How do I drill a 3 inch hole in plywood?

Question

I have a 3 inch bit (just like the ones you would use for drilling a hole for doorknobs). It is supposed to work for wood/metal. I am just trying to drill through 1/2 inch plywood and the bit keeps grabbing. I get just a little ways into it and the bit grabs and the drill twists so hard I'm afraid it will break my wrists. I've tried fast and slow and I've tried putting pressure and not putting much pressure at all. What am I doing wrong?

Answer 1

Be sure to use a slow drill speed....and take your time!

If you rotate the hole saw so it only cuts on 1/4 of the hole saw at a time, that will reduce binding as well.You are cutting a large area. It takes a lot of torque to do it, so don't be surprised if your cordless battery discharges faster. You will find out as well if you have a dull bit as well.

There!

Done!

Answer 2

If the bit grabs so that the drill twists out of your hand, then it has to be one or two things. Either you are still putting too much forward pressure on the bit as you are drilling, or you aren't holding the drill straight enough. I have drilled many large holes using hole saws, & the larger the bit, the greater the skill is required at keeping the drill straight. I use a drill with a variable speed, & ratchet, so if you have those set the drill at a lower ratchet, & drill at a lower speed so you don't run the risk of injury to your wrist & hand.

Answer 3

It's time to get out the jigsaw.

Answer 4

TROUBLE SHOOTING ANSWERS

1 The bit may be dull change and get another bit

2 hold the drill tight with both hands use all your strength to hold it steady

3 Get a 3inch bit and drill a few of small holes in the 3inch hole

Good Luck

Answer 5

You are probably tilting the bit as it goes.  If you have a drill press, use that, otherwise, it's all technique.  Keep the bit going in the same path.

Answer 6

Take it slow and keep the drill straight up and down with your work. If that doesn't work, turn the plywood over and come in from the other side, I assume your hole saw has a pilot bit.

Answer 7

plywood is lying down? well supported you may be having trouble because the bit is going through before the rest of it.secure a 2*4 under the spot you are drilling and try again. this may help. good luck.

Answer 8

is it turning to the right ? clock wise , use a high speed, 1/2 inch should be a breeze to drill thru.

its a hole saw right ?

Answer 9

Are you using a new or used 3" hole saw? If it's used, check to see if the cutting edge is still there. Maybe someone used it to cut metal and wore the teeth down. Good luck!

Answer 10

try  a hole saw