Best Tube Notcher Review – Top Picks With Buying Guide

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Unlike any other cutting or jointing tools, the tube notcher is used in diversified projects and professionals. Though in a first look it's a notching tool only it used in plumbing, electrical projects and for the manufacturers of automotive industries also. 

To build this best tube notchers list, we reviewed several top-selling and popular models and as usual, we noticed all of them have almost the same features.

Best Tube Notchers

So, we went to the deeper, asked professionals for their help to make a good list for this post.

Our intention was clear that you don't get confused and pick the wrong one. After analyzing and testing a lot we came up with the following list of tube notchers which we believe will help you to choose the right one for your purpose.


Quick Look On Our Top Favorites


Image

Name

Feature

Price

Bosch HDG11 Diamond Hole Saw Set

Segmented teeth reduce debris and heat

Eastwood Tube and Pipe Notcher

Notches Up To A 2" Diameter Round Tube

Speedy Notcher Tubing

Includes a built-in protractor gauge

Kaka PN-1/2S Hole Saw Pipe Tube Notcher

Use with your electric drill or drill press

Woodward Fab Pipe and Tube Hole Saw Notcher

2" Pipe and Tube Hole Saw Notcher

Allstar Performance ALL10411

Use in drill press or with hand drill.

XtremepowerUS Pipe Notcher

Perfect for fabricating roll cages, mini bike frames

Woodward Fab Pipe Bender

Can bends up to 2" diameter round or square

KAKA RA-2 Manual Tube Notcher

Designed specifically for 3/4", 1", 1-1/4" pipe

Best Tube Notcher Reviews 2022


1. Bosch HDG11 Diamond Hole Saw Set

Specifications

  • Weight: N/A
  • Dimensions: N/A
  • Part number: HDG114
  • Size: 11 Piece Set
  • Fast and easy starts
Bosch HDG11 Diamond Hole Saw Set

A complete hole saw set in a convenient carry case. The 11 pieces of this set will pretty much assure you that you have the ability to make whatever size hole you need to make. It comes with a mandrel, an auto-start pilot bit, and hole saws in sizes of ¼” to 2-1/2”.

With this saw set, the pilot bit saves you from having to drill a pilot hole in your tubing. The auto start pilot bit has a special grind ability that allows you to start the perfect hole in the right size and depth. It is spring-loaded and has a retractable shaft. It saves time and effort when you are working.

The hole saws are vacuum brazed diamond-tipped so they have the ability to cut at a faster rate. The diamond tips are harder than most other cutting tips so they last longer than the average hole saws do.

The teeth on the hole saws are segmented so they get a better grip and are able to work into the metal better. You get precision notches that are even and the proper depth every time.

The quick-change adapter ensures that you can easily change from one saw orbit to another one with very little effort.

Pros


  • The diamond grit can cut fast with great durability, and it's vacuum-brazed.
  • Suitable for cutting without a pilot hole.
  • Comes with a durable plastic case for the entire set.
  • Can fast cut ceramic tile in only 30 seconds.

Cons


  • Requires ¾" drill bit to operate.

2. Erie Tools Tube And Pipe Notcher Tool

Specifications

  • Weight: 10.1 pounds
  • Dimensions: 12.5 x 7.3 x 7 inches
  • Part number: TT-376202
  • Spindle Adapter: 1/2 to 5/8 in
  • Mounting bracket: 0-90°
Erie Tools Tube And Pipe Notcher Tool

You can make your drill press more beneficial by adding this pipe notcher to your tool arsenal. It has the ability to cut pipe and tubing into a wide variety of shapes and sizes. It can create any angle you desire starting at zero degrees and moving up to 60 degrees in some metals. It makes a perfect 0 to 45-degree angle in aluminum tubing or pipe.

The frame of this piece of equipment is crafted from steel so it is sturdy and durable. It is capable of holding your tubing or pipe in position without letting it slip or slide.

It is positioned on an adjustable base that can be adapted so you can use in on any work surface, bench, or table. It can also easily be mounted on your drill press.

It has the perfect design and abilities for anyone who builds roll cages, works on bike frames like mini bikes, or works around the home with metal tubing or pipe. It can help you fabricate exactly what you need in a short amount of time.

Pros


  • Can work on pipes up to 5/8" thickness with ease.
  • Suitable for a range of metals, including stainless steel, aluminum, coppers, etc.
  • Features 10 dies that will assist you in getting customized results.
  • Has 180 degrees of maximum bending radius.

