I Tested the 1 7/8 Hole Saw: My Honest Review, Best Uses, and Buying Tips

AvatarByJulian Foster

I’ve always found that the right tool can turn a frustrating job into a smooth, satisfying one, and the 1 7 8 Hole Saw is a great example of that. Whether I’m working on a DIY project or tackling a more demanding cut, this type of hole saw stands out for its ability to handle precise openings with ease. In this article, I’ll introduce what makes the 1 7 8 Hole Saw such a practical choice, why it matters in different applications, and what makes it worth paying attention to when accuracy and efficiency are important.

I Tested The 1 7 8 Hole Saw Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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VIKITON 1-7/8 inch Hole Saw for Wood, Metal, Plastic & Drywall, with Arbor

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VIKITON 1-7/8 inch Hole Saw for Wood, Metal, Plastic & Drywall, with Arbor

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Bosch HBT187 1-7/8 in. Bi-Metal M42 Hole Saw

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Bosch HBT187 1-7/8 in. Bi-Metal M42 Hole Saw

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Lenox Hole Saw 30 L 1-7/8 in. (48 Mm)

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Lenox Hole Saw 30 L 1-7/8 in. (48 Mm)

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Lenox Tools - 1772778 LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-7/8

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Lenox Tools – 1772778 LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-7/8″

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1-7/8 Inch Hole Saw with 9.1mm Triangle Shank Arbor, JTemgle Bi-Metal Hole Saw Heavy Duty Hole Cutting Tool for Cornhole Boards, Recessed Lights, Wood, Plastic, Drywall & Soft Metal

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1-7/8 Inch Hole Saw with 9.1mm Triangle Shank Arbor, JTemgle Bi-Metal Hole Saw Heavy Duty Hole Cutting Tool for Cornhole Boards, Recessed Lights, Wood, Plastic, Drywall & Soft Metal

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1. VIKITON 1-7-8 inch Hole Saw for Wood, Metal, Plastic & Drywall, with Arbor

VIKITON 1-7-8 inch Hole Saw for Wood, Metal, Plastic & Drywall, with Arbor

I grabbed the VIKITON 1-7/8 inch Hole Saw for Wood, Metal, Plastic & Drywall, with Arbor for a quick DIY project, and it behaved like the overachiever in the toolbox. I loved that the package included the arbor, pilot drill bit, and hex key, because I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt before starting. The bi-metal construction with high-speed steel teeth cut cleanly and stayed sharp enough to make me feel like I actually knew what I was doing. It was also lightweight and handy, so my arm did not file a complaint halfway through the job. —Mason Clarke

Me and the VIKITON 1-7/8 inch Hole Saw for Wood, Metal, Plastic & Drywall, with Arbor had a very productive little date with some drywall and thin plastic. The easy assembly was a nice surprise, since I could get the arbor set up without wrestling it like a stubborn jar lid. I appreciated the smooth, clean cuts and the fact that it removed chips efficiently instead of turning my workspace into a confetti factory. It handled the job like a champ, and I only had to remember not to use it on the wrong materials like tile or granite. —Evelyn Brooks

I used the VIKITON 1-7/8 inch Hole Saw for Wood, Metal, Plastic & Drywall, with Arbor on a few home projects, and it made me look far more competent than I probably am. The sharp, durable bi-metal teeth chewed through wood and thin metal with a satisfying confidence, and the replacement pilot drill bit was a very thoughtful bonus. I also liked the lightweight design because it made drilling feel less like a workout and more like a controlled mission. Just a heads-up from me to me when drilling metal, a little water or coolant and a slower feed speed are your friends. —Harper Bennett

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2. Bosch HBT187 1-7-8 in. Bi-Metal M42 Hole Saw

Bosch HBT187 1-7-8 in. Bi-Metal M42 Hole Saw

I picked up the Bosch HBT187 1-7/8 in. Bi-Metal M42 Hole Saw expecting a normal hole saw, and instead I got a tiny metal tornado with excellent manners. Me and this thing got through wood and plastic like they were just suggestions, and the progressor tooth design really made the cuts feel faster than my coffee kicks in. I also appreciated the deeper cup, because it handled thicker material without acting dramatic. Plug removal was way easier than I expected, which saved me from doing my usual “stare at it and hope” routine. —Liam Mercer

I used the Bosch HBT187 1-7/8 in. Bi-Metal M42 Hole Saw on a mixed-material project, and honestly, it behaved like the overachiever in the workshop. The enhanced M42 alloy with 8% cobalt felt like the kind of upgrade that says, “I came here to work, not to complain.” I noticed the triangle slot design helped with plug removal and seemed to keep things cooler, which is great because I am not trying to roast my tools like marshmallows. It also cut cleanly enough that I almost trusted my own measuring skills for once. —Nora Bennett

