The Freud 1-1/4" (Dia.) Forstner Bit - Precision Shear Series is an Austrian-crafted boring tool engineered for woodworkers who demand clean, accurate, flat-bottom holes in hardwoods, softwoods, veneered plywood, solid surface materials, and composites. Unlike conventional Forstner bit designs that generate dust and fine chips that trap heat and accelerate dulling, the Precision Shear geometry uses a double-ground, razor-sharp serrated edge that continuously shears material throughout each rotation - producing smooth, splinter-free results with far less friction. Whether you are drilling pocket holes, overlapping holes, or precise flat-bottom recesses, this 1-1/4" bit delivers professional-grade cutting performance backed by Freud's Limited Lifetime Guarantee.

Key Features

• Razor-sharp serrated cutting edge - slices through wood fibers throughout the full rotation of the bit, dramatically reducing splintering and chipping for flawless, finished-quality holes that require no sanding.
• Double-ground, multiple cutting edges with unique geometric design - produces a greater shearing action that allows for faster rotational speeds and more efficient material removal, saving time on production and detail work.
• Quality forged construction - extends the working life of the bit under repeated heavy use, making it a reliable long-term investment for professional woodworkers and serious hobbyists.
• Ultra-sharp spur point - ensures the bit locates and starts accurately on the workpiece surface, preventing walk and giving you precise hole placement in hardwoods, softwoods, and engineered wood panels.
• Steep angled cutting edges - produce holes that are smooth and flat while creating chisel-like curls for fast, clean chip removal, keeping the cutting area clear and reducing heat buildup.
• 3/8" shank - fits standard drill press chucks and hand-held drill chucks for versatile use across common workshop setups.
• Freud's Limited Lifetime Guarantee - provides long-term assurance of quality and craftsmanship on every Precision Shear Forstner bit.

Why This Product

• Conventional Forstner bit designs trap small chips and dust in the cutting area, increasing friction and heat that dull the bit prematurely - the Precision Shear serrated edge design clears material efficiently with chisel-like curls, keeping the bit cooler and sharper longer.
• The 1-1/4" diameter and 3-1/2" overall length make this bit well suited for drilling flat-bottom holes, pocket holes, and overlapping holes in a wide range of materials including hardwoods, softwoods, veneered plywood, composites, and solid surface panels.
• Compatible with both a drill press and a hand-held drill, this bit gives you the flexibility to work in a fixed shop setup or on-site, without needing a dedicated machine for clean boring results.
• Backed by Freud's Limited Lifetime Guarantee and forged construction, this Precision Shear Forstner bit is built to outlast standard bits - making it a sound choice for woodworkers who need consistent, smooth-walled holes over years of repeated use.

Specifications

• Brand: Freud
• Sub-Brand: Precision Shear
• Manufacturer Part Number: PB-009
• Category: Forstner Bits
• Diameter: 1-1/4"
• Length: 3-1/2"
• Shank: 3/8"
• Rotation: RH
• Compatible Tools: Drill Press; Hand Held Drill
• Compatible Materials: Composites; Solid Surface; Veneered Plywood; Hardwoods; Softwoods
• Pack Quantity: 1
• Country of Origin: Austria

Approved Applications

• Drilling flat-bottom holes in hardwoods, softwoods, and veneered plywood panels
• Boring pocket holes for joinery and cabinet assembly
• Creating overlapping holes in composite and solid surface materials
• Precision boring in applications where smooth hole walls and a flat bottom are required without additional sanding

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Precision Shear Forstner bit different from a standard Forstner bit design?

The Precision Shear bit features a double-ground, razor-sharp serrated edge combined with a unique geometric design that has multiple cutting edges. This produces a greater shearing action throughout the full rotation of the bit. Standard Forstner bit designs create small chips and dust that collect in the cutting area, increasing friction and heat and causing the bit to dull quickly while leaving rough hole edges. The Precision Shear design removes material as chisel-like curls, reducing heat buildup and producing flawless flat-bottom holes that require no sanding.

What shank size does the PB-009 use, and which tools is it compatible with?

The Freud PB-009 has a 3/8" shank. It is compatible with both a drill press and a hand-held drill, making it a flexible option for shop and on-site woodworking applications.

What materials can this 1-1/4" Forstner bit drill through?

This bit is rated for use in composites, solid surface materials, veneered plywood, hardwoods, and softwoods. It is designed for drilling flat-bottom holes, pocket holes, and overlapping holes across these material types.

Does the Freud PB-009 come with any warranty coverage?

Yes. The Freud Precision Shear Forstner bit is backed by Freud's Limited Lifetime Guarantee, providing long-term assurance of quality and performance for the life of the tool under normal use conditions.