CMT Forstner Bit Set - 7-Piece

CMT 7-Piece Forstner Bit Set

Drill clean, precise holes with the CMT 7-Piece Forstner Bit Set. Designed for woodworking applications, these high-performance Forstner bits produce accurate holes with straight sides and flat bottoms in both hardwoods and softwoods. The staggered-tooth cutting design on the larger diameter bits helps provide efficient cutting performance and clean results.

This versatile Forstner bit set includes seven commonly used sizes, making it a practical addition to any woodworking tool collection. The bits can be used with drill presses as well as electric and cordless drills, with drill press use recommended for the best control and accuracy.

7 Common Forstner Bit Sizes

• 1/4-in. — CMT CMF-0002
• 3/8-in. — CMT CMF-0003
• 1/2-in. — CMT CMF-0004
• 5/8-in. — CMT CMF-0005
• 3/4-in. — CMT CMF-0006
• 7/8-in. — CMT CMF-0007
• 1-in. — CMT CMF-0100

Clean, Flat-Bottom Holes

Forstner bits are ideal for drilling precise flat-bottom holes for woodworking projects, including hardware installation, concealed hinges, mortising, doweling, and other applications where accurate hole depth and clean walls are important. The staggered cutting design helps larger bits maintain effective cutting action while producing smooth, straight-sided holes.

Recommended Operating Speeds

For best results and extended bit life, operate each Forstner bit within the recommended speed range for the material being drilled.

• 1/4-in.: 2400 RPM in softwood; 700 RPM in hardwood
• 3/8-in.: 2400 RPM in softwood; 500 RPM in hardwood
• 1/2-in.: 2400 RPM in softwood; 500 RPM in hardwood
• 5/8-in.: 2400 RPM in softwood; 500 RPM in hardwood
• 3/4-in.: 1500 RPM in softwood; 500 RPM in hardwood
• 7/8-in.: 1500 RPM in softwood; 500 RPM in hardwood
• 1-in.: 1500 RPM in softwood; 500 RPM in hardwood

Tips for Longer Bit Life

• Make repeated shallow cuts when drilling deep holes, allowing the bit to cool for two or three seconds between passes.
• Clear chips and debris regularly to help prevent overheating and maintain efficient cutting.
• Do not exceed the recommended RPM for the diameter of the bit or type of wood being drilled.
• Avoid applying excessive pressure, which can increase heat buildup and shorten cutting-edge life.
• When boring multiple holes for mortising or similar applications, remove chips from the previous hole before starting the next one.
• Smaller Forstner bits can be used with a hand drill, although a drill press generally provides better accuracy and control.
• Use caution when operating Forstner bits larger than 3/4-in. in a hand drill, as the bit can catch on imperfections in the wood and cause the drill to react unexpectedly.

Woodworking Versatility

Whether you're building cabinets, furniture, boxes, shelving, or other woodworking projects, the CMT 7-Piece Forstner Bit Set provides a useful selection of popular sizes for precision boring. The combination of clean cutting performance, flat-bottom hole capability, and multiple diameters makes this set well suited for both professional woodworkers and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Safety Warning

WARNING: Always wear appropriate eye protection when operating drilling and woodworking tools. Safety glasses or goggles with side shields should be worn to protect against flying objects, fragments, and particles. A face shield should be used in addition to primary eye protection when working in situations involving severe impact hazards.