CMT Ball End Bit - 5/8" Diameter x 9/16" Cutting Height, 5/16" Radius, 1/2" Shank is a precision-engineered router bit from CMT designed to cut smooth, spherical-bottom channels in a single pass. With its 5/16" radius profile and right-hand rotation, this bit is well suited for routing rounded grooves used in pipe and cable channeling, decorative profiling, and sculpted woodworking details. The 1/2" shank provides a secure, stable grip in compatible handheld routers, router tables, and CNC routing machines, while the 2-tooth tungsten carbide (HW) cutting head delivers clean, repeatable results across a wide range of wood-based materials.

Key Features

• 5/8" cutting diameter with 5/16" radius - produces a precisely shaped, spherical-bottom groove ideal for channeling cables, pipes, and decorative inlays in one controlled pass.
• 9/16" cutting height - provides sufficient depth capacity to complete pipe and cable channels without requiring multiple repositioning passes in most standard applications.
• 1/2" shank diameter - fits a wide range of professional routers and router table setups, offering a stable, secure connection that reduces vibration during cutting.
• 2-tooth tungsten carbide (HW) cutting head - harder and more wear-resistant than standard high-speed steel, delivering longer cutting life and cleaner edges across hardwoods, softwoods, MDF, and sheet goods.
• Right-hand (RH) rotation - standard rotation compatible with the vast majority of routers on the market, making setup straightforward and consistent.
• 2 3/8" total length - compact overall profile keeps the bit rigid during operation, reducing deflection and improving cut accuracy, especially in router table and CNC applications.
• Single-pass pipe and cable channeling capability - eliminates the extra step of switching bits when cutting channels, saving time on production runs and repetitive woodworking tasks. CMT recommends cutting a preliminary groove with a straight bit first to reduce stress on the bit for deeper cuts.

Why This Product

• Efficient channel routing in one pass - CMT specifically designed this ball end bit to cut channels for pipes and cables in a single pass, reducing setup time and improving workflow efficiency on repetitive joinery and installation tasks.
• Tungsten carbide construction for long-term value - the HW (hard metal / tungsten carbide) cutting material outlasts standard steel bits, meaning fewer replacements and more consistent results over the life of the bit.
• Professional 1/2" shank for reduced vibration - the larger shank diameter compared to 1/4" alternatives provides greater rigidity, which translates to smoother cuts and less chatter, particularly important when routing rounded profiles where surface quality matters.
• Versatile across solid wood, sheet goods, and engineered panels - the 2-flute carbide design handles a broad range of materials including hardwood, softwood, plywood, MDF, and similar substrates, making this bit a practical choice for both custom woodworking and production environments.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number: 868.658.11
• Brand: CMT Orange Tools
• Product Type: Ball End Bit
• Diameter: 5/8"
• Cutting Height: 9/16"
• Radius: 5/16"
• Shank: 1/2"
• Total Length: 2 3/8"
• Number of Teeth: 2
• Material: HW (Tungsten Carbide)
• Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)

Approved Applications

• Cutting channels for pipes and cables in wood panels and solid lumber
• Spherical-bottom groove routing
• Decorative profile routing and sculpting
• 3D carving and contoured surface work
• Rounded inlay channel preparation