Need Router Bit Help

[Mike Kelly]

I have recently seen an ad or picture in a magazine or catalog of a router bit that can be used for drilling. It had a flat brazed carbide cutter on the bottom like a Forstner bit would have in addition to the side cutters. I cannot remember where I found it and need the bit now. Just should have bought it when I saw it, but I procrastinated beyond my memory limit (short). I have tried regular bits with my ShopBot, but get the "brown hole syndrome". Thanks.

[Bill VanderLaan]

I bought a bit similar to what you are describing to get a clean bottom on my dado cuts. I bought it from MLCS. Not sure if it will work in a shopbot, as it has a bearing on it, but it sounds a lot like the bit you are describing.

http://mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/smarthtml/pages/bt_dado.html

They also sell plunge-cutting straight bits, which might work better for your application.

http://mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/smarthtml/pages/bt_plung.html

Best-

BVL

[Mike Kelly]

The plunge cutting straight bit will do it. It only gets down to a 3/8" size. I wonder if I can find any smaller ones????? Thanks for the info.

[Justin James]

Mike-
look for end mills as used by metal workers.

[Rick Lizek]

www.hersaf.com (http://www.hersaf.com)
These folks make a very unique and excellent bit. The P-series is good for drilling and routing.and are small diameter.

[glenn bradley]

MLCS spiral bits also plunge and are made down to 1/8".

[Brian Gumpper]

MLCS spiral bits also plunge and are made down to 1/8".

What Glenn said. Imported bits smaller than 3/8" (and including 3/8" at times) can break easily. If you need smaller, consider solid carbide straight bits or spiral bits.