Drills

Top Drills and Hole Saws in the UK: A Shopper’s Guide to Expert Electrical Gear and More

Why picking the right drill bits and hole saws matters

Ever started a job feeling confident, only to be stopped dead by the wrong drill bit or a cheap hole saw that overheats like a kettle? Picking the right tool can make a weekend project feel like a breeze instead of a bout of frustration. The right bits cut cleaner, last longer, and save you time — and time is money. Whether you’re fitting Downlights, tackling roofing bolts, or fitting retrofits, the right blades and accessories change the outcome.

Who sells the good stuff in the UK?

If you’re shopping for Armeg hole saws, C.K drill bits, or a reliable pop riveter, there are several UK retailers and specialists that are worth bookmarking. Expert Electrical stocks a wide selection of trade-grade accessories, while mainstream outlets like Screwfix, Toolstation, B&Q, Wickes, Homebase, and Robert Dyas carry complementary ranges and competitive pricing. Online marketplaces such as Amazon UK are also useful for fast delivery and customer reviews, but for trade-grade reliability you’ll often find specialist electrical suppliers have the best depth.

Spotlight on Expert Electrical: trade-grade kit for pros

Expert Electrical has a reputation for stocking professional-grade items that electricians and tradespeople trust. You’ll find brands like Armeg — known for vari-pitch cobalt hole saws — and C.K, makers of quality wood and metal drill bits. If your work regularly involves installing Downlights, cutting roofing bolts, or working through sheet steel, Expert Electrical’s selection is worth a look. Think of them as a well-organized toolbox where everything is chosen for performance rather than impulse buys.

Understanding hole saw types — cobalt, vari-pitch and sheet steel

Not all hole saws are created equal. Cobalt teeth are tougher and stay sharper when cutting harder materials like stainless steel, while vari-pitch designs reduce vibration and chatter — which means cleaner holes and less fatigue. For thin metal like roofing or galvanised panels, look for a sheet-steel specific saw. For softer materials such as wood or plasterboard, specialist wood saws or multi-purpose sets do the job without overheating.

Common hole saw sizes and what they’re used for

Size matters. For example, a 2 3/4 inch hole saw is a common choice for larger Downlights and fittings, while a 2 1/2 inch saw is popular for recessed lighting trims. A 1 1/4 inch saw suits cable access and smaller fittings. If you’re installing retrofit downlights, a kit that includes multiple sizes often saves time and trips to the shop.

Products worth noting from trade ranges

Here are some of the practical items you’ll encounter and why they matter: Armeg cobalt vari-pitch hole saws in sizes around 2 3/4", 2 1/2", 4", and 2 7/8" deliver robust cutting performance for various fixtures. C.K wood drill bits around 1 1/4" are ideal for clean timber holes. An extension bar roughly 11 13/16" long lets you reach recessed screws or awkward fittings. Driver arbors and 1/4-inch roofing bolt drivers handle fixings quickly and securely. And a pop riveter is essential if you’re doing sheet-metal or cladding work without spot welds.

How extension bars and arbors speed up work

Think of an extension bar like a reaching pole for drills — it helps you access screws and fittings set deep inside fixtures or awkward angles. A driver arbor turns hole saws into a quick-change system, letting you fit hole saws onto standard drills without fuss. For roofing or cladding work, a 2 inch roofing bolt driver helps you seat fasteners faster and cleaner than trying to do it by hand.

Choosing suppliers: trade vs consumer outlets

Trade suppliers like Expert Electrical and specialist tool stores focus on durability and frequent use. Consumer chains such as B&Q and Wickes aim to balance price and accessibility, which is great for DIYers. Screwfix and Toolstation sit somewhere in between — they stock lots of trade brands and are convenient for next-day pickup. If you want trade warranty or genuine replacement parts, go specialist; if you want convenience and lower prices, high-street chains are handy.

Price vs performance — where to compromise

On items you rely on daily, such as cobalt hole saws or hexagon shank arbors, leaning towards higher quality will save you headaches. For occasional jobs, a mid-range multipack of drill bits or a universal hole saw kit might be the smarter buy. Consider resale and replacement costs: a cheap hole saw that ruins a light fitting could cost more overall than a pricier, correct-size saw that gets the job done cleanly.

