Freud PB-0045 11/16″ (Dia.) Forstner Bit

The Freud PB-0045 Precision Shear™ 11/16″ Forstner Bit is a smaller, control-focused size for flat-bottom recess work where a 3/4″ hole is slightly oversized. An 11/16″ Forstner bit is commonly used for compact counterbores, shallow pockets for small fastener heads and washers, and clean recesses in jigs, fixtures, and furniture parts that need a tidy rim edge. It drills plywood, hardwoods, and softwoods with straight walls and a smooth bottom, making it a good match for visible cabinet parts and hardwood trim where chip-out can lead to extra sanding. With a 5/16″ shank and 3-1/2″ overall length, the PB-0045 fits smaller drill chucks while still working well in drill press setups for consistent depth control.

Freud’s Precision Shear™ geometry uses a double-ground, razor-sharp serrated rim that slices wood fibers throughout the rotation for less splintering and chipping. Steep angled cutting edges produce “chisel-like” curls for fast chip removal, helping reduce friction and heat compared to Forstner designs that pack fine dust in the cut. An ultra-sharp center spur supports accurate starts, which is useful when drilling repeat recesses in plywood or hardwood and when hole placement needs to stay tight to layout marks.

Freud 11/16″ (Dia.) Forstner Bit At a Glance

• 11/16″ Cutting Diameter: A compact size for counterbores, recesses, and jig work.
• Precision Shear Serrated Rim: Helps reduce chipping on plywood veneers and hardwood edges.
• Flat-Bottom Hole Cutting: Creates clean pockets for hardware seating and joinery tasks.
• Ultra-Sharp Center Spur: Starts accurately and helps reduce wandering on entry.
• Steep Angled Cutting Edges: Produces smooth walls and efficient chip clearing.
• 5/16″ Shank: Fits smaller chucks while maintaining stable boring control.
• Right-Hand Rotation: Standard clockwise cutting direction.
• Wood Compatibility: Drills plywood, hardwoods, and softwoods cleanly.

Markets

• Cabinet and Millwork Shops: For small, clean recess drilling in doors, panels, and casework parts.
• Furniture Builders: Useful for compact counterbores and controlled-depth recesses in hardwood parts.
• Construction and Renovation: Helps create neat fastener recesses in trim and carpentry details.
• Maintenance and Facilities Teams: For repair work requiring accurate recesses in wood fixtures and components.
• Woodworking Hobbyists and Advanced DIY: A practical 11/16″ Forstner bit for shop projects and jig building.
• Trade Schools and Training Programs: Supports accurate boring technique and repeatable drilling setups.

An 11/16″ woodworking Forstner bit is often chosen for smaller counterbores where keeping the recess tight improves appearance and reduces patching work. Cabinet and furniture shops benefit from the serrated rim when drilling plywood and hardwood because it helps keep entry edges clean and reduces finishing time around the recess. Contractors and maintenance crews use this size to seat fastener heads below the surface without removing extra material, which helps prevent snag points and makes repairs look cleaner. In training and DIY use, the smaller diameter is easier to control, the center spur helps keep placement consistent, and the chip-clearing cutting action helps reduce heat buildup during repeated holes—especially when paired with a drill press or depth guide.

Freud PB-0045 11/16″ (Dia.) Forstner Bit Features

• Double-ground cutting geometry for efficient boring and clean hole edges
• Razor-sharp serrated rim for fast cutting with reduced splintering and chipping
• Multiple cutting edges for greater shearing action and efficient material removal
• Steep angled cutters that produce smooth walls and flat-bottom holes
• Ultra-sharp center spur for accurate starting and improved control
• Designed to reduce dust packing, friction, and heat versus common Forstner designs
• Suitable for plywood, hardwood, and softwood drilling applications

Freud PB-0045 11/16″ (Dia.) Forstner Bit Includes

• (1) Freud PB-0045 Precision Shear™ 11/16″ Forstner Bit

Freud PB-0045 11/16″ (Dia.) Forstner Bit Specifications

• Bit Diameter (D): 11/16″
• Shank Diameter: 5/16″
• Overall Length (L): 3-1/2″
• Rotation: Right hand (RH)
• Material Compatibility: Plywood, hardwoods, softwoods

Freud PB-0045 11/16″ (Dia.) Forstner Bit Warranty

• Freud Limited Lifetime Guarantee

Why Woodworking Professionals Choose the Freud 11/16″ (Dia.) Forstner Bit

Customers choose the Freud PB-0045 11/16″ Forstner bit when they need a compact, flat-bottom counterbore that keeps hardware seating neat without opening the hole up to 3/4″. The Precision Shear serrated rim helps reduce tear-out on plywood and keeps entry edges cleaner on hardwood, which cuts down on sanding and touch-up. The ultra-sharp center spur improves accuracy for repeat drilling in jigs and hardware layouts, while the steep cutting edges clear chips efficiently so the bit runs cooler and cuts more consistently during multiple holes. For drill press work and controlled-depth recesses where fit and finish matter, this 11/16″ boring bit is a reliable option.