Product Description
CMT Forstner Bit 1-3/8" with 3/8" Shank by CMT is a precision flat-bottom boring bit engineered for clean, accurate hole drilling in softwood. Whether you are installing cabinet hinges, fitting shelf pins, or creating arched and oval openings at any angle, this right-hand rotating Forstner bit delivers repeatable results. The 1-3/8" cutting diameter and 3/8 x 30mm shank make it compatible with drill presses and handheld drills, and the toothed rim design at this size keeps the bit running cool through longer drilling operations.
Key Features
- Precision-Balanced Centre Point - keeps the bit accurately on center at the start of each plunge, so flat-bottom holes land exactly where marked and repeat from hole to hole without wandering.
- 2 Precision-Ground Spurs (V2) - score the wood fiber ahead of the main cutting edges, producing clean, chip-free bore walls that require little or no sanding for finish-ready results.
- Toothed Rim Design (for diameters >= 25mm) - dissipates heat during extended drilling operations, so the 1-3/8" bit stays cooler and maintains its cutting edge longer than a standard solid rim at this diameter.
- Super Strength (SP) Steel Construction - provides the hardness and edge retention needed for repeated use in softwood applications, reducing the frequency of resharpening or replacement.
- Right-Hand Rotation (RH) - matches the standard spindle direction of drill presses and handheld drills, making setup straightforward with no special adapter or reverse-chuck needed.
- 1-3/8" Cutting Diameter, 3 35/64" Overall Length - sized for common hinge and hardware boring tasks, while the 90mm body length provides clearance for angled entry cuts and oval openings.
Why This Product
- The toothed rim on this 1-3/8" bit solves the overheating problem that plagues standard solid-rim Forstner bits at larger diameters - keeping cutting performance consistent through production runs of hinge or hardware holes.
- The precision-balanced centre point and 2-spur geometry work together to eliminate tear-out at the bore perimeter, which is critical when drilling visible locations on cabinet doors or shelving.
- At 90mm overall length, the bit has enough body to enter wood at an angle, making it practical for creating arched or oval openings that a shorter bit cannot reach cleanly.
- Super Strength SP steel construction at this cutting diameter gives the bit the durability to handle repeated flat-bottom boring in softwood without the edge degrading after just a few sessions.
Specifications
- Manufacturer Part Number: 537.349.31
- Brand: CMT Orange Tools
- Diameter: 1-3/8"
- Total Length: 3-35/64"
- Shank: 3/8 x 30mm
- Number of Spurs: 2
- Number of Teeth: 2
- Rim Type: Toothed rim (for diameters >= 25mm, prevents overheating)
- Blade Material: Super Strength (SP) Steel
- Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)
Approved Applications
- Drilling precise flat-bottom holes in softwood
- Hinge installation - flat-bottom pocket for concealed and face-frame hinges
- Shelf pin and hardware hole boring
- Cabinet hardware installation
- Creating oval and arched openings at any angle
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shank size of this Forstner bit, and will it fit a standard drill chuck?
The shank is 3/8 x 30mm, which fits the 3/8" chuck capacity found on most benchtop drill presses and many handheld drills. If your drill has only a 1/4" chuck, you would need a larger chuck or an adapter. Always confirm your machine's chuck capacity before installing the bit.
Why does this 1-3/8" bit use a toothed rim instead of a standard solid rim?
Standard solid rims provide good guidance at smaller diameters, but at diameters of 25mm (roughly 1") and larger, friction increases significantly and the rim tends to overheat. CMT's toothed rim design on this bit breaks up that contact and helps dissipate heat, keeping the cutting edge performing longer during flat-bottom boring operations.
Can this bit be used to drill angled holes or create oval openings?
Yes. The source data specifically notes that this Forstner bit can create oval and arched openings at any angle. The centre point and spur geometry maintain control even when the bit enters at an angle, which is what allows it to produce oval or arched cuts rather than only circular flat-bottom holes.
What wood types is this Forstner bit rated for?
This bit is designed for drilling precise flat-bottom holes in softwood. The product data notes it is suited for natural softwood applications. For best results and longest edge life, use it within the material types listed.
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