Cons


  • The die pieces could be of better quality.

3. DEWALT D180005 Hole Saw Kit

Specifications

  • Weight: N/A
  • Dimensions: 3 x 9.8 x 7.3 inches
  • Part number: D180005
  • Material: Metal
  • Made in the USA
DEWALT Hole Saw Kit

Dewalt has put together a hole saw kit containing 14 pieces. This kit is just about the only hole saw equipment you will ever need to have. The hole saws are designed with hardened backing plates that prevent warping and the stripping of threads. They also cut deep so you have more efficiency and increased versatility.

The saws have a double tooth design. This allows them to get a firm grip so they cut into the metal quicker and with greater precision. The double teeth also allow the saws to last longer.

In the kit, you get a plastic carrying case to keep all of your pieces together. There is also a small and a large quick-change mandrel so changing elements is easy and fast. You get 11 varied hole saws-all with double teeth and replacement parts. Inside the carry, the case lid is a diagram detailing the sizes of each hole saw and which quick-change mandrel to use with each one.

The included hole saws are sizes ¾”, 7/8”, 1-1/8”, 1-3/8”, 1-1/2”, 1-3/4”,2”,2-1/8”, 2-1/4”, and 2-1/2”. The kit is perfect for electrical workers, door lock installation and for plumbers.

Pros


  • Features tool-free clamping, reducing damage and facilitating better cutting.
  • Accurate cuts due to the usage of taller bushings and alignment windows.
  • Suitable for standard backsets due to two adjustable bushings. You can utilize it on both common door thicknesses.
  • Suitable for a range of materials. Works great with wood, tiles, plywood, plastic boxes, etc.

Cons


  • Not recommended for professional tasks.
  • Doesn't provide good performance on walls.

4. Kaka PN-1/2S Hole Saw Pipe Tube Notcher

Specifications

  • Weight: 9.9 pounds
  • Dimensions: 12.6 x 8.2 x 7 inches
  • Model number: PN-1/2S
  • Size: Small
  • Material: Metal
Kaka PN-1/2S Hole Saw Pipe Tube Notcher

Kaka PN-1/2S is a pipe notcher that will make sure that you can make secure welds. It can make round cuts in pipes and tubes of many different sizes. It is versatile enough to be used with your drill press or with your handheld electric drill. If you have to work away from your shop being able to use this tool with the handheld drill will make things a lot easier for you.

The mounting bracket is completely adjustable. By adjusting the mounting bracket you change the angle that the hole saw cuts at. When you need to cut compound notch angles you will be able to easily perform this action with precision.

This tool is designed to be used with a ½” chuck. It is capable of cutting angles in degrees from 0 to 60. The angle changes are selected in one-inch increments so you always get the exact angle you need. It can cut tubing that is up to 2” in diameter.

This tool weighs less than ten pounds so it is very easy for you to carry with you or move and reposition. It creates precision cuts every time and makes it possible for you to get clean welds and perfect connections.

Pros


  • Maximum cutting capacity of 2" and you can use ½" chuck.
  • Gives proper alignment and precise setting from 0 to 60 degrees. Has 1 degree increments for extreme precision.
  • Features an adjustable mounting bracket that assists in working on a compound notch.
  • Can easily notch .120 wall tube in no time!

Cons


  • The angle scale should've been more accurate.

5. Woodward Fab Pipe and Tube Hole Saw Notcher

Specifications

  • Weight: N/A
  • Dimensions: N/A
  • Part number: 4545593
  • 2" Pipe & Tube saw.
  • 1 year warranty
Woodward Fab Pipe and Tube Hole Saw Notcher

This notcher will create angles up to 90 degrees. It has an angle adjustment that is easy to read and easy to adjust. You can set the tool to create the perfect angle in just a few seconds.

It has the ability to cut pipes and tubing that are as big around as two inches. It makes crisp and precise cuts that allow you to make clean and perfect welds. It also makes cuts so precise that fitting the pieces together later is as easy as pie.

The clamp holds your tubing and pipe securely while you work. You will find that this is an affordable piece of equipment that will give you the ability to make your precise cuts and work with tubing and pipe. It is durable and dependable.

It is perfect for small shops that build roll cages or work on bike frames. It is also a great tool for the homeowner or craft work that will be working with round pipes and tubing.

