Champion CT7 5/8 in Tungsten Carbide Tipped Hole Cutter - Fast, Clean

In this review the Champion CT7 5/8 in tungsten carbide tipped hole cutter is assessed for professionals who need fast, accurate large-diameter holes in metal and other tough materials. The bottom line: it is for electricians, plumbers, mechanics and fabricators who want a portable, drill-mounted cutter that consistently makes smooth, bur free holes up to 1 in deep. The CT7 stands out because its carbide tips and triple edge cutting system deliver noticeably faster cutting and cleaner edges compared with typical bi-metal holesaws.

Key Features

• Carbide tipped teeth: provide longer tool life and maintain sharpness for multiple cuts in steel and stainless steel without rapid dulling.
• Triple edge cutting system: produces fast, bur free drilling for clean holes that reduce finishing time on metal and fiberglass.
• Up to 1 in depth of cut: handles thick plate, pipe wall and composite panels so fewer tool changes are needed on varied jobs.
• Ejector spring: pushes out the slug quickly for safer, faster workflow when drilling multiple holes.
• Safety collar stop: prevents over penetration to protect materials and improve operator control when using an electric drill.

Who It's For

The CT7 is best for tradespeople who need a compact, drill-mounted hole cutter capable of penetrating steel plate, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum and plastics up to 1 in thick. Electricians cutting junction and switch box holes, mechanics working on auto body or truck frame tasks, and HVAC technicians cutting ductwork will find the cutter especially useful.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who require extremely high volume production where a dedicated drill press or milling machine would be faster, or those who need holes deeper than 1 in. Hobbyists who only cut occasional wood may prefer a traditional wood Forstner bit instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Fast, clean cuts with minimal burrs thanks to the triple edge carbide design.
• Durable on many jobs and noticeably sharper and quicker than many bi-metal alternatives.
• Ejector spring and safety collar speed up repetitive work and reduce over penetration accidents.

Cons

• Some users report mixed durability; while many holes are completed without issue, there are occasional reports of breakage under extreme misuse.

Specifications

Brand	Champion
Model	CT7 carbide tipped hole cutter
Cutting depth	Up to 1 in
Materials	Steel, stainless steel, iron, aluminum, copper, cast iron, fiberglass, plastics
Cutting system	Triple edge carbide tipped
Features	Ejector spring and safety collar stop
Shank sizes	9/16 in to 3 in sizes use 3/8 in shank; 3-1/4 in to 4-1/2 in use 1/2 in shank

Our Verdict

The Champion CT7 5/8 in carbide tipped hole cutter is a practical, cost-effective choice for tradespeople who need fast, clean holes in metal and mixed materials up to 1 in thick. It delivers clear advantages over bi-metal holesaws for on-site work, offering cleaner edges and features that speed repetitive drilling, making it good value for professionals who operate a hand drill rather than stationary equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cutter be used in an electric drill?
Yes. It is designed specifically for use in electric drills and includes shank sizes compatible with common drill chucks.

What materials and thicknesses will it cut?
The CT7 cuts steel plate, stainless steel, iron, aluminum, copper, cast iron, fiberglass and plastics up to 1 in thick.

Does it eject the slug automatically?
It has an ejector spring that helps push out the slug after cutting to save time and improve safety.