SALI 5/8 in Annular Cutter 3/4 in Weldon Shank - Precision Mag Drill

In this review of the SALI annular cutter the bottom line is straightforward: this 5/8 in, 1 in cutting depth tool is a good choice for metalworkers who need a clean, reamed hole from a magnetic drill without excessive finishing. The reviewer found the cutter's HSS M20AL construction and CNC machining deliver consistent hole quality and smooth edges when used with a compatible magnetic drill. It is aimed at machinists and fabricators who value burr-free holes and secure clamping, though buyers should note an arbor is required for use on a standard drill press.

Key Features

• Diameter and depth: The 5/8 in diameter with a 1 in cutting depth balances penetration for common plate work while limiting walk and chatter.
• HSS construction: Made from M20AL high speed steel for improved wear resistance and longer service life under regular use.
• Weldon shank: The 3/4 in weldon shank with flats gives secure clamping in magnetic drill arbors and reduces slippage under load.
• Reamed finish: CNC machining and edge design produce smooth, burr-free holes that often need little to no secondary deburring.
• Included pilot pin: The 1/4 in x 3 in pilot pin helps eject slug and establishes accurate centering during the cut.
• Compact case: A sturdy plastic case holds the cutter and pilot pin for safer storage and transport.

Who It's For

This tool suits metalworking professionals and hobbyists who regularly use magnetic drill presses from common brands and want predictable, clean holes in mild steel and similar materials. It is a practical selection for on-site fabricators, structural welders, and shop technicians who prefer a dedicated annular cutter for through-hole work.

It is not aimed at users who only own a standard drill press without an annular cutter arbor, since an arbor is not included. Buyers who prioritize extreme breakage resistance for heavy production runs should consider higher-volume-specific cutters or alternative grades for continuous use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High quality HSS M20AL material offers good wear resistance for general shop use.
• The 3/4 in weldon shank with flats provides secure, slip-free clamping in compatible arbors.
• CNC-machined tip and edge give smooth, reamed, burr-free hole finishes that reduce cleanup time.
• Compact plastic case and included pilot pin make the set easy to store and use.

Cons

• Some customers reported early breakage on first use, indicating variable durability under certain conditions.
• An arbor is required for drill press use and is not included in the pack, adding to total cost if not already owned.

Specifications

Brand	SALI
Diameter	5/8 in
Cutting depth	1 in
Shank	3/4 in Weldon shank (with flats)
Pilot pin	1/4 in x 3 in included
Material	M20AL high speed steel (HSS)

Our Verdict

The SALI 5/8 in annular cutter is a solid value for fabricators and shop users who need clean, burr-free holes from a magnetic drill. Its CNC finish and HSS construction make it a practical tool for intermittent professional use, but prospective buyers should be aware of some reports of early breakage and the need to supply an arbor for drill press work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work on my magnetic drill?
Yes, it is compatible with many magnetic drills that accept 3/4 in weldon shanks, including common industry brands, provided the arbor/clamp matches the shank size.

Is an arbor included for drill press use?
No, an annular cutter arbor is not included; you will need a separate arbor to use this cutter on a drill press.

What material is the cutter made from?
The cutter is made from M20AL high speed steel, offering improved wear resistance and service life over standard HSS.