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Which Hole Saw Is Required for a Docking Drawer Canister Installation?
A precise, professional canister install depends on selecting the correct hole saw before you cut. The key variable is simple: are you installing with or without a silicone canister band? Here’s a complete breakdown of what you’ll need.
Two Ways to Install Your Canister
- Without a silicone band: drill a hole matching the canister diameter exactly. With the cap removed, the canister is inserted from below and the cap is fastened from underneath. Underside access to the drawer or cabinet is necessary.
- With a silicone band: drill a hole .25" larger than the canister diameter. The band grips the opening and holds the canister securely from the top — cap on, no underside access required. This approach is the preferred method for cabinet shops and production workflows.
Hole Saw Size Reference Chart
| Canister Size | Without Band | With Band |
|---|---|---|
| 2" | 2" | 2.25" |
| 3" | 3" | 3.25" |
| 4" | 4" | 4.25" |
| 5" | 5" | 5.25" |
Recommended Brands
DeWalt and Milwaukee both produce reliable bi-metal hole saws suited to this type of work. Either option cuts through wood, plywood, and MDF with clean, consistent results.
DeWalt Bi-Metal Hole Saws
| Size | Model # | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 2" | D180032 | No band |
| 2.25" | D180036 | With band |
| 3" | D180048 | No band |
| 3.25" | D180052 | With band |
| 4" | D180064 | No band |
| 4.25" | D180068 | With band |
| 5" | D180080 | No band |
| 5.25" | D180084 | With band |
Individual pricing ranges from approximately $10–$30 USD depending on size. Available at dewalt.com, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon.
Milwaukee Hole Dozer Bi-Metal Hole Saws
| Size | Model # | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 2" | 49-56-0117 | No band |
| 2.25" | 49-56-0132 | With band |
| 3" | 49-56-0173 | No band |
| 3.25" | 49-56-9639 | With band |
| 4" | 49-56-0213 | No band |
| 4.25" | 49-56-0223 | With band |
| 5" | 49-56-0243 | No band |
| 5.25" | 49-56-9653 | With band |
Individual pricing ranges from approximately $12–$35 USD depending on size. Milwaukee runs slightly higher per unit but backs every saw with their industry-only Lifetime Tooth Break Warranty. Available at milwaukeetool.com, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon.
A Note on Kits
Milwaukee’s Hole Dozer kit lineup isn’t set up for canister work — their General Purpose 13-piece kit (49-22-4025) maxes out at 2½”, which won’t cover the 3", 4", or 5" sizes most installs require. Buy the sizes you need individually.
Tips for a Clean Cut
- Use a standard rotary drill only — hammer and impact modes will damage the saw and the material.
- Lay painter’s tape over the cut line on any finished surface to minimize tear-out.
- Both brands use a 5/8"-18 arbor thread, compatible with any standard universal mandrel.
- For production shop environments, the band method is the go-to — consistent results, faster installs, no underside access required.
Have questions about canister sizing for your specific project? Visit dockingdrawer.ca or connect with our team directly.