[benjiprice]

I need to drill a circular or semi-circular hole in a plank of wood that's 0.75in thick "engineered wood" and has a coat of white lacquer. Here's a photo. It would be on the base of it.

The hole would need to be big enough for a grounded power plug. What's the best drill bit to use for something like that? Spade, hole saw...? Any other tips?

 

[joecaption]

Is the bottom going to be showing?
If so then only drill 1/2 way through from both sides with a hole saw.
Just take your time when it's starting so there's no tear out. Once it's through the top surface let it rip.
Really should have been drilled before assembly.

 

[hand drive]

measure the plug and then use a paddle bit -drilling from the exposed side that you will see later, let any blowout happen in the back...

 

[ddawg16]

I would use a hole saw.....and make the hole big enough for one of these.....

Visit Rockler.com for more examples....

And I wouldn't use a paddle bit on that wood....one large enough is going to mess it up.

 

[Msradell]

measure the plug and then use a paddle bit -drilling from the exposed side that you will see later, let any blowout happen in the back...

A paddle bit (Spade bit) is not the correct way to do this. The front of the hole will be rough and the back will be a disaster exhibition point

 

[jaydevries]

i like the ddawg16 recommendation but when drilling with hole saw or forstner bit place a block of wood tight against other side where drill bit will be coming out this will prevent blow out

 

[hand drive]

A paddle bit (Spade bit) is not the correct way to do this. The front of the hole will be rough and the back will be a disaster exhibition point

if done with enough rpm it will be fine. It is one of the many materials I've drilled through with a paddle bit, work it easy and slow with enough rpm and wa la but for the inexperienced you could be right.