Another Router Bit ?

[Stan Johnsey]

I have some cheap (HF) flush trim bits. I want to get a good Whiteside bit. The first job will be trimming sold wood edges glued to 3/4 plywood.

I want a 1/2" shank, choices are two flute, three flute, single bearing, double bearing, anything from from 1/2" to 2" cutting length. Is there a disadvantage to having a longer bit? Is there an advantage to three flutes? Disadvantage?

[Prashun Patel]

The more flutes, the smoother the cut.

The longer the bit, the thicker stock you can cut with it, but it can be less stable in a collet than a shorter bit.

Top bearing is good for pattern routing with a plunge router.
Bottom bearing is good for pattern routing on a table.

There are also down shear bits, where the flutes are angled to reduce tear out.

The BEST bit, IMHO is a spiral carbide bit. These leave exceptionally smooth edges, and can be used for plunge work better than a flush trim bit can. The upcut type are eject chips from the hole, but may leave a ragged top edge; the downcuts reduce top edge tearing, but can leave chips in the hole.

I use FT bits mainly for trimming edge bands and pattern routing on the table. Therefore, if it were me, I'd get a 1 1/4" long spiral upcut bit with a bottom bearing.

[Mike Heidrick]

Brian at holbren dot com has great prices on Whiteside spiral bits.

[scott spencer]

Brian at holbren dot com has great prices on Whiteside spiral bits.

Yep...and he offers 10% to SMC members. Use "SMC10" discount code.