Fisch Black Shark Pro Forstner Bits

The main difference is the patented Fisch Wave Cutter technology. Its serrated cutting edge is designed to cut aggressively while generating considerably less heat, helping maintain the cutting edge and reduce the effort required to bore a hole. The design also provides efficient chip removal and increased stability when changing drilling direction. In hardwood, Black Shark Forstner bits are claimed to drill up to 10 times faster than conventional Forstner bits.

Wave Cutter technology is a patented serrated cutting-edge design inspired by sharkskin. Rather than relying on a conventional continuous cutting profile, the optimised edge is designed to cut efficiently while reducing heat generation. This contributes to faster drilling, lower drilling effort, improved stability and reduced heat at the cutting edge.

Yes. These bits are specifically designed to produce clean holes in both hardwood and softwood and are particularly well suited to demanding hardwood applications. Their Wave Cutter geometry, efficient chip discharge and aggressive cutting action allow them to remove material quickly while producing accurate holes with smooth sides and minimal splintering.

Yes. They are designed for accurate, flat-bottomed blind holes with smooth sides and minimal tear-out. This makes them useful for furniture making, cabinetry, joinery and other applications where a controlled-depth recess or clean blind hole is required. As with other Forstner bits, the centre point leaves a small locating mark at the centre of the hole.

The Wave Cutter design is stated to provide up to a 25% increase in performance compared with comparable bits, while Black Shark Forstner bits can drill up to 10 times faster than conventional Forstner bits in hardwood. Actual drilling performance will also depend on factors such as bit diameter, timber species, drill power, spindle speed, hole depth and feed technique.

The three flats provide the jaws of a drill chuck with secure gripping surfaces. This helps reduce the chance of the bit slipping in the chuck, particularly when drilling larger holes or working in dense timber where greater torque can be generated. Always ensure the bit is correctly inserted and the chuck is securely tightened before drilling.

A suitable handheld drill can be used for many Forstner-bit applications, provided the drill has sufficient power and the workpiece is securely clamped. A drill press is generally preferable when maximum accuracy, repeatable depth or precise alignment is required. Extra care should be taken with larger-diameter bits because they can place substantially greater torque on a handheld drill.

Secure the timber firmly, keep the bit correctly aligned and use an appropriate drilling speed for the bit diameter and material. Allow the cutting edges to do the work rather than applying excessive pressure. When boring deeper holes, periodically retract the bit to clear waste. If drilling completely through a workpiece, use a sacrificial backing board or finish the hole from the opposite face to help minimise breakout.

Forstner bits are particularly useful for furniture making, cabinetry and joinery where clean, accurately sized holes are required. Common applications include boring blind holes, creating recesses for hardware and fittings, drilling overlapping holes and producing larger-diameter holes with smooth walls. Their ability to create a controlled, flat-bottomed recess makes them especially useful where the bottom of the hole must remain substantially flat rather than tapered.