Whats a good way to make a 3 inch hole half way through a board?

Question

right now I am using a router but that isn't very precise and takes a while. what I am trying to do is make a circle 3 inches in diameter about 1/4 inch deep, into a board that is 1 inch thick. any idea's?

Answer 1

forstner bits are good for that kind of stuff but Im not sure if you can get one that big. If you have a 3 inch hole saw you could drill that into the board a quarter inch, and than cut the rest out with a router than you would itleast have a precise circle outline to go by.

edit: yes the pilot bit would go all the way, sorry I wasnt very specific but what I meant to say was use it in a drill press with no pilot.

Answer 2

I'd suggest a saw tooth bit... very similar to a Forstner bit, but made for larger diameters.  It leaves just a small dimple in the center of the cup.  You can get one from Rockler for about $21... here is the link - http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=...

Oh, yes,... with this type of bit, its best to use it in a drill press, where you can set a depth stop.  (drill press is also more stable than trying to 'free hand' it with a hand drill.

Have Fun

Answer 3

Sounds like router and template time to me.

Answer 4

you can order a forstner bit that big , but you may need the internet to find it...

Answer 5

Use a hole saw.  The pilot bit on a hole saw will ordinarily penetrate all the way through, but if this is objectionable, you can get a hole saw with an adjustable pilot bit that will extend only slightly farther than the main kerf.