Product Description
The CMT 537.413.31 Forstner Bit delivers clean, flat-bottom holes in softwood with the precision and control that woodworkers and cabinetmakers depend on. Sized at 1 5/8" in diameter with a 3/8" shank, this bit is purpose-built for hinge installation, shelf pin boring, cabinet hardware fitting, and creating arched or oval openings at any angle. Its toothed rim design and super strength SP steel construction make it a reliable choice when accuracy and clean bore walls are non-negotiable.
Key Features
- Precision-Balanced Centre Point - keeps the bit locked on target from the first plunge, eliminating drift and ensuring repeatable, accurately positioned flat-bottom holes every time.
- 2 Precision-Ground Spurs (V2) - score the wood fibers ahead of the main cutting edges, producing clean, chip-free bore walls that require little to no sanding or cleanup after drilling.
- Toothed Rim Design - at diameters of 25mm and larger, the toothed rim replaces a standard rim to actively manage heat buildup, preventing overheating during extended drilling operations and extending bit life.
- Super Strength SP Steel Construction - provides the hardness and edge retention needed for consistent, smooth cutting performance across repeated use in softwood applications.
- 3/8" Shank (3/8 x 30mm) - compatible with standard drill presses and handheld drills, making this bit versatile across common workshop setups without requiring specialized tooling.
- Right-Hand (RH) Rotation - matches the standard rotation direction of virtually all drill presses and handheld drills, ensuring safe, straightforward use without any special setup.
- 90mm Overall Length (3 35/64") - provides the reach needed to drill full-depth flat-bottom holes in typical workpiece thicknesses encountered in cabinetry and millwork applications.
Why This Product
- Designed specifically for flat-bottom hole drilling - unlike twist bits or spade bits, this Forstner bit leaves a perfectly flat floor at the bottom of each hole, which is essential for hinge cups, shelf pin sockets, and hardware recesses that must seat flush and function correctly.
- Toothed rim prevents overheating at larger diameters - at 1 5/8" (41.3mm), this bit operates in the size range where standard rims are prone to heat buildup. The toothed rim design addresses this directly, protecting both the bit and the workpiece during longer cuts.
- Flat-bottom holes at any angle - the precision centre point and stable rim guidance allow drilling of oval or arched openings at compound angles, expanding creative and functional design possibilities beyond straight perpendicular bores.
- 2-spur geometry for chip-free bores - the V2 spur configuration scores the wood perimeter before material is removed, which is critical when working with softwood where tear-out along the bore edge is a common problem with less precise tooling.
Specifications
- Manufacturer Part Number: 537.413.31
- Brand: CMT Orange Tools
- Product Type: Forstner Bit
- Diameter: 1 5/8"
- Total Length: 3 35/64" (90mm)
- Shank: 3/8 x 30mm
- Number of Spurs: 2 (V2)
- Number of Teeth: 2
- Rim Type: Toothed rim (for diameters at or above 25mm)
- Material: Super Strength SP Steel
- Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)
Approved Applications
- Drilling precise flat-bottom holes for hinge cup installation
- Boring shelf pin and hardware mounting holes
- Creating arched and oval openings at any angle
- Installing cabinet and furniture hardware
- Flat-bottom boring in natural softwood
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials is this Forstner bit rated to cut?
This bit is designed for drilling in natural softwood. The toothed rim design and SP steel construction are optimized for clean, flat-bottom boring in softwood workpieces.
Why does this bit use a toothed rim instead of a standard rim?
Standard rims provide good guidance but are prone to overheating at larger diameters. At diameters of 25mm and above - which includes this 1 5/8" bit - CMT uses a toothed rim design to dissipate heat during cutting and prevent overheating of the bit and the surrounding wood material.
Can this bit drill holes at an angle for arched or oval openings?
Yes. The precision-balanced centre point and stable rim guidance allow this Forstner bit to bore oval and arched openings at any angle, making it suitable for decorative and functional millwork applications beyond standard perpendicular drilling.
Is this bit compatible with a handheld drill as well as a drill press?
Yes. The 3/8 x 30mm shank is compatible with both drill press chucks and handheld drill chucks of the appropriate size. For best results and flattest bore floors, use in a drill press; handheld use is possible with careful, controlled operation.
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.