Laiwei 70mm HSS bi-metal hole saw (2.7") for wood, plasterboard and metal profiles
Reviews
Product description
The essentials (what this hole saw is for)
This Laiwei 70mm hole saw is a 2.7" cutting tool designed to punch clean-ish circular holes using a drill. On paper, it’s aimed at everyday jobs where you need a larger diameter opening—things like cutting through wooden boards, plywood, plastic, and also plasterboard. It’s also listed for thin metal work such as thin aluminium profiles and thin iron sheet, plus PVC and other similar materials.
The standout angle here is the combination of materials and build: the cutting section is described as a bi‑metal design using M42 high-speed steel with a higher cobalt content, while the pilot drill (the centre bit) is made from 4341 steel. That’s the kind of construction you’d choose when you want the edge to keep performing and the tool to survive repeated drilling attempts, not just one-off DIY.
Key features that matter in use
A few details are worth paying attention to because they affect how the hole saw behaves once you start.
First, the 70mm cutting diameter is the headline size. The total length is listed as 83mm, with a blade thickness of 1.2mm, which can be helpful when you’re working with boards where you don’t want to fight a tool that’s too short or too heavy.
Second, the hole saw is described as “electron beam welded” for performance and cutting consistency. In plain terms: it’s meant to stay solid under drilling load and keep cutting efficiently rather than the teeth losing their bite too quickly.
Third, there’s a note about reducing vibrations thanks to the combined pitch. That’s not something you can see on day one, but it can make a difference when drilling larger holes (the bigger the cut, the more wobble tends to show up if technique is off).
Finally, it’s specified for drilling with a drill (including cordless). If you need high precision, the instructions mention using a drill press or a drill stand.
What you’ll notice day to day (and one limitation)
With a hole saw, the real-world experience depends heavily on your setup and feed rate.
This one advises starting at low speed and keeping the tool perpendicular to the workpiece. It also warns not to tilt the drill towards the centre. Those are the sort of precautions that quietly determine whether you get a reasonably neat hole or a messy edge that needs extra tidying.
One limitation to keep in mind: the guidance about using cutting oil or water when cutting metal suggests that metal work isn’t just “drill and forget”. If you’d rather avoid lubrication and slower control, you may find it more frustrating when the material gets tougher than timber or plasterboard.
Tech specs
- Cutting diameter: 70mm (2.7")
- Total length: 83mm
- Saw blade thickness: 1.2mm
- Shank (vástago) diameter: 10mm
- Pilot drill (taladro central) diameter: 6mm
- Pilot drill material: 4341 steel
- Saw blade material: M42 high-speed steel with high cobalt content
- Shank material: high-quality carbon steel
Getting the most from it (usage tips)
If you’re planning to drill through plasterboard or timber, the process is usually straightforward—mark your centre, start slow, and let the pilot drill stabilise the hole saw before you increase effort.
For metal (thin aluminium profiles or thin iron sheet, per the description), the instructions are more specific: start at low speed and use oil or water during cutting. Also, make sure you keep the hole saw aligned, tilting is where you lose accuracy and where the edge can bind.
Micro example: say you’re making an opening in a sheet where you’ve marked a 70mm circle. You’d begin with the drill at low speed until the teeth bite through the surface, then keep the tool straight as you continue. If you feel the cut slowing down in tougher material, don’t force it—back off slightly and re-stabilise rather than pushing at an angle.
Is it a good fit for your project?
It makes sense if you want a single 70mm hole saw that can handle a spread of common materials: wood/plywood, plasterboard, PVC, and also some thin metal jobs such as thin aluminium profiles.
You may want to skip it if your priority is maximum precision in metal without the extra care mentioned (perpendicular alignment, low-speed starting, and lubrication). Also, if you only need very small holes, this size will likely be overkill.
Worth considering if you’re happy to use a drill press or stand for careful work—especially since the instructions specifically mention precision drilling support.
Buying verdict
Final verdict
Buy this Laiwei 70mm HSS hole saw if you’ve got repeat DIY tasks that involve large circular openings and you want a tool built around bi‑metal construction (M42 with high cobalt content) rather than a basic one-and-done cutter. It’s a practical choice for wood, plasterboard, PVC and similar materials, and it can extend into thin metal profiles if you’re willing to follow the low-speed and lubrication guidance.
Avoid it if you’re after carefree metal drilling with minimal setup. Hole saws reward patience, and this one is clearly designed for users who will keep things perpendicular and take the start-up steps seriously.
Mini FAQ
What materials is this hole saw listed for?
It’s described for holes in wood, plywood, gypsum board/plasterboard, plastic, PVC and thin metal such as thin aluminium profiles and thin iron sheet.
Does it need a pilot drill?
Yes. The design includes a central pilot drill made from 4341 steel, with a listed pilot diameter of 6mm.
Can I use it with a cordless drill?
The description says it’s for use with a drill or a cordless drill.
Is a drill press necessary?
Not strictly. For high precision, it suggests using a drill press or a drill stand, which can help keep the cut perpendicular and more accurate.
Do I need oil or water for metal?
The precautions specifically say to apply cutting oil or water when cutting metal.