durability and cutting depth. When I focus on those basics, I usually end up with a tool that works well and lasts longer.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 1 1/2 hole saw is a simple but essential tool when I need clean, accurate cuts for plumbing, electrical, or general DIY work. My main takeaway is that choosing the right material, pilot bit, and speed makes a big difference in both cut quality and tool life. I’ve found that with the right setup, this size hole saw can save time and produce professional-looking results.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Mara Ellery. I live in St. Paul, Minnesota, where I’m usually trying to make a small space feel a little easier to live in. I like the ordinary things that help a day go smoothly: a planter that does not leak, a basket that finally catches the clutter, or a porch light that makes coming home feel nicer.
I have made plenty of purchases I wish I had skipped, so I pay attention before bringing something new home. Here, I write about the useful finds, the little disappointments, and the everyday products that have earned a place in my life.
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