CMT T-Slot Bit 1-7/64" x 17/32" with 1/2" Shank by CMT is a precision-engineered keyhole routing bit designed to cut T-shaped wall-mounting slots in wood panels, plywood, MDF, and a wide range of common materials. Whether you are securing picture frames, mirrors, plaques, or other wall hangings, this carbide-tipped bit creates clean, accurate keyhole slots that hold workpieces firmly against the wall while keeping them perfectly level and straight. The 7/16" small diameter neck and 1-7/64" cutting diameter produce a classic T-slot profile, making it equally well-suited for creating removable joints using hexagonal head bolts in cabinetry and furniture assembly applications.

Key Features

• Right-Hand (RH) Rotation - compatible with standard router spindle direction, ensuring smooth chip ejection and consistent cut quality without reversing setup.
• 1-7/64" Cutting Diameter with 17/32" Cutting Height - produces a fully formed T-slot profile in a single plunge pass, eliminating the need for multiple passes or secondary cleanup cuts.
• 11mm Small Diameter Neck - sized to accommodate M5, M6, and M8 hexagonal head bolts, making this bit practical for both decorative wall-hanging slots and functional removable panel joints.
• 1/2" Shank - the larger shank diameter provides increased rigidity and reduced vibration compared to smaller shanks, delivering cleaner slots and improved routing accuracy.
• 2-Tooth (2-Flute) Carbide-Tipped Design (HW) - tungsten carbide cutting edges maintain sharpness through extended production runs in hardwood, softwood, MDF, plywood, chipboard, laminates, melamine, and plastic.
• 2-7/32" Total Length - sufficient clearance from the collet to reach recessed workpiece surfaces and accommodate standard router table setups without interference.
• Recommended for Use with a Plunge Router - the plunge action allows the bit to enter the workpiece cleanly and retract safely, which is the correct technique for producing accurate keyhole and T-slot openings.
• CMT Orange Shield Non-Stick Coating - prevents pitch and resin buildup on the bit body, reduces heat accumulation during cutting, protects against corrosion, and extends overall service life.
• SinterHIP Industrial Chrome Carbide - carbide processed via Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) prevents material failure and extends cutting life across demanding production environments.
• Tri-Metal Brazing (Silver-Copper-Silver) - this three-layer brazing method protects the carbide tip when cutting harder wood or composites and reduces the chance of failed welds, improving long-term reliability.
• Anti-Kickback Design - controls the depth of cut and minimizes kickback risk, improving operator safety during handheld and table-mounted routing operations.

Why This Product

• Secure, Level Wall Hanging in One Step - the T-slot profile created by this bit lets frames, plaques, and wall hangings mount on screws or nails and sit perfectly straight without additional leveling hardware or adhesives.
• Versatile for Both Decorative and Structural Joints - designed to produce slots compatible with M5, M6, and M8 hex head bolts, so a single bit handles both decorative mounting applications and removable furniture or panel joints.
• Built for Plunge Router Workflow - the geometry is specifically optimized for plunge entry, so woodworkers using a standard plunge router can achieve accurate, repeatable slots without specialized fixturing.
• Durable Carbide Construction for Extended Production Use - the combination of SinterHIP carbide, Tri-Metal Brazing, and the CMT Orange Shield coating means the bit holds its edge longer and resists the pitch buildup that shortens the life of uncoated router bits.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number: 850.603.11
• Brand: CMT Orange Tools
• Diameter: 1-7/64"
• Small Diameter: 11mm
• Cutting Height: 17/32"
• Total Length: 2-7/32"
• Shank: 1/2"
• Number of Teeth: 2
• Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)
• Blade Material: Carbide-Tipped (HW/TCT)
• Product Type: T-Slot Bit / Keyhole Bit

Approved Applications

• Routing keyhole slots for wall-mounted picture frames, mirrors, and plaques
• Creating T-slots for removable joints using M5, M6, and M8 hexagonal head bolts
• Wall hanging slot routing in solid hardwood and softwood panels
• T-slot routing in plywood, MDF, chipboard, laminates, melamine, and plastic
• Decorative and functional panel mounting slot production on handheld routers, router tables, and CNC routing machines