Greenlee 660 Hole Cutter Set Review Quick Change Carbide Precision Tools for Professionals

Description

Positive Features of the Greenlee 660 Quick Change Carbide Cutter Set

I’ve been putting this hole cutter set through its paces, and the precision and speed it offers truly stand out. The quick change arbor is a game-changer; it allows me to swap cutter heads with just a push and turn, eliminating wasted time fumbling with tools. The kit covers a versatile range of hole sizes, from 7/8-inch up to 2 inches, making it incredibly flexible for various tasks involving stainless steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum. The precision carbide teeth not only slice through metals cleanly but also reduce the usual chatter and squealing that can drive you nuts during drilling.

The flange stop is a thoughtful addition, preventing over-drilling and saving me from ruining workpieces. Plus, the replaceable cobalt-steel pilot drill with its split-point tip keeps the tool from wandering off target, which is a must for accuracy. All the components come neatly packed in a rugged plastic case, which helps keep things organized and portable. My electrician friend even commented on how professional the kit looks and feels in hand.

• Cuts clean, precise holes in multiple types of metal
• Quick change arbor speeds up the workflow
• Durable carbide teeth minimize noise and wear
• Flange stop prevents over-drilling for better control

Areas for Improvement

While I appreciate many things about this cutter set, a few drawbacks surfaced. The weight of the kit, sitting around 1.3 pounds, can add up when you’re working overhead or for extended periods. Also, the plastic carrying case, though rugged, feels a bit bulky for my toolbox, and I wish it was a tad more compact. Another minor gripe relates to the minimum chuck size requirement of 3/8 inches on the arbor. If you’re using a drill with a smaller chuck, this kit won’t fit without an adapter.

Additionally, although the carbide teeth are tough, they demand careful handling to avoid chipping. The price point might feel steep for casual DIYers, although professionals will likely find the investment justified by the tool’s longevity and performance.

• Slightly heavy for prolonged overhead work
• Bulky plastic case takes up toolbox space
• Requires 3/8-inch minimum chuck size on drills
• Carbide teeth are durable but can chip if mishandled

Ease of Use and Design Considerations

The design of this hole cutter set caters well to professionals who value efficiency. The quick change arbor mechanism is intuitive; I found myself switching cutter heads without breaking focus on the task. The flange stop is especially useful, making sure I don’t drill too deep, which has saved me from a number of headaches. The pilot drill’s split-point tip ensures the bit starts exactly where I want it, limiting any walking or slipping on the metal surface.

I handed the tool to my nephew, who is just starting in electrical work, and he felt confident using it right away. The ergonomic design of the arbor and cutter heads makes gripping and guiding the tool comfortable, even when tackling tougher metals. The overall build quality feels solid and reliable, helping to boost confidence during use.

Performance Across Different Metals

Testing the cutter across a variety of metals was enlightening. It handled stainless steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum with impressive ease. The precision carbide cutting edges smoothly sliced through each metal without producing excessive burrs. I noticed a significant reduction in the typical noises associated with hole cutting; the tool’s design clearly minimizes chatter and squealing, which is a blessing for long jobs.

While the smaller cutter heads excelled in lighter metals like copper and aluminum, the larger sizes maintained their edge in tougher materials such as stainless steel. This versatility makes the set a solid pick for electricians, metalworkers, and maintenance professionals who need reliable results across different projects.

Product Comparisons

Compared to popular competitors like the Milwaukee hole saw kits or DeWalt’s carbide hole cutters, this set offers notable strengths in its quick change system and carbide tooth durability. The arbor’s push-button change is smoother and faster than the twist-lock systems I’ve encountered elsewhere. However, some rival kits offer slightly lighter cases or include more cutter sizes, which could be a consideration if you need a broader range.

Milwaukee’s sets sometimes come with more aggressive teeth for faster cutting but at the expense of increased noise and chatter. DeWalt tools tend to be pricier but include more extensive warranty options. The Greenlee cutter set strikes a good balance, especially for those focused on precision and professional-grade performance without overspending.

Value Proposition

The price for this hole cutter kit feels in line with the quality and features it delivers. Although it’s not the cheapest option, the long-lasting carbide teeth and versatile cutter sizes make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who need reliability and speed. If you’re a casual user, the cost might seem high, but for electricians, plumbers, or metal fabricators, the time saved and accuracy gained justify the spend.

The rugged plastic case and included accessories, like the hex key and quick change auger, add value without inflating the price unnecessarily. Considering the tool’s durability and precision, it definitely offers money’s worth in the realm of hole cutters.

Alternative Offerings

Looking beyond this set, other options include the Milwaukee Hole Dozer and DeWalt’s Carbide Hole Saw sets. Milwaukee’s kit tends to deliver aggressive cutting and is often preferred when speed is prioritized over finesse. DeWalt’s offerings are known for their robust warranty and brand reputation but come at a higher price point. The Greenlee kit shines where precision and ease of head changes matter, especially in professional environments where downtime is costly.

If you need a lighter set with more size options, some brands include additional cutters, but they may lack the quick-change arbor feature, which speeds up work dramatically. For those who value a well-rounded toolset with professional-grade materials and efficient design, this hole cutter kit is a standout choice.

Summary of Winning Points

• Rapid cutter head swaps thanks to the innovative quick change arbor
• Clean, accurate holes in a variety of metals including stainless steel
• Durable carbide teeth that reduce noise and wear during cutting
• Flange stop prevents over-drilling, improving precision and safety

Summary of Downsides

• Slightly heavy for extended overhead use
• Bulky plastic case could be more compact
• Requires a minimum 3/8-inch chuck size on drills
• Carbide teeth are durable but need careful handling to avoid damage

Additional information