Best drill bit types for common UK tasks

Wood drilling calls for brad-point or Forstner-style bits for neat, splinter-free holes. For metal, cobalt or HSS (high-speed steel) bits are standard; cobalt performs better on stainless steel. Masonry requires carbide-tipped bits. If you frequently switch between materials, a high-quality mixed set or multi-material bits give flexibility, but separate dedicated bits will always outperform a one-size-fits-all approach.

Sizes that matter for electricians and installers

Installers often reach for hole saw sizes around 2 3/4" and 2 1/2" for Downlights, 1 1/4" for cable glands and trunking, and 1/2" driver arbors for general hardware. Keeping these sizes on-hand, plus a 3/8" hexagon shank set for quick-change compatibility, will cover most fitting scenarios in domestic and commercial electrical work.

Top UK retailers to check for drills and accessories

Need a quick list? Here are reliable places to shop around: Expert Electrical for trade-oriented electrical fittings and specialist accessories; Screwfix and Toolstation for a broad trade-focused selection with good stock levels; B&Q and Wickes for DIY-friendly ranges and accessible stores; Homebase and Robert Dyas for household projects; and specialist online shops that stock Armeg and C.K branded hole saws and accessories. Comparing prices between these outlets often reveals bargains, especially during seasonal sales.

Where to find specific brands (Armeg, C.K, Levello)

Armeg products — especially their vari-pitch cobalt hole saws — are commonly found through trade electrical suppliers and some larger tool distributors. C.K (sometimes written CK) drill bits and pop riveters are widespread and sold across trade outlets and many DIY chains. Levello retrofit hole saw kits aimed at lighting installs are a niche product often sold by specialist lighting and electrical suppliers online.

Tips for clean cuts and longer tool life

Use sharp bits and the correct speed. Slower rpm for large diameters, steady pressure, and cooling pauses on metal will keep teeth sharp and reduce heat buildup. A bit of cutting oil on metal cuts reduces friction. Always clamp or stabilise the workpiece and pilot with a small bit when precision is key. If a hole saw binds, reverse the drill slowly and clear debris — forcing it risks damage to the saw and the drill motor.

Maintenance and storage — small actions, big returns

Wipe down and lightly oil metal bits after use, store them in labelled cases, and inspect for chips or deformities. Replace worn pilot bits and arbors before they cause problems. Treat your kit like a living collection: regular checks prevent mid-job failures.

Safety basics when working with hole saws and drills

PPE is non-negotiable: safety glasses, gloves when handling sharp bits, and ear protection for extended use. Secure the workpiece and keep hair and loose clothing clear of rotating parts. For larger hole saws, use a drill with a side-handle or a drill press to maintain control. If you’re working above shoulder height — think ceiling downlight installs — take extra care with ladders or scaffolding to avoid awkward angles that lead to slips.

When to call a pro

If wiring, load-bearing structures, or complex ceiling voids are involved, it’s wise to get a professional. The risk of hitting hidden services — cables, pipes, joists — is real, and the cost of a mistake can be high. For simple, non-structural work, following the safety basics should keep you in the clear.

Putting it all together: a quick shopping checklist

Before you buy, jot down the materials you’ll be cutting, the common hole sizes you need (keep those popular sizes on hand), and whether you require extension bars or driver arbors for access. Check stock at Expert Electrical for trade-grade pieces; compare prices with Screwfix, Toolstation, and B&Q; and read real-user reviews on Amazon UK for practical feedback. Buying a reputable brand and the right size usually beats saving a few pounds on the wrong tool.

Conclusion: The right drill bit or hole saw is more than a purchase — it’s an investment in speed, finish and sanity. Whether you favour trade suppliers like Expert Electrical or the convenience of larger chains, focus on quality for frequent tasks and smart compromises for one-off jobs. With the right kit and a little care, your next install will go smoother than you thought possible.