Cutting a round hole in fiber cement board

[Lineman North Florida]

What is the best tool to cut a 3" round hole in fiber cement board? I've got a couple to cut in my hunting camp walls and have been trying to figure out the best tool to use to get the job done, I've been thinking about a regular bi-metal hole saw and I know it will ruin it but I can't come up with any other ideas, so has anyone done this before and if so what tool did you use.

 

[Diggin It]

Pilot hole, then cut out with a jig saw with a carbide or diamond blade.

 

[Diggin It]

Or maybe: 1-1/4 In. - 3-1/4 In. Carbide Grit Hole Saw Assorted Set 9 Pc

Doesn't say if there's a 3"

 

[Industrial Toys]

One of those cheap HF type hole saw sets for ceramic tile? I have one, but have never used it. I often sacrafice tools for a one time job. Any cheap regular hole saw should do one hole.

 

[Steppenwolfe]

What is the best tool to cut a 3" round hole in fiber cement board? I've got a couple to cut in my hunting camp walls and have been trying to figure out the best tool to use to get the job done, I've been thinking about a regular bi-metal hole saw and I know it will ruin it but I can't come up with any other ideas, so has anyone done this before and if so what tool did you use.

Hole saw is fine, shouldn't ruin a good one.

 

[EddieWalker]

Hole saw works, but they wear out quickly. Mostly I use mine for sheetrock, so I don't worry too much about it if it gets a little dull.

Be sure to have a handle on the drill, it will bind on you and rip the drill out of your hand, causing some pain to your wrist if you don't have that extra handle on it.

 

[Industrial Toys]

I used a 4" (Milwalkee) bimetal hole saw on thin stainless. Messed up that saw in a hurry. Much regretted. Thought with plenty of SS cutting oil it might be OK. It won't cut nothin now!

 

[Stimw]

I used the HF bi-metal for half dozen holes when I sided my 2600 sqft house with no problems.
It's not like cutting concrete, more like cutting particle board.

 

[nwut05]

Use tile hole saw with the grit for teeth, go slow and it won't shatter around hole much.

 

[wagne223]

I just use the same keyhole saw (hand saw) that I use for drywall.
Square holes for switch box or receptacle, round hole for pipes, same saw.

Of course any concrete board I have put up has been covered with tile so the holes could be rough.