Can Drill Accurately Square Holes to an Established Depth

Hollow-chisel mortisers can drill accurately square holes to an easily established depth with clean edges on the entrance. But the chisel and bit can plug, burn, squeal, rattle, and generally be a royal pain if you don’t take care to tune up the assembly. That’s why it is so refreshing to find one that works great right out of the box, like the set from Charles Schmidt and Company. I tried their 1⁄2-in. set. The drill bit was cleanly sharpened, and the chisel was nicely refined on the outside and inside faces, with some of the best machining of any mortise bit I’ve seen. The chisel easily sliced through hard maple with the chips flying out of the bore opening. No muss, no fuss, and less downward pressure than I typically need to cut a mortise in maple. If you own a hollow-chisel mortiser, these bits won’t disappoint.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw

With enough power to slice through thick hardwoods, the Makita makes smooth, chip-free cuts in all materials.

Buy at Amazon

Fein Turbo II HEPA Wet/Dry Dust Extractor

Among the most powerful HEPA-rated shop vacs on the market, Fein’s Turbo II is quieter, more compact, and nimbler than the rest.

Buy at Amazon

Festool DF 500 Q-Set Domino Joiner

This joinery machine revolutionized woodworking for so many. There is no easier way to get mortise and tenon joints—but it comes at a cost.

Buy at Amazon