Cutting tool with multiple flutes defining different profiles, and method

A one-piece cutting tool having multiple flutes, comprising a tool body having a longitudinal axis, wherein a first flute is provided in the body and comprises a first leading edge that defines a first profile when rotated about the longitudinal axis, and a second flute is provided in the body and comprises a second leading edge that defines a second profile when rotated about the longitudinal axis, the first and second profiles being different from each other and being adapted to cut a workpiece in succession, wherein the tool comprises a third flute provided in the body and comprises a third leading edge that defines a third profile when rotated about the longitudinal axis, the first, second, and third profiles being different from each other, at least a portion of the first leading edge and at least a portion of the third leading edge between a first set of two points at different radii from the longitudinal axis are disposed axially inward of a portion of the second leading edge between the first set of two points, a portion of the first leading edge between a second set of two points along the longitudinal axis is disposed radially outward of a portion of the second leading edge and a portion of the third leading edge between the second set of two points, and a portion of the third leading edge between a third set of two points along the longitudinal axis is disposed radially outward of a portion of the second leading edge and a portion of the first leading edge between the third set of two points.