Dry Wood Borer Page

	Click to enlarge any photo.
	Three parts comprise the kit, including the borer shaft (top), the extractor (middle), and the guide plate (bottom).

	The shaft itself has holes drilled every 1.0" (25 mm) to help gauge the drilling depth.

	The tip of the borer was designed to remove the appropriate amount of wood while ensuring the core could be easily extracted.

	An unsanded core (top) after extraction, and a sanded core (bottom).

Description

The tool is made of alloy steel and has a hard, thin, low-friction and rust-resistant nitrite coating on both the inside and outside. It is normal for this finish to wear off after some use. The teeth have been sharpened and have the proper set to provide the desired clearance between the wood core and the borer bit. This dry-bore tool will cut an approximate 0.5 inch (13 mm) diameter hole and will leave a core having a diameter of approximately 3/8 inches (~ 9 mm). The maximum hole depth that can be drilled is slightly less than 10 inches (250 mm). Holes in the borer are spaced at 1.0 inch (25 mm) increments. These provide a way for determining the approximate drill depth, and also allow the collection of sawdust away from the wood core. The drill guide is made of low-friction polyethylene and the extractor is made of tool steel.

To learn more about how to use our dry wood borer, be sure to read our online tutorial.

Approximate coring time

This depends on the type of hardwood, but rates range from 30 seconds to 1.5 minutes per one inch (2.5 cm) of core depth.

Intended Use

This tool can be used in any drill having a capacity of 3/8 inches (~9 mm) or larger. Because the tool is intended to be operated at a relatively slow speed, a variable speed drill is necessary. The drill should only be used for coring wood. Under no circumstances should this tool be used to drill metal of any type.

Instructions for Use

Attach the polyethylene guide plate to the wood beam, timber, or structure that is to be cored. Use two screws having a length of at least 3/4 inches (~ 19 mm) to attach the guide plate. Place the cutting end of the tool inside the guide plate and use gentle pressure to hold the borer to the wood. Start the drill at low speed. Frequently remove the tool from the hole to remove sawdust and to cool the cutting tool. Canned air spray can be used to help blow out sawdust that remains next to the wood core while it is still attached. Run the tool at a relatively low speed, approximately 200 rpm. Operating the borer with unnecessary speed will cause excessive heat and will burn the wood and could overheat the tool. After using the tool, we recommend that it be wiped clean with a lightly oiled rag and WD-40.

Once the hole has been drilled to the desired depth, gently insert the extractor by sliding it alongside the wood core to the bottom of the hole. Gently twist the extractor cutting edge to cut into the core at its base where it remains attached. Move the extractor to a slightly different position around the core and again twist the extractor into the core. Do this as often as needed to loosen the core. Take your time and use gentle pressure to avoid breaking the cutting tip of the extractor.

Safety Considerations

Safety considerations that are published for the power drill must be followed. The following are additional safety precautions that should be observed.

Always start the coring operation using the drill guide. Without the drill guide, the tool is unstable and can cause personal injury.
Use appropriate eye protection, gloves and protective work clothing.
Do not use this tool while wearing loose clothing.
Tie up any long hair that is not covered.
Do not use unnecessary speed and/or too much pressure. This can cause excessive heat and may start a fire.
Do not touch the tool immediately after cutting as it may be hot and could cause a serous burn.

Purchase the Dry Wood Borer Kit

To purchase the kit, click here for North American orders, or click here for International orders.