Straight Flute Router Bit

[Tom Blank]

Does a carbide straight double flute router bit have any advantages over a carbide spiral cut or shear cut bit?

Thanks.

[glenn bradley]

The other way around in my experience. If I was looking for one it could be that the shearing is directional as in up-cut or down-cut. If you use double sided veneer products, there are bits that meet in the middle (http://www.whitesiderouterbits.com/catalog.html#catimgs) to "down" shear (towards center) against the veneer on both sides. Look for UP/DOWN or COMPRESSION bits if this interests you. Again, I can only speak to my experience but, straight cutter show the loss of edge a little more definitely than spirals and shears.

[david brum]

The main advantage of straight fluted bits are that they're affordable, so you don't mind using them for things like MDF, plywood, etc.

[Mel Fulks]

When you need to remove a lot of material fast, try a SINGLE flute carbide bit.