Case modding---how to cut circular holes

[dmw16]

I was just wondering what the best way to cut a hole in my case would be? Also, what is the best way to avoid scratching the finish?
thanks,
-doug

 

[Ragnarock]

HOLESAW! I've used both a jigsaw and a holesaw, and holsesaws are the least painful; pretty cuts, easy to use, low risk of injury. They are kinda expensice, though, I paid a little shy of twenty dollars for my 3.5 incher.

 

[fatbaby]

The best way is to use a precision laser cutting device..

 

[SWScorch]

if you can get a holesaw, nothing beats them for good perfectly circular holes (besides a laser 😛)

I myself used a Dremel and some rotary cutoff wheels. Takes some time, but it works pretty well. To avoid scratching the finish, lay some masking tape around the area surrounding where you will cut.

 

[GoldMember]

Hole Punch is what I use here at the shop.. but they are expensive.. heh.. Laser cutting is pretty cheap for me.. it's just having to take a trip 13 miles everytime to cut a damn hole is like.. *get out the gun and shoot ya-self in da head*...

 

[Paragon1]

The cheapest way would probally be a jigsaw, because you can use it for more than just fan holes. It will also work good if plan to put a window, etc...

 

[BigMoe]

is the whole on top or the side?

 

[TheYetiMan]

A Greenley Punch will give you a perfect hole without damaging the finish. They are big bux to buy in large sizes but there's a reason for that... they work. I have many larger sizes for work, where to the average joe they might be hard to come by, but if you know anyone in a fabrication field ask around... electricians, machinists, maintenance monkeys all might be able to set you up for a one time job. 😉

 

[KouklatheCat]

Use a bi-metal hole saw. It has worked the best for me.

 

[Jerboy]

How about oxyacetylene cutting torch?

 

[Shack70]

I agree with TheYetiMan, Greenley Punches are great. They are easy to use and make perfect holes evertime!

 

[lepper boy]

Plasma TOURCH!!

 

[FlippyBoy]

i've had luck with a dremel. takes time, and a steady hand, but works and is cheap. 😉

 

[SuperPickle]

I too used a cutoff wheel with a dremel and got good results (no scratches). A perfectly circular cut might be tough, so I opted for an octagonal cut which looks swell IMHO. If you chose for the holesaw and don't want to drop the $$ for one, you can often rent them at your local rental shop or hardware store for a few bucks. You'll need a tough drill if you need a big hole though.

 

[Dan]

For blowholes I use a bi-metal hole saw in my drill. For windows I use a jigsaw.

 

[Quad]

yeah for holes a bi-metal holesaw is best. but as you go over 3inches, they get sort of expensive. but at the same time, you get a perfect hole and its very easy to use.

 

[talonts]

Home Depot carries Blu-Mol holesaws. They don't have a 4.5" (for 120mm), but they have a 4.25" for $21.76, 3" (for 80mm fans) for $13.46, and the arbor for about $10.

Some HDs also rent tools, but I'm going to buy, since I'll be modding many cases in the future.