Which type of wood drill bit to use

 

Welcome to the forums.

That's a lot of holes to drill.

Just commenting on the bit only.... as an electrician I've changed over to the Bosch Daredevil bits. They have a starter bit on the end that draws the bit thru the wood. Be careful of nails. One nail and the edge is gone.

Bosch Daredevil speed bore bits

 

For a 1.5" hole I would use a hole saw.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/Spyder-1-1-...Saw/1000060881

 

I would go with the bits said. They go through wood like it is butter.

 

I would question the longevity of the hole saw bit to drill that many holes.

 

I would probably at least start with a traditional spade bit just because, given my luck and that many holes, the odds are that I'd hit a nail sooner or later. Otherwise, the speed bores that PJ linked are definitely the way to go. A whole lot faster, less vibration, and less chipping. And not that a spade bit plays well with nails either, but they don't have the lead screw to pull them along so if you suspect something you can take it easy and if you're lucky catch it on that first "tink" and pull it back out with maybe only a minor knick. The speed bores pull themselves through and you won't stop it quick enough. A hole saw is going to cut slower, wear faster, and take a whole lot more time.

 

Hi, I would choose a Plantitary bit .https://www.circlecsupply.com/milwau...lfeed-bit.html
Geo

 

Those are good bits Geo but you'd need to use a beefy right angle drill with them.

 

Well I guess what ever it takes to get the job done Pete, he just has to make sure he gets a good hold on the drill.
Geo