Embodiments in this disclosure include a cutting tool mounting block that is securely mounted to the periphery of a wheel. The mounting block includes a body portion with a channel having a width that expands along the length of the body portion. The cutting tool mounting block also includes an aperture configured to accept a single cutting tooth, in some embodiments. The cutting tool mounting block may also include a front feature that creates a clearance between the cutting tooth surface and the body portion. Some embodiments include the assembly of three mounting blocks on a stump grinder wheel, which can increases the bite each tooth takes, it can decrease the drag in the cutting wheel, and it can decrease chip recirculation.