Router Bits Basics

A router bit is a tool for woodworking giving a quality finish to woodwork. It cuts wood providing a way to give a clean and even a decorative edge to woodwork. The following is some basic information about router bits to get you started in your woodworking efforts.

The Parts of a Router Bit

Here are the there main parts of a router bit:
1) The shank- the part of the router bit that is inserted into the collet (the sleeve of the router).
2) The cutting edge- this part cuts and removes the wood. They are available in several sizes and shapes.
3) The pilot- the guide for the router in order to make a correct cut. It can be an extension of the shank or a ball bearing attachment.

The Different Kinds of Router Bits

While there are over 50 router bit profiles, here are the four basic types of router bits:
1) Grooving Bits- These bits make a groove in the piece of wood. This type of bit is commonly used for street address signs for homes. Different types of grooving bits include the V-Groove, the Round-Nose and the Straight Bits.
2) Joinery Bits- Router bits that help make several different types of joints. This type of router bit includes the Finger Joint, the Drawer Lock, the Rile and Stile, and Dovetail Bits.
3) Edge Bits- Bits used to create different-shaped edges in woodwork. Examples of these types of bits include the Beading, Flush, and Round-over bits.
4) Specialized Bits- These bits do not fit into one of the above categories and have more specialized purposes including the Key Hole, Raised Panel, and T-Slot bits.

Carbide versus HSS bits

Most of the bits you will find available in hardware stores are carbide (short for tungsten carbide) tipped. These router bits are made of a very hard material that stays sharp longer than steel and is resistant to heat. However, this type of router bit can chip and is very expensive (this is why most of the bits are tipped and not made completely of carbide).

High Speed Steel (HSS) bits have been around longer but are not as readily available as the carbide bits. An HSS router bit is not as expensive but will dull fairly quickly. The HSS router bit is more suited for occasional work while a carbide router bit is meant for greater use, lasting 20 times longer than the HSS router bit.

How to Take Care of Router Bits

To keep your router bit set in good shape, you will want to do small amounts of cutting at a time. This not only keeps you away from overheating, but will also extend the life of the router bit. Always use the shortest and widest bit possible for your project. This will again prevent overheating and will also avoid chattering.

Always keep your router bits clean and free from pitch and in good condition to avoid dulling. Remove any pitch and tar from the router bit (if not removed, it will cause the bit to unevenly bounce on the surface). Commercial bit cleaner can be used to remove pitch and tar; however, a scrap piece of wood will usually do the trick. This will help keep your router bits in good working order.

The parts of a router bit, the types of bits, the difference between HSS bits and carbide bits, and the proper care of router bits are all important concepts to understand when selecting your own router bit set. This basic knowledge will help you know what you need in a router bit set and how to use it properly.

Kaitlin Carruth is a client account specialist with 10x Marketing - More Visitors. More Buyers. More Revenue. For more information about router bits, please visit Tool America.

---

Hot Tub Heaven

What will your next home improvement project be? Will it... Read More

Top Tips When Planning a Conservatory or Sunroom

General advice.Negotiate fairly with suppliers. Don't expect to get all... Read More

Color Help: Color Imagery for Happy Homes

Color researchers have estimated that up to 70% of our... Read More

Bathroom Interior Design

Any advice or guide on the interior design of a... Read More

Basement Dehumidifiers

Basements are the most common location for dehumidifiers. Because of... Read More

Bathroom Vanity Cabinets - Considerations Before Buying Bathroom Vanities Online

Bathroom vanity cabinets are an essential component of any bathroom... Read More

Deck Decorating

On my blog, I once wrote about life on the... Read More

Imported Tools vs. Brand Name - Are They As Good?

So you are looking for hand or power tools on... Read More

Housing and Smart Houses; Energy Self Sufficient Possibilities

Housing and smart houses. I believe that we could have... Read More

Repairing Your Faulty uPVC Double Glazed Windows And Doors

It is an amazing fact that uPVC double glazing was... Read More

Electrical Safety and Power Tools

Power tools are one of the greatest conveniences for getting... Read More

Your Home is Your Symphony

"Dr. Carl Sagan once wrote, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting... Read More

Save Money On Home Improvement Projects

Many of us avoid home improvement projects due to their... Read More

Roof Cleaning - Making Your Old Roof Look Like New!

Many Florida residents that have come from the North are... Read More

Professional Asphalt Paving Contractors In California

Choosing an asphalt paving contractor can be a major event... Read More

Roller Blinds

What is behind the popularity of roller blinds. Is it... Read More

Be Cool and Comfortable While Saving Money

The cost of energy is on the rise, so if... Read More

Design Psychology: Beds and Emotional Well-Being

The bed represents the beginning and ending of life. In... Read More

Hydrogen Cell Generator For The Home

A Hydrogen Cell generator in your house could power up... Read More

Door Hardware - the Focal Point of the Home

The door is the focal point of the home which... Read More

Heres What a Jacuzzi Will Do For You

Jacuzzi's are a great recreational and health benefit for a... Read More

How About a Jungle Mural to Put Some Swing Into Your Child?s Room?

If your child loves all different types of animals, a... Read More

So You?ve Put an Offer on a Home. What?s Next?

You've finally found the home of your dreams, 3 bedrooms,... Read More

Vacation Break for Electrical Machines

Are you overloaded? Have you become a part of the... Read More

The Great American Dream

Are you ready to starting building your dream home. House... Read More

Country Home Accessories

Country home décor is the most sought after home interior... Read More

Tuscan Style Decorating For The Kitchen

A Tuscan decorating theme can put some old world charm... Read More

Bedding is Fashion for the Bed

Ladies, we spend a lot of time in the morning... Read More

Reduce Your Heating Bills This Winter

Imagine leaving a window open all winter long -- the... Read More

Manhatten Paving-Asphalt Paving Seal Coats

Why should you even consider sealing your asphalt driveway?Seal your... Read More

Maintaining Your Hot Tub

Purchasing a hot tub is a big investment and one... Read More

Hot Tubs Create a Backyard Oasis

What would you like in the backyard that is great... Read More

If You Have Any Antique Clocks...Keep Them. They May Be Valuable Keepsakes

Been shopping for antique clocks lately?It's strange that when something... Read More