Last week I talked a bit about the uses for Electric Routers.
This week I will be imparting a little advice on picking the best size router bit for the job.
A router is one of the most versatile tools a workshop can have, and with the right jigs you can use it for cutting circles, edge-join wood, veneer, you can rout a dado rail, and more.
But you need to know what size router bit to use.
Router bits come in two types of material.
Older or cheaper ones are usually made of HSS - High Speed Steel, alloy tool steel designed to keep an edge longer than normal carbon tool steel.
Carbide tipped bits are much longer lasting, though they're also more expensive Router bits typically come in either ½ inch or ¼ inch size.
The sizing refers to the diameter of the shank, the part of the bit that is inserted into the router.
The best router bit for you depends on what you plan on using it for.
½ inch ones have several advantages.
First, a thicker shank means less vibration and more resistance to bending or breaking.
Second, the larger shank allows you to use a larger diameter one.
In general, then, if your router will take a ½ inch bit, you should use one.
While the difference in price between ¼ inch and ½ inch bits is negligible, though, most lower priced routers support only ¼ inch bits, while most higher priced models will support both.
Therefore, if your router will take the larger bit that's usually the better choice, but if you use your router only occasionally or for light work you're likely to have little choice.
You might find your router will only take ¼ inch bits.
When it comes to selecting the specific bit for a specific job, you'll be guided by the terms of the job itself; a 3/8 inch straight dado rail obviously requires a 3'8 inch straight bit.
Just like using the widest shank you can, though, you should look for the shortest bit you can too.
A longer bit will vibrate more and cause wear and tear on your router and the bit itself.
General bits you'll probably need for most routing jobs include a 1/8 round over bit, and a ¼ round over bit, several straight cut bits in different sizes and a flush trim bit, usually in ½ inch, which will allow you to machine wooden pieces to identical size and shape.
Fluting patterns and rail shapes usually require their own bit to produce.