Raymond Fries
11-19-2007, 7:29 AM
First I want to thank everyone for their feedback on the Box Joint Mystery thread. I have brought resolution to the problem. It was partly due to my setup and partly due to an oversized bit.
Does anyone know the specs that router bits should meet?
If you buy a 3/8” slot cutting bit, shouldn’t it cut a 3/8” slot? If the package says 3/8”, then it should cut a slot .375 and not .379 or some other number that is close. I am on my second Freud bit and it is still cuts an oversized slot. Although the bit does measure .375 across the cutting edges, it cuts a wider slot because one of the cutting edges is further from center than the other.
I am using an Incra positioner for joinery and with this bit I have to micro adjust the positioner an additional .004 every time I want to cut the next slot for box joints. This does not seem like much but it adds up. For a 6” wide project, you need to add an extra 1/8” of wood to come out even. I do not think I should have to do that.
My setup problems are resolved because the ¼” straight and ¼” dovetail bits are perfect and produce tight fitting joints; these were also Freud.
I think I might have to start looking at another brand like Whiteside or CMT to see if there is greater consistency on tolerances.
Can anyone recommend a brand that consistently delivers a cut as advertised on the package?
Does anyone know the specs that router bits should meet?
If you buy a 3/8” slot cutting bit, shouldn’t it cut a 3/8” slot? If the package says 3/8”, then it should cut a slot .375 and not .379 or some other number that is close. I am on my second Freud bit and it is still cuts an oversized slot. Although the bit does measure .375 across the cutting edges, it cuts a wider slot because one of the cutting edges is further from center than the other.
I am using an Incra positioner for joinery and with this bit I have to micro adjust the positioner an additional .004 every time I want to cut the next slot for box joints. This does not seem like much but it adds up. For a 6” wide project, you need to add an extra 1/8” of wood to come out even. I do not think I should have to do that.
My setup problems are resolved because the ¼” straight and ¼” dovetail bits are perfect and produce tight fitting joints; these were also Freud.
I think I might have to start looking at another brand like Whiteside or CMT to see if there is greater consistency on tolerances.
Can anyone recommend a brand that consistently delivers a cut as advertised on the package?