Product Description
CMT Forstner Bit - 1 1/2" Diameter, 3/8" Shank, Right-Hand Rotation is a precision boring tool engineered for drilling clean, flat-bottom holes in softwood. With a toothed rim design on larger diameters (25mm and above), a precision-balanced centre point, and super strength SP steel construction, this bit delivers accurate, repeatable results whether you are installing cabinet hinges, drilling shelf pin holes, or creating oval and arched openings at any angle in a workpiece.
Key Features
- Toothed Rim Design (diameters >= 25mm) - the toothed rim on this 1 1/2" bit actively dissipates heat during extended drilling, reducing the risk of scorching or burning the workpiece and prolonging bit life during production-rate work.
- Precision-Balanced Centre Point - keeps the bit on-center from the moment it contacts the surface, eliminating wander and producing repeatable, accurately placed flat-bottom holes without the need for a starter hole.
- 2 Ground Spurs (V2) - the dual spurs score the wood fibers ahead of the main cutting edges, shearing the perimeter cleanly so bore walls emerge chip-free and smooth with minimal tearout.
- 2 Cutting Edges (Z2) - two precision-ground cutting edges remove material evenly on each rotation, balancing cutting forces for a consistently level, flat bottom in every hole.
- Super Strength SP Steel Construction - the SP steel body holds a sharp cutting edge under the friction and heat of repeated softwood drilling, maintaining precision over a longer service life than standard tool steel alternatives.
- 3/8" x 30mm Shank - the 3/8" shank fits standard drill press chucks and handheld drill chucks, making this bit versatile across common workshop setups without an adapter.
- Right-Hand (RH) Rotation - designed for standard right-hand drill press and handheld drill operation, compatible with virtually all conventional drilling equipment.
- 90mm (3 35/64") Total Length - the overall length provides adequate clearance for deep plunge cuts while remaining manageable in a drill press or portable drill setup.
Why This Product
- Flat-bottom holes with no pilot required - the precision-balanced centre point locates accurately on the workpiece surface, so you can drill a true flat-bottom hole in softwood without pre-drilling, saving setup time on hinge and hardware installation jobs.
- Heat management at larger diameters - at 1 1/2" diameter (38mm, well above the 25mm threshold), this bit uses a toothed rim specifically to combat the overheating that standard rims cause at larger sizes, protecting both the bit and the wood during longer bores.
- Versatile angular and shaped cuts - because a Forstner bit cuts by its rim rather than by flute geometry, this bit can create oval and arched openings by entering a workpiece at an angle, going beyond what a standard twist or spade bit can accomplish.
- Compatible with common workshop equipment - the standard 3/8" shank works directly in drill press chucks and handheld drills, so there is no need for a special collet or adapter to get to work immediately.
Specifications
- Manufacturer Part Number: 537.381.31
- Brand: CMT Orange Tools
- Diameter: 1 1/2"
- Total Length: 3 35/64" (90mm)
- Shank: 3/8 x 30mm
- Number of Spurs: 2
- Number of Cutting Edges: 2
- Rim Type: Toothed rim (for diameters >= 25mm, prevents overheating)
- Material: Super Strength SP Steel
- Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)
Approved Applications
- Drilling precise flat-bottom holes for hinge installation in softwood cabinet doors and frames
- Boring holes for shelf pins and hardware mounting
- Creating oval and arched openings at any angle in softwood panels
- Installing cabinet hardware requiring a clean, flat-bottomed recess
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wood is this Forstner bit designed to cut?
This bit is designed for drilling precise flat-bottom holes in softwood. The source data specifies softwood as the primary compatible material, so it is best used in softwood applications for optimal performance and clean results.
Why does this bit use a toothed rim instead of a standard rim?
Standard rims provide better guidance but tend to overheat at larger diameters. Because this bit is 1 1/2" (38mm) - well above the 25mm threshold - CMT designed it with a toothed rim to overcome heat buildup during drilling, protecting both the bit and the workpiece surface.
Can this bit drill holes at an angle to create arched or oval openings?
Yes. Because a Forstner bit cuts via its rim geometry rather than flute-based cutting, this 1 1/2" bit can enter a workpiece at an angle to create oval and arched openings, making it useful for decorative and joinery work beyond simple round through-holes.
What shank size does this Forstner bit use, and what machines does it fit?
This bit uses a 3/8" x 30mm shank, which fits standard 3/8" and larger chucks found on drill presses and handheld drills. No special adapter is required for most common workshop machines with right-hand rotation.
Reviews
FAQs
Standard Shipping is free on most orders over $50 within the contiguous US. If the order is under $50.00, the shipping is $9.99 set fee for shipping within the contiguous US.
Most of our products will ship within 1 to 3 Business Days. Some Special order products will ship within 2 to 5 Business Days. Preorders will be shipped to you on a first come first serve basis as soon as available from the manufacturer. Items that are "Made-to-Order" (Custom order products) will be shipped when fabrication is completed, shipping and delivery times will vary and depend on manufacturing.
Products that are shipped directly from the manufacturer will have processing and fulfilment times subject to manufacturer availability.
Preorders are shipped on a first come first serve basis as soon as available from the manufacturer, the sooner you place your Preorder the sooner your order will ship.
Freight shipping Policy:
Orders/Items too large or heavy may require special handling/Shipping and may require to be sent by truck. Someone must be present to accept truck deliveries. Standard truck delivery is to a dock facility designed to receive freight. You will be notified within 24 hours of ordering to confirm delivery. Lift gates for deliveries are available for an additional fee.
We offer Financing options through Clicklease
Please email your Return request to info@FactoryDirectSupplyOnline.com
Include the order number and the reason for your return.
All returns, regardless of their categorization, must include all original parts, be in their original packaging, and in the condition in which they were received. You may not qualify to receive a refund If the returned item is used, damaged, missing any parts, or is damaged during return shipping.
Checkout our complete Return policy
You can contact us through our contact page! We will be happy to assist you.