Product Description
The CMT Contractor Straight Bit - 3/16" x 1/2", 1/4" Shank is a precision-ground, single-flute routing bit engineered for cutting clean slots, dadoes, and channels in wood and wood composite materials. Fitted with hi-density carbide-tipped cutting edges, this compact 3/16" diameter bit delivers smooth, accurate results in handheld routers, router tables, and CNC routing applications where a narrow kerf and reliable chip clearance are essential.
Key Features
- Hi-Density Carbide-Tipped Cutting Edges - hard-wearing carbide construction maintains a sharp, precise edge through extended routing sessions, reducing the need for frequent bit changes and keeping cuts clean in demanding materials.
- Designed for Slots and Routing Channels - the 3/16" cutting diameter and 1/2" cutting height make this bit purpose-built for narrow groove work, mortising, and template routing where tight dimensional accuracy is required.
- Engineered for Efficient Chip Clearance - the single-flute geometry promotes fast, unobstructed waste evacuation during cuts, helping to prevent clogging, reduce heat buildup, and produce a smoother finished surface.
- Right-Hand Rotation - standard RH rotation is compatible with virtually all handheld routers, router tables, and CNC machines, so the bit integrates into existing setups without any special configuration.
- 1/4" Shank - the 1/4" shank fits the most widely used router collets, making this bit a versatile option for both hobby and contractor-grade routers without adapters.
- Compact 2" Total Length - the short overall length provides added rigidity during plunge cuts and channel routing, reducing bit deflection and improving cut precision in dense substrates like MDF and plywood.
Why This Product
- When you need to rout a narrow 3/16" groove or slot with consistent depth and clean walls, the 1/2" cutting height gives you the depth capacity to complete most dado and mortise tasks in a single pass.
- The hi-density carbide tip is suited for routing not just solid hardwood and softwood, but also abrasive wood composites like MDF and chipboard, where softer cutting materials would dull quickly.
- At 2" total length with a 1/4" shank, this bit stays rigid under load - an important advantage when routing channels that demand straight, true cuts from start to finish.
- The efficient chip clearance design keeps the cut zone clear of debris, which helps maintain surface quality and reduces the heat that shortens bit life in continuous routing applications.
Specifications
- Manufacturer Part Number: 81105
- Brand: CMT Orange Tools
- Diameter: 3/16"
- Cutting Height: 1/2"
- Total Length: 2"
- Shank: 1/4"
- Number of Teeth: 1
- Material: Carbide-Tipped (HW)
- Rotation: Right-Hand (RH)
- Product Type: Contractor Straight Bit
Approved Applications
- Making slots and routing narrow channels in wood and wood composites
- Dado and groove cutting
- Mortising
- Template routing
- Plywood joinery
- Straight cuts in MDF, chipboard, and solid wood
Frequently Asked Questions
What router collet size does this bit require?
This bit uses a 1/4" shank, which fits standard 1/4" collets found on the majority of handheld routers and router tables. No adapter is needed for routers with a 1/4" collet.
Can this bit be used on a CNC routing machine?
Yes. The right-hand rotation and 1/4" shank are compatible with handheld routers, router tables, and CNC routing machines, provided the machine accepts a 1/4" collet.
What materials can this straight bit cut?
The hi-density carbide-tipped cutting edge is designed for wood and wood composites, including solid hardwood, softwood, plywood, MDF, and chipboard. The efficient chip clearance geometry helps maintain cut quality across these substrates.
Why is single-flute geometry used on this bit?
A single-flute (one tooth) design provides a larger gullet for chip evacuation compared to multi-flute bits at the same diameter. This is especially useful on narrow 3/16" bits where flute space is limited, helping keep the cut clear and reducing heat during routing.
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