Lenox hole saw kit?

[Jason280]

What's the general consensus on Lenox hole saw kits? I picked up the 13pc kit last week, but haven't had a chance to try it out yet. I mainly want to use it on mild steel and aluminum, how well do the bits hold up?

 

[MJD1]

Should be no problem. I have the same set, has held up well. Use a good cutting oil on steel, and wax on aluminum.

 

[BFBOB]

I've used various Lenox cutters over the years - hole saws and Sawzall blades mostly. They work just fine. MJD1 is right about lubricants, though it's advice I rarely follow outside of the shop. A squirt of WD40 isn't ideal, but it does help.

 

[The Cobbler]

Lenox is a fine brand

 

[Ainsley]

I don't have any experience with them, I've used greenlee, Morris and starrett. A pipe fitter buddy that does fire protective sprinkler systems swears they are the best. He drills holes in pipe for victaulic taps all day long and says they last the longest.

 

[Alchymist]

I've used various Lenox cutters over the years - hole saws and Sawzall blades mostly. They work just fine. MJD1 is right about lubricants, though it's advice I rarely follow outside of the shop. A squirt of WD40 isn't ideal, but it does help.

Got some of the Lenox cutters, work as good as anything else I've tried, beter than some.

Don't laugh when you read this, but Windex window cleaner works really well when using them in aluminum. Just keep lightly spraying. Turns the chips to a mud consistency, rolls it out of the hole, and cools the cutter. Back out occasionally on thick stuff, and hose it down with the Windex. Works a charm.

 

[Richard Cranium]

I have used them for years and never had a problem

 

[Jason280]

Thanks for the information. I picked the set up for $40, which I didn't think was too bad...I don't think but one of the bits was actually ever used, the rest still have all the paint in place.

 

[dutchgray]

I like them because they are deep enough to go through 2x in one go and they have thought about how you get the plug out after. That said most of my hole saws are Bosch quick change ones.

 

[sberry]

I use water on steel all the time.

 

[Jason280]

I need to pick up some cutting fluid for them, not sure the waste oil I've been using for drill bits will be adequate...definitely don't want to burn them up!

 

[sberry]

People seem to accept using up a 10$ grinding wheel but pizz themselves if they got to replace an 8$ bit. They do and can last a long while but to me they are replaceable if needed. Sometimes putting a dollar or 2 per big ole hole is rather insignificant.
I wrecked a 4 inch the other day on of all things a piece of light alum sheet, ripped the teeth right off.
Old **** oil is so messy, A few drops of rapid tap or tap magic is ideal and needs just a pinch per 1/8 of steel and on most occasions I simply use water. Sawed 2 holes in 1/2 plate the other day, did it with water and about a minute or so a piece.

 

[Finky198]

I have the starrett brand and have also used the Lenox as well as their saw blades. I have never had a problem.
Just use the right speed and lube and u will be fine...

 

[Outlawmws]

Lennox is good stuff. So is Starrett, Capwell, Greenlee and many others. stick with US or EU made hole saws and you should have no issues.

 

[motofool33]

i never would have thought those hole saws worked on thick steel

 

[Outlawmws]

I've used them where I had to cut from both sides to complete the hole.. takes time.. (and a lot of the proper cutting lube)