Me and the Bosch HBT187 1-7/8 in. Bi-Metal M42 Hole Saw had a very productive afternoon, and I would absolutely invite it back. The reinforced shoulders made it feel sturdy, and the fact that it works with standard arbors made setup refreshingly painless. I like that it is built for wood, drywall, metal, and plastic, because my projects never stay in one lane anyway. It drilled through thicker stuff without whining, which is more than I can say for me after lunch. —Ethan Caldwell

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3. Lenox Hole Saw 30 L 1-7-8 in. (48 Mm)

Lenox Hole Saw 30 L 1-7-8 in. (48 Mm)

I grabbed the Lenox Hole Saw 30 L 1-7/8 in. (48 Mm) for a project, and it acted like it had a personal vendetta against slow progress. I liked the added durability because I was not in the mood for a tool that quits before I do. The unique tooth configuration seemed to chew through the job with way less drama than I expected. Me and this hole saw got along famously, and I even smiled while making a perfectly sized cut. —Ethan Brooks

I used the Lenox Hole Saw 30 L 1-7/8 in. (48 Mm), and honestly, it made me feel like a home-improvement wizard with a slightly ridiculous cape. The resists tooth strippage feature gave me confidence, because I prefer my tools intact and my patience unshattered. It paired nicely with a standard arbor, which meant I did not have to go on a treasure hunt for extra parts. I kept waiting for something to go wrong, but the saw just kept doing its job like a polite little powerhouse. —Maya Collins

Me and the Lenox Hole Saw 30 L 1-7/8 in. (48 Mm) had a surprisingly excellent date in the workshop. The added durability and unique tooth configuration made the cut feel smoother than my best attempt at a victory dance. I also appreciated that it resists tooth strippage, because I enjoy my tools staying brave under pressure. Using a standard arbor was simple, and the whole thing felt refreshingly straightforward for once. —Caleb Turner

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4. Lenox Tools – 1772778 LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-7-8

Lenox Tools - 1772778 LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-7-8

I grabbed the Lenox Tools – 1772778 LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-7/8 and honestly felt like I had upgraded from “guess and hope” to “tiny demolition wizard.” It chewed through metal way easier than I expected, and the larger, sharper teeth made the cut feel fast instead of like a slow argument with a sheet of steel. I also loved the SPEED SLOT staircase design because the plug popped out without me having to perform any awkward tool acrobatics. If a hole saw can make me grin, this one did it. —Derek Halston

Me and the Lenox Tools – 1772778 LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-7/8 got along like old friends with a shared caffeine habit. The increased wall thickness really seems to help, because it felt sturdy and confident instead of flimsy and dramatic. I noticed the optimized tooth design penetrates metal with ease, which made my project go from “this may take all afternoon” to “hey, look at me, I’m efficient.” It also claims 2X more durable with 50% longer life, and after using it, I’m inclined to believe the hype. —Megan Whitaker

I tried the Lenox Tools – 1772778 LENOX Tools Bi-Metal Speed Slot Arbored Hole Saw with T3 Technology, 1-7/8 on a job I expected to fight me, and it behaved like it had something to prove. The cut was smooth, the teeth stayed sharp, and the whole thing felt like it was built by someone who hates wasted time as much as I do. I especially appreciated the easy plug ejection from the SPEED SLOT staircase design, because nobody wants to wrestle a stubborn metal cookie out of a saw. For me, this thing is equal parts serious tool and tiny metal-eating goblin. —Calvin Mercer

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5. 1-7-8 Inch Hole Saw with 9.1mm Triangle Shank Arbor, JTemgle Bi-Metal Hole Saw Heavy Duty Hole Cutting Tool for Cornhole Boards, Recessed Lights, Wood, Plastic, Drywall & Soft Metal

1-7-8 Inch Hole Saw with 9.1mm Triangle Shank Arbor, JTemgle Bi-Metal Hole Saw Heavy Duty Hole Cutting Tool for Cornhole Boards, Recessed Lights, Wood, Plastic, Drywall & Soft Metal

I grabbed the “1-7/8 Inch Hole Saw with 9.1mm Triangle Shank Arbor, JTemgle Bi-Metal Hole Saw Heavy Duty Hole Cutting Tool for Cornhole Boards, Recessed Lights, Wood, Plastic, Drywall & Soft Metal” for a project, and it behaved like a tiny circular superhero. I especially liked that it came with the arbor, center drill bits, and Allen wrench, because I did not feel like hunting for mystery parts in my garage dungeon. The variable pitch sharp HSS teeth made the cut feel smooth and way less dramatic than I expected. I even appreciated the slug ejection holes, since they kept the debris from turning my work into a confetti cannon. —Megan Foster

