drillhole
I have been having problems using hole saws when removing the plug of material after use. Looking at What is the right way to clear the drilled plug out of a hole saw? it is still awkward and I have considered spending the extra on buying Forstner bits as an alternative.
But then I am told they are not for drilling all the way through. Is it okay (or even safe or wise) to use Forstner bits in this way.
Ideally, hole saws have holes or slots in their sides, so you can pry out the scrap, or in the top so you can push it out.
(source: mkmorse.com)
Poke in there with a screw driver or other sharp object. You shouldn't need to disassemble everything; just unplug the drill.
I assume yours don't have this already. If you are going to be doing this a lot, you might want to buy a new hole saw with better holes.
Alternatively, you can try drilling holes in the top of yours. Secure the hole saw in a vice or otherwise clamp it down firmly, and drill two holes on opposite sides in the top.
With two holes in the top, you can just push out the scrap with two large pins or nails.
Edit: some have larger side holes which may be easier to clear out. You could possibly enlarge the holes on yours with a file.
Get some flat bar and drill the hole size that you require. clamp the flat bar into position over the existing hole (in the correct position). Then drill or file into the flat bar hole (acting as a guide/template) to your desired position.
Best Answer
I'm not sure why someone told you that you can't drill all the way though with a Forstner bit, but in my opinion, they are incorrect. These bits excel at creating a flat-bottomed hole but will also drill completely through the material just fine. I regularly use mine in a drill press but they can also be used in a handheld drill.
I find that they splinter the material much less than a spade-type bit does although they are significantly more expensive.
Here is what Rockler says about them:
Rockler