Description
The Procat knot bit and plug cutter set is a six-piece specialist tool set designed for demanding woodwork, especially when the aim is to make inconspicuous repairs or concealed joints. The set contains three pairs of matching bits: three knot bits (Forstner-type bits) and three matching plug cutters. This combination lets the user drill a clean, flat-bottomed hole with the knot bit and then make a wooden plug that fits the hole exactly from the same wood with the plug cutter.
The set covers the three most common and practical sizes: 15 mm, 25 mm and 35 mm. These sizes are very well suited to many kinds of joinery, furniture making and renovation. By using the same timber for the plug as the item being repaired, you get a result where the grain pattern and colour match almost perfectly, making the patch almost invisible after sanding and finishing.
The whole set is supplied in a durable, neat wooden box with its own place for each bit. This makes the bits easier to store, keeps them in order and protects their cutting edges from knocks during transport and storage. The set is designed for professional use where precision and a clean finish are valued.
Intended use:
- Patching knots and damage: The primary use of the set is to remove unsightly knots, resin pockets or other surface defects in wood by drilling them out with the knot bit. The plug cutter is then used to make a patch (plug) from an offcut, which is glued into the hole. Done correctly, with the grain direction taken into account, the repair is very inconspicuous
- Hiding screw heads: When assembling furniture or other visible wooden structures, screws can be sunk deep below the wood surface by first making a counterbore with the knot bit. After screwing, the hole is covered with a wooden plug made with the plug cutter, which is sanded flush with the surface. This creates a finished, high-quality look without visible fixings
- Decorative details: The set can also be used to make deliberately contrasting wooden plugs as a decorative element. For example, plugs made from a darker wood species can be set into light wood to cover joints, creating a visually interesting detail in joinery products
Package contents:
- 1 pcs knot bit 15 mm
- 1 pcs knot bit 25 mm
- 1 pcs knot bit 35 mm
- 1 pcs plug cutter for 15 mm plugs
- 1 pcs plug cutter for 25 mm plugs
- 1 pcs plug cutter for 35 mm plugs
- 1 pcs storage box (wood)
Features:
- Perfect compatibility: The diameters of the knot bits and plug cutters are matched, so the plug fits the drilled hole tightly.
- Three standard sizes: The set includes sizes 15, 25 and 35 mm, which cover most joinery needs.
- Clean cut: The knot bits cut a clean rim and a flat bottom in the hole. The plug cutters release an intact, accurately sized plug.
- Wooden storage box: Protects the bits and keeps the parts of the set organised and within easy reach.
Technical specifications:
- Number of pieces: 6 pcs bits + box
- Sizes: 15 mm, 25 mm, 35 mm
- Bit types: 3 x knot bit (Forstner type), 3 x plug cutter (sleeve type)
- Shank: Cylindrical shank (fits ordinary drill chucks)
- Box material: Wood
Procat knot bit and plug cutter set instructions for use:
For the best result, a pillar drill is recommended, especially when making plugs, so that drilling is completely vertical and stable. Take particular care when working with a hand drill.
Drilling the hole: Choose a knot bit of a suitable size. Drill a hole to the required depth at the spot to be repaired. The knot bit makes a flat-bottomed hole. Remove the shavings from the hole.
Making the plug: Choose the plug cutter that matches the size of the hole. Use the same wood as the item being repaired (e.g. an offcut). Drill into the wood with the plug cutter as deep as possible, but do not drill through the piece. Take the grain direction into account so that it matches the spot being repaired. Release the finished plug from the piece of wood with a chisel, for example, or by sawing it off.
Fitting: Apply wood glue to the sides of the plug and press it carefully into the drilled hole. Make sure the grain runs in the same direction. Wipe off excess glue. Once the glue has dried, sand the plug flush with the surrounding surface.
Warnings:
Always wear safety glasses when drilling. Make sure the workpiece is firmly clamped, especially when using large bits. Plug cutters can generate a lot of heat from friction; use a moderate drilling speed and let the bit cool when needed so that the wood does not burn. The bits are sharp; handle them with care.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ):
Can I use the bits with a hand drill?
Yes, the bits can be used with a hand drill, but a pillar drill gives a more accurate and safer result, especially when drilling plugs.
Why make my own plugs rather than buy ready-made ones?
By making the plugs yourself from the same timber (e.g. offcuts from the project), you ensure that the wood species, colour and grain pattern match perfectly, so the repair becomes almost invisible. Ready-made plugs often stand out clearly.
Which wood species is the set suitable for?
The set is suitable for use on most common softwoods and hardwoods. With hardwoods, the drilling speed should be lower.
Recycling instructions:
Dispose of the metal drill bits through metal recycling at the end of their life. The wooden storage box can be recycled as wood waste or used as energy waste. Sort the packaging materials in line with local recycling instructions.
