Downcut Spiral Router Bit in a Table..Dumb Move??

[Glen Blanchard]

I need to cut some grooves on the outside surface of the sides of some drawers for a box I am making. These grooves will ride on wooden runners. I am looking for a 5/16" cutting diameter router bit and the depth of cut will be approx. .16". As the drawers need to slide smoothly on the runners, I am looking for as smooth a cut as possible. It would seem to me that a spiral router bit would serve this purpose well. As a downcut spiral will create a smoother cut at the groove's bottom, I am leaning in this direction. However, I am concerned about safety as well, and I know that (as a general rule) the upcut spiral is the better choice if used in a table.

So, would using a 5/16" downcut spiral bit in a table be sufficiently hazardous so as to prevent me from making the purchase? I have experience using upcut spirals in a table, but not downcut and I would rather not have to dodge flying timbers.

[Gary Keedwell]

They recommend spiral down for good finish and shallow depth. .160 thousands is not very deep. IMHO If you find it too deep...two passes would be prudent.

Gary K.

[Lee DeRaud]

0.16" is less than 3/32. At that depth, the bit might as well be a straight cutter for all the difference it makes.

[David Rose]

Recheck Lee. That is just over 5/32, unless me calculator is faulty. Then blame MS. That could be a substantial cut with enough height. Though I also doubt there will be a noticable difference.

David

0.16" is less than 3/32. At that depth, the bit might as well be a straight cutter for all the difference it makes.

[Lee DeRaud]

Recheck Lee. That is just over 5/32, unless me calculator is faulty. Then blame MS. That could be a substantial cut with enough height. Though I also doubt there will be a noticable difference.

David

Duh (forehead slap)...I meant 3/16 (I think, but actually it's a bit less than that). But the cutter width is only 5/16: not that much of a cut unless you're talking about insanely hard wood.

[Glen Blanchard]

But the cutter width is only 5/16: not that much of a cut unless you're talking about insanely hard wood.

These were my thoughts also, I didn't think I was hogging off enough wood for it to be an issue. It is nice to hear it from someone else though. Thanks guys.