Famag Forstner Bits & Woodworking Tools

Famag Bormax Forstner Bits & Woodworking Accessories

Famag is a precision tooling manufacturer best known among woodworkers for the Bormax line of Forstner bits. The Bormax design features a continuous rim with aggressive scoring spurs that produce exceptionally clean, flat-bottomed holes in solid wood, sheet goods, and engineered lumber. Whether you need a single bit for a specific diameter or a comprehensive set that covers the most common sizes, Famag offers both HSS and carbide-tipped versions to match your application.

HSS Bormax bits are ideal for woodworkers drilling in solid hardwood and softwood, where the alloy steel holds a sharp edge through many holes before requiring resharpening. The carbide-tipped Bormax bits are engineered for abrasive materials including MDF, particleboard, and melamine-coated sheet goods that quickly dull standard HSS tooling.

Sets, Accessories, and Specialty Items

Famag offers several set configurations, from the compact 5-piece HSS set to the comprehensive 16-piece HSS set, all housed in custom carrying cases. Extend drilling depth with Bormax extension kits, control depth precisely with the 5-piece depth stop set, and store your collection safely in the Forstner bit storage case.

Individual bits available for replacements or specific diameters
HSS versions for solid wood; carbide-tipped for sheet goods and abrasive materials
Depth stops, extension kits, and Morse taper adapters available separately
Specialty pepper mill boring kits for turning projects

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Forstner bit and what makes the Famag Bormax design different?

A Forstner bit drills flat-bottomed, clean-walled holes in woodunlike twist bits that leave a pointed bottom. The Famag Bormax uses a continuous rim with scoring spurs that reduce tearout and produce exceptionally smooth hole walls, especially at the entry and exit of the cut.

Should I choose HSS or carbide-tipped Famag Forstner bits?

HSS bits are the right choice for solid hardwood and softwood where they hold an edge well and can be resharpened. Carbide-tipped bits are better suited to MDF, particleboard, and melamine-coated sheet goods that wear HSS tooling rapidly.

What drill press speed should I use with Forstner bits?

Larger-diameter Forstner bits require slower speeds to prevent burning and ensure clean cuts. As a general rule, reduce speed as diameter increases. Refer to a speed chart for your specific drill press and bit size, and always test on scrap first.

Can Famag Forstner bits be used in a handheld drill?

Forstner bits are designed primarily for use in a drill press or in a guide jig, where the bit is held perpendicular to the surface. They can be used in a handheld drill for shallow holes but require a steady hand to avoid wandering.

What does the Famag depth stop set do?

The 5-piece Famag depth stop set mounts on Bormax bit shanks to limit drilling depth consistently, eliminating the need to rely solely on your drill press stop—useful when multiple holes must be drilled to the same depth.

What is the Famag Morse taper adapter used for?

The Morse taper adapter converts Famag bits with a 10mm hex shank to a #2 Morse taper for use in drill presses equipped with a Morse taper spindle rather than a standard chuck.

How do I extend the drilling depth of a Forstner bit?

The Famag Bormax extension kits add length to the bit shank, allowing you to drill deeper holes such as those required for bottle-opening mechanisms, pepper mills, or deep hardware mortises.

What is included in the Famag pepper mill boring kit?

The Famag pepper mill boring kits include the specialized bit configuration needed to bore the stepped, flat-bottomed holes required when turning a functional pepper mill on the lathe.

Does Infinity Tools price-match Famag Forstner bits?

Yes. Infinity Tools offers a price-match policy—visit the price-matching page to see how to submit a request.

Where can I learn best practices for drilling with Forstner bits?

The Infinity Tools learning center publishes woodworking technique articles covering drilling, bit selection, and setup tips for drill press work.

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