The Best Type Of Router Bit To Use
A router is a tool commonly used in woodworking that helps the woodworker accomplish a unique task. Routers can be either handheld or a powerful electric tool and are used to cut grooves or finishes into wood or plastic. Typically you would see a router used for cabinetry, or molding in a home to create clean cut edges and beautiful patterns. Because of its unique qualities, the router is an extremely important tool for any woodworker, and can help create signature pieces or finishes.
There are many different types of routers available depending on your woodworking needs. For example, there is the common wood router typically used in woodworking, a CNC router which is a powerful computer-controlled tool, or a plunge router, which is another electric router option that comes with housing that allows for accurate and controlled movements during use. Whatever type of model you prefer, you will need to find the perfect router bits to accomplish your work.
Router bits come in a range of different sizes and shapes that allows you to achieve the desired look. Since there are so many products on the market, all ranging in price, shape, and functionality, it is important to understand the different common bits on the market and how they operate to determine which bit will best fit your woodworking needs.
Rabbeting Bits
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Rabbeting bits actually come as a two piece unit. The piece located at the tip of the bit is a spinning pilot bearing, which creates almost a shoulder on the wood. This is typically used to join two different pieces depending on what you are creating. These usually come in sets, rather than on their own, ranging in size and depth to give you different options. You will notice that in these sets, the spinning pilot bearing is what will vary in size, allowing you to cut different size shoulders into the wood. These bearings can be attached to the same unit, making it much easier to switch out in between sizes.
Chamfer Bits
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Chamfer bits are commonly known for creating clean beveled edges in the wood. These give a very minimal finish, but adds character nonetheless. You can sometimes find these edges on the sides of countertops. If you have a project you are working on with multiple edges, the chamfer bit may be a great option for your project. These bits also come in a range of different sizes depending on your needs, and are a great, basic bit to try if you are new to using a router.
Edge-Forming Bits
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Edge-forming bits come in a variety of different options including beads, rounded edges, concave quarter circles, S-shaped edges, and much more. These bits will give you a fun and unique style that looks very decorative on any finished piece.
With these bits, you’re going to get a very unique and fun edge that looks very decorative. You can get a range of different styles and sizes to get a specific edge style. Because there are so many options when it comes to edge-forming bits, its important to identify your purpose for using one in the first place. Make sure that the bit that you are looking for will match the project you are working on for your desired outcome. If you are unsure of what edge-forming bit would be best for your project, try running by your local hardware store and asking a worker in the woodworking department. With their expertise, you will be able to find the right product to complete your project.
Straight Bits
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Straight bits are among the most common bits in the woodworking world. These bits create a nice, even groove or a dado, which is a groove created across the grain instead of with it. The purpose of the straight bit is to hollow out different sections of the wood for your project. As with most bits, these also range in size, width, and depth, to create the groove you need for your project.
Flush-Trim Bits
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These particular bits are designed to trim off the edges of your project to create a flat, even edge. These can be used on a variety of different material surfaces, and are another common option for woodworkers due to their popularity and practicality. One thing that is important to note when using a flush-trim bit is to find a good quality pilot bearing and a cutter that are the same diameter. This will allow you to match cuts between materials, and create a solid corner seal.
Specialized Bits
In addition to what we have covered, there is a wide category to explore of specialized bits. These bits are for the one-off projects, or if you are looking to create a special effect in the wood that requires a unique bit for the task. Whether you are looking for a specific size, a bit to cut certain materials, or even higher quality, there are many options that will allow you to get a certain cut or style you are looking to achieve. Once you identify what you will need to use your bit for, you will be able to look for the bit to get the job done well.
Choosing The Right Bits
Now that you have a great base of understanding the different bits on the market, how can you choose the right bit for your project? There are actually a number of different factors to look for when choosing a bit. One of the most important things to look out for when choose the right bit is to look at the material it is made out of, as this will impact the quality of the bit. A good rule of thumb is to look for bits that are made with carbide cutters or high-speed steel, as these will provide the highest level of quality for your project. Anything less than that tends to not cut to the level of quality you need, and can sometimes break.
Next, you will want to check the edges for sharpness. Some of the cheaper brands do not have quite as sharp edges as some of the top shelf options. While this normally isn’t a huge problem when it comes to your project, you will want to find a bit that has sharp edges to prevent it from becoming too dull that it will not cut the material to the level you are needing. While you don’t have to spend a ton of money to find a good quality bit, you don’t want to go with the cheapest version either or the quality of your project may suffer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many places that you can find router bits. Any hardware store will carry these, and even some online stores. Different router bits will help you turn your project into a masterpiece, by adding character and design to your woodworking. Even as a beginner in woodworking projects, routers and their accessories are easy to learn and great tools to have as you continue to advance your skill and build new projects. Nevertheless, quality is extremely important when it comes to routers and router bits. Make sure you find the right products to fit your needs and produce your top quality work.