A Few Tips to Successfully Using Large Router Bits

Large multi-profile router bits can create an amazing variety of shapes by simple adjusting your router table's fence and the router bit height. Who doesn't love the economy of being able to get multiple uses out of a single bit? And as seen above, we offer a terrific set that includes four very popular multi-use bits (00-564). 

(55-901 & 55-902) Large & Traditional Molding Router Bits

Our Large & Traditional Molding Router Bits are perfect for remodeling and restoration jobs requiring duplication of elaborate moldings. These router bits can be used to route a variety of shapes. Use them to make delicate beads, base caps, and even a wide traditional mopboard.

(56-501) Classical Router Bit

Our Classical Router Bit mills attractive ornate shapes. It's perfect for remodeling and restoration jobs requiring duplication of elaborate moldings. This router bit can be used to rout a variety of shapes but the most common application is to make unique base moldings chair rail and panel moldings with a full 1-1/8" height.

(56-802) Multi-Profile Router Bit

Our Multi-Profile Router Bit is designed to replicate traditional shapes or create totally unique profiles. Cut dozens of classical profiles with this router bit by varying the cutter height, fence position and number of passes. If the profile requires multiple cuts be sure to plan your work carefully before you start to rout. One or two passes produce an incredible variety of shapes with this router bit.

Tips for Using Big Bits #1 Variable Speed

Large router bits are designed to work best at lower speeds (between 12,000 and 18,000 R.P.M). This allows the tips to cut the wood efficiently and without excesive chatter that will leave a rougher cut. It will depend some on the type of wood you're cutting (pine and oak will react differently), so it's a good idea to use a router with variable speed, such as the Triton 3-1/4 hp version shown above. Closely related to this is using your variable speed router in a good router table! This will provide stability during the cut and also allows the use of other items to keep things safe and provide a quality cut.

If you don't have a variable speed router and don't feel like spending to upgrade, consider using a router speed control. With this router speed control you can adjust router speed