Pros


  • Can easily work on 1/2" and ¾" pipes.
  • Suitable for proper cutting on aluminum and mild steel.
  • Has the ability to angle cut up to 60 degrees.
  • A cheap but quality alternative to pricey notchers.

Cons


  • Performance isn't the best on stainless steel.

6. VKRP Industrial Professional Pipe and Tube Notcher

Specifications

  • Weight: N/A
  • Dimensions: N/A
  • Works with any half inchs drill.
  • Notches in 3/4" to 3" Tubing
  • Accepts standard hole saws
VKRP Industrial Professional Pipe and Tube Notcher

This is not a typical tubing notcher. It is an industrial-strength notching tool that has the ability to cut larger tubes than most of your common notching tools do. It is capable of being used on pipes and tubes that are between ¾” and 3”.

This piece of equipment is adjustable up to 50 degrees. It has the capacity to create angles from 90 degrees up to 150 degrees that are precise. You easily make angle adjustments by loosening the bolt, using one hand to adjust the angle to your desired angle and then use the other hand to lock the bearing block back into position.

It is able to accept the majority of standard hole saws and will work with any ½” drill. This tubing notcher does not come with a hole saw you must by them as a separate accessory. It can be mounted on a bench or in a vise depending on your circumstances and preferences.

Pros


  • Suitable for notching from ¾" up to 3" without any issues.
  • Can work with regular hole saws.
  • 50 degrees adjustment for angle grinding.
  • Easy to mount on a bench.

Cons


  • Does not come with hole saws.
  • Not suitable for offset notches.

Buying Guide for Selecting the Best Tube Notcher


If you have decided that you could benefit from owning a tube notcher you need to consider a few features before you choose one of these tools. The following tips and feature descriptions will give you the ability to compare tube notching equipment and decide which one you will be the happiest with.

Tube notchers seem to be all alike. The differences in these tools may be slight, but that slight difference is enough to make a big difference in their performance on certain materials.

Versatility

The first consideration of a tube notcher should be what the tool can cut. You want to get a notcher that is capable of cutting a large variety of sizes. That way you are not limited on the materials you can work with. Your best option is a notcher than can create holes between ¼” to 2- ½”.

Hand-Held

The two main tube notcher designs allow for the tool to either be held in your hand or mounted to your drill press. You have to decide which of these styles will be the most beneficial for you.

Do they require a pilot hole?

Some notchers will require you to make a pilot hole in the material before the notcher can cut it. Auto start bits will eliminate the need for these holes and allow you to work quicker with less trouble.

Heat Concern

You want to find a notcher that has segmented teeth that reduces the amount of debris created and reduces the amount of heat created. The last thing you want is for your tool to overheat while you are working and cause you to have to stop and wait for it to cool down.

Water Requirements

Some tool notchers will require you to use water to keep your heat reduced the entire time that you are cutting. Other notchers will allow you to work with little or no water. The no water or little water notching tools will allow you to work faster with less aggravation.

Backing Plate

If the hole notcher has a backing plate then it can help to prevent things like warping and stripping of threads.


Frequently Asked Questions


How to use a tube notcher?

When you start cutting your tube you want to cut the tube slightly larger than what you actually want if your angle is less than 45 degrees. If the angle is more than 45 degrees cut the tube exactly to the length that you desire. 

Set your notcher to the angle you wish to cut. Then position the tube into the notcher so that the centerline is showing at the top. This will have your tube situated at a 90-degree angle to the center of your hole saw.

Make your notch in your tubing. Be careful to remove your snap collar or move it out of the way prior to making the cut.

How does a tube notcher work?  

A tube notcher has very sharp teeth. The tube notcher spins and the teeth saw into the tubing that you wish to place a notch into. You must carefully choose what angle you need the tube notched in and set your notching tool up so that it can create that perfect angle.

To have complete accuracy with a tubing notching tool you must make accurate measurements and mark the tubing precisely before you begin.

Stand in such a way that you are viewing the tube from a right angle perspective to ensure that your cuts are precise.


Final Note


A tubing notcher helps you to make notches or holes in the tubing so you can join it and make a stronger finished project. It is possible to make these notches without one of these tools, but having a tubing notcher makes your work more precise, and makes it easier to do.

Last Updated on 1 year by Richard Boyer

  • June 28, 2022
Richard Boyer
 

Richard Boyer has been a professional welder for over 27 years of his life, and now he is a trainer and blogger providing critical information to anyone interested in welding. He is helping out both hobbyists, novice and professional welders to learn newer and better techniques. Read more about me

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