Tooling Router Bits 101: Know Your Bits
Anatomy of A Router Bit
There are a few facets to a Router Tooling Mill Bit measurements like (a) Total Length, (b) Spiral Flute (c) Shank Diameter, (d) Shank Length, (e) Bit Length, (f) Bit Diameter, to name a few.
Tooling End Geometry
Different end-geometry lends its self to different applications & finishes.
- Ball End Geometry
- Corner End Geometry
- Square End Geometry
- Profile End Geometry
Spiral Flute Count
A general rule of thumb is that the higher the flute count – the higher the possible the cut rate.
- Single (1) Flute (Top View)
- Double (2) Flute (Top View)
- Tripple (3) Flute (Top View)
- Quad (4) Flute (Top View)
- Penta (5) Flute (Top View)
- Hexa Flute (6) (Top View)
- Octa (8) Flute (Top View)
Spiral Angle & Direction: Straight vs Up-Cut vs Down-Cut vs Compression-Cut Toolings
Straight Bit |
Up-Cut Bit |
Down-Cut Bit |
Compression Bit |
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Advantages |
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Disadvantages |
Less Efficient Than Spiral Tooling |
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Recommended Materials |
Generally Fits Most Materials |
Plastics, Aluminium Etc. Generally Materials With Lower Heat Tolerances. |
Plywood, Laminates, MDF, Hardwoods, Softer woods. |
Plywood, Laminates, MDF, Hardwood, Softer woods. |