Question for Pin Router Users

[Perry Holbrook]

I have a question for those among us who have and use a pin router. For several months I have mistakenly been using an 1/2" up-cut spiral bit for hollowing out a small block of soft maple. Four weeks ago, I found out the hard way that was a big mistake. When the head came down into the cut the hold down was not sufficient to keep the bit from picking the piece off the pin and threw it at my mid-section. I'm now recovered with no long term damage, but I need to get the set up corrected and back up and running.

So my question is I have 2 options for a bit. One is a standard straight 2 flute bit. The other is something called a slow down-cut spiral bit. The spiral is at 15 degs rather than the more standard 30 degs and is less aggresssive. The straight is the least aggressive cut and the down spiral will push the work piece down against the table but it may make it harder to slide on the table making it harder to control.

So for those who actually use a pin router what bits do you use?

Thanks, Perry

[pat warner]

Suspect your cut is trapped (inside).
As such, I (would) never use a twisted cutter for exactly that reason (your misfortune).
Slight shear maybe, no slo or fast spiral, sharp straight bits for me.
Routers (http://www.patwarner.com)

[Phil Pritchard]

I use a couple of Wadkin industrial pin routers in the shop and I always use straight cutters with a bottom cut. As you've discovered upcuts can pick up the work - I've found that downcuts won't do that but that they do trap waste material at the bottom of the cut which can lead to burning and premature blunting.

Phil

[Perry Holbrook]

Thanks, straight it will be. Perry

[Steve Clardy]

Hi Perry.
I have a 7hp pin router.

I use straight cut bits, single flute.

Two flutes work also, less aggresive cuts, but not as fast.