Best 35mm Drill Bits and Jigs for Cabinet Hinges
A 35mm Forstner-style bit is the core tool for boring cup holes for many concealed cabinet hinges. Choose the Kreg jig for adjustable hinge positioning and a controlled-depth boring system, the Shimeyao set for an included locator and template, or a standalone bit if you already have a way to position and control the drill. The options below compare their listed sizes, materials, and included features.
| Product | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Kreg Concealed Hinge Jig | Positioning and depth control | Adjustable offsets and stop collar |
| 35mm Tungsten Carbide Forstner Bit | Standalone boring | 54mm listed drilling depth |
| 35mm Plastic Furniture Forstner Bit | Wood and plastic projects | Multiple listed material applications |
| Shimeyao Hinge Jig Set | Buyers needing a bit and guide | Locator, template, and depth limiter |
| Rok Hardware 35mm Bit | Basic hinge-hole boring | Fine blades and 9mm shank |
Kreg Concealed Hinge Jig
Best for: Cabinet makers and DIYers who want a positioning guide and depth control in one system. The jig is designed for 35mm cup holes for European-style concealed hinges and is listed for use with a hand drill.
Its four-cutter carbide-tipped bit and stop collar are intended to help make clean holes at a controlled depth. Adjustable placement supports hinge offsets of 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm. This makes it a more complete option than a standalone bit when repeatable positioning is important.
Limitation: The listed offset choices are specific increments, so check that they suit the hinge placement required for your cabinet door.
35mm Tungsten Carbide Forstner Bit
Best for: Woodworkers who need a single 35mm bit and already have a suitable method for locating the hinge cup. The listed cutting diameter is 35mm, with a 10mm shank, 54mm drilling depth, and 88mm total length.
The cutting edge is described as K30 monolithic tungsten carbide, and the product listing says it is resharpenable. Its arc-curve head is designed to clear sawdust. The listing identifies hardwood and plastic as applications and also describes drilling in end grain and through knots.
Limitation: This listing is for the bit, not a hinge-positioning jig or template, so it does not provide the adjustable placement features of a jig set.
35mm Forstner Bit for Wood and Plastic
Best for: Buyers whose cabinet or furniture project involves wood or plastic materials and who need a 35mm cutting diameter. The product description lists wood, plywood, solid wood boards, MDF, plastics, and fiberglass among its applications.
The bit has a thickened carbide cutter and hardened steel body, according to the listing. Its curved head design is intended to help remove chips during boring. These material and design details make it a relevant standalone option for furniture and hinge-hole work.
Limitation: The provided specifications do not state the shank diameter or drilling depth. Confirm that its dimensions and depth capacity suit your drill and project before buying.
Shimeyao 35mm Hinge Jig Set
Best for: Homeowners and woodworking DIYers who want a bit, locator, and hinge-hole template together. The package includes a 35mm carbide Forstner bit, a hinge drilling locator, and a guide template.
The jig has a detachable depth limiter and transparent scale for adjusting drilling depth. Its center-positioning design is intended to reduce repeated measuring and repositioning. The listing describes the clamp as ABS plastic and says the setup is made for drilling 35mm cup-shaped holes with a hand drill.
Limitation: The listing does not provide a specific shank diameter or maximum drilling depth, so verify these details if they matter for your setup.
Rok Hardware 35mm Hinge Boring Bit
Best for: Buyers seeking a straightforward 35mm bit for concealed cabinet hinge holes. The listing specifies a 35mm (1.37-inch) drilling diameter, a 9mm shank, and a 64mm shank length.
Fine blades are built into the Forstner bit, according to the product description. Choose this option if you already have a reliable way to mark the cup location and control the drilling depth. Compared with the Kreg and Shimeyao options, it is a bit rather than a listed jig-and-bit package.
Limitation: The provided product details do not specify a depth limiter or positioning guide.
Buying Guide: Choosing a 35mm Hinge Bit
Do you need a bit or a complete jig?
A standalone bit makes sense when you already know how you will mark the hinge position and keep the hole at the required depth. A jig is a better choice when you want help with alignment or repeatable placement. The Kreg option lists adjustable offsets and a stop collar; the Shimeyao set includes a locator, template, and detachable depth limiter.
Which dimensions should you check?
Confirm the cutting diameter first: these options are listed as 35mm, or approximately 1-3/8 inches. Then compare shank size and length with the drill setup you plan to use. Only some listings provide these measurements. Also compare stated depth information with the hinge cup and door thickness requirements for your project.
What materials will you drill?
Check the product description against your workpiece. The two standalone bit listings describe use with wood, while one also lists plastic, MDF, plywood, solid wood, and fiberglass. Material claims differ by product, so do not assume every bit is suitable for every surface.
How important is repeatable placement?
For several doors, a positioning jig can help organize measurement and placement. For a one-off hole or an experienced user, a standalone bit may be sufficient if the hole location and depth can be controlled. Follow the hinge maker’s required cup position and depth when laying out the work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 35mm bit the same as a 1-3/8-inch bit?
They are commonly used as approximate equivalents for hinge-hole sizing. The Rok listing gives 35mm and 1.37 inches, while other product details specify 35mm or 1-3/8 inches.
Can I install a concealed hinge with only a 35mm bit?
A bit can bore the cup hole, but it does not itself provide a positioning guide. You need a way to mark the hole location and control the drilling depth.
Which option includes a hinge drilling guide?
The Kreg product is a concealed hinge jig with adjustable placement. The Shimeyao package lists a locator and hinge-hole guide template along with the bit.
What does a stop collar do?
A stop collar is used to limit how far a bit travels into the workpiece. The Kreg listing specifically describes a stop collar for controlled-depth hinge cup holes.
Should I choose carbide?
Several listed options describe carbide cutting edges or cutters. Compare the stated material, dimensions, and included guides rather than choosing by material name alone.