Making the Proper Hole

There’s a lot to consider when making the proper hole. It all comes down to the material being used, the size you need to create, if threading is needed and speed. With so much to consider and so many options to choose from, here are some tips to help you decide the best alternatives for making the proper hole.

Drill Bits

Being one of the most versatile tools, you are sure to have a drill and drill bits around your workspace. But that doesn’t mean you have the correct bits for the material you are using or the size to make the proper hole. Regardless of the specific application and material to be drilled, Kimball Midwest carries what you need, masonry drill bits, sheet metal drill bits, drill bits for steel and alloy steels, and wood drill bits. We also have various lengths available for varied applications. Our selection of drill bits includes a wide range of sizes and assortment options for drilling the proper hole.

Hole Cutters

If a larger hole is needed, hole cutters cut larger holes because they work faster and use less power than drill bits. Instead of cutting the material from the center outward, hole cutters cut around the perimeter of where the hole will be formed, converting less material into cut chips and getting the job done much faster.

Hole Saws

Hole saws are perfect for plumbing and electrical applications. These saws provide deeper and faster cuts, and user fatigue is minimized through a reduction in vibration. Our new hole saws come in a 9 pc. Easy Core Hole Saw or 13 pc. Easy Core Hole Saw kit. The kits have a shatterproof design to cut through steel, stainless steel and other metals, pipe, nail embedded wood, floors, plywood and plastics. They also are equipped with quick release for easy size changes and have fast core ejection.

Taps and Dies

Taps and dies are used for cutting threads. Taps create internal (female) threads, and dies cut the external (male) threads.

Reamers and Step Drills

Reamers can be used in a hand drill (please use one with a side handle for safety) to enlarge a smaller pilot hole made with a drill bit. They cut cleanly and efficiently, deburring, enlarging and aligning holes. As with other cutting tools, a cutting tool lubricant is recommended for use with reamers.

Step drills have a conical shape with a series of cutting tool “steps” that make increasingly larger holes as you progress down the steps. Designed for metalwork, they can also be used for laminates, rigid plastics and other materials. The Ultra Bit Step Drill is useful when drilling into thin materials, like sheet metal, that might bend or buckle. One bit can produce up to 13 hole sizes and can be used with a portable drill or drill press.

Annular Cutters

Annular cutters are perfect for cutting into metal. Their stack-cut geometry allows cutting multiple plates of steel with one operation. Whether you are drilling pipes or tubes, you are guaranteed an easier and more efficient experience, and your results will be more consistent. 

No matter the size, material or application needed, Kimball Midwest has the tools to make the proper hole. If you are interested in any of our cutting tools listed above or which tool would be best for your application, please reach out to your Kimball Midwest sales representative today. If you do not have a rep, we can help you today.