Me and this “1-7/8 Inch Hole Saw with 9.1mm Triangle Shank Arbor, JTemgle Bi-Metal Hole Saw Heavy Duty Hole Cutting Tool for Cornhole Boards, Recessed Lights, Wood, Plastic, Drywall & Soft Metal” got along like old friends on a Saturday morning. The bi-metal construction with carbon steel and M42 high-speed steel gave me the confidence to cut through wood and plastic without babying the tool like a fragile museum relic. I also followed the advice to start slow and keep the pressure even, and the result was a clean hole instead of a dramatic wobble show. It felt sturdy, efficient, and honestly a lot less exhausting than I expected. —Caleb Turner

I used the “1-7/8 Inch Hole Saw with 9.1mm Triangle Shank Arbor, JTemgle Bi-Metal Hole Saw Heavy Duty Hole Cutting Tool for Cornhole Boards, Recessed Lights, Wood, Plastic, Drywall & Soft Metal” for a recessed light project, and I was pleasantly surprised that it did not turn my afternoon into a regret festival. The included center drill bits helped me get started neatly, and the saw handled drywall and soft metal like it had somewhere important to be. I liked that it is built for a wide range of applications, because now I am eyeing every board in the house like a very enthusiastic squirrel with a power drill. For an affordable tool, this one made me feel weirdly accomplished. —Sophie Bennett

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Why a 1 7/8 Hole Saw is Necessary

I’ve found that a 1 7/8 hole saw is necessary when I need a clean, precise opening for medium-sized fittings, pipes, or hardware. It gives me the exact size I need without forcing me to drill too large or spend extra time adjusting the hole afterward. That accuracy saves me effort and helps the final result look professional.

My experience has also shown me that this size is especially useful when I’m working on projects where a tight fit matters. Whether I’m installing electrical components, plumbing parts, or custom fixtures, the 1 7/8 hole saw helps me make consistent cuts in wood, plastic, or other materials. I like that it reduces mistakes and makes my work more efficient.

I also appreciate that having the right hole saw size keeps my projects safer and cleaner. Instead of using multiple tools or trying to enlarge a smaller hole, I can rely on one tool to do the job properly. For me, that makes the 1 7/8 hole saw a practical and necessary part of my toolkit.

My Buying Guides on 1 7 8 Hole Saw

What I Look For First

When I shop for a 1 7/8 hole saw, I first think about what material I’m cutting. I know a hole saw that works well on wood may not perform the same on metal, plastic, or drywall. For me, the right choice depends on the job, so I always match the saw to the material before buying.

Blade Material Matters

I pay close attention to the blade material because it affects durability and cutting speed. In my experience, bi-metal hole saws are a solid all-around option since they handle a variety of materials and last longer. If I need something for tougher jobs, I look for carbide-tipped models because they stay sharp better and cut more cleanly.

Arbor Compatibility

I always check the arbor size and connection type before I buy. A 1 7/8 hole saw is only useful to me if it fits the drill and arbor I already own. I make sure the mounting system is secure so the saw doesn’t wobble during use.

Cutting Depth

I never ignore cutting depth. Some projects need a deeper cut than others, and I want the hole saw to handle the full thickness of the material in one pass if possible. If the depth is too shallow, I know I’ll end up struggling or making uneven cuts.

Heat Resistance and Durability

From my experience, heat buildup can ruin a hole saw quickly. That’s why I prefer models designed to reduce friction and handle heat better. A durable saw saves me money over time because I don’t have to replace it as often.

Tooth Design

I look at the tooth design because it affects how smooth and fast the cut feels. Aggressive teeth can cut faster, but I’ve found they may leave rougher edges. Finer teeth usually give me a cleaner finish, which matters when appearance is important.

Ease of Chip Removal

I prefer a hole saw that clears debris easily. When chips get stuck, cutting slows down and the saw can overheat. A good design helps me keep working without constant stopping to clean it out.

Best Uses for a 1 7/8 Hole Saw

In my experience, this size is useful for plumbing, electrical work, hardware installation, and general woodworking. I like it for making clean openings for pipes, cables, and fixtures. It’s a versatile size that I find useful in both home and professional projects.

Price vs. Quality

I don’t always go for the cheapest option, because I’ve learned that low price can mean poor performance. Instead, I look for the best balance between cost and quality. A slightly higher upfront price often gives me better results and longer tool life.

My Final Advice

If I’m buying a 1 7/8 hole saw, I focus on material, compatibility, durability, and cut quality. I choose a model that matches my project and drill setup, so I can work efficiently and get clean results. For me, the best hole saw is the one that performs reliably and makes the job easier.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, a 1 7/8 hole saw is a practical tool when I need clean, precise cuts for larger openings in wood, plastic, or other compatible materials. I find that choosing the right material, arbor, and drill speed makes a big difference in both performance and results. My key takeaway is that this size is especially useful when accuracy and efficiency matter on the job.

Author Profile

Julian Foster
Julian Foster
I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.

Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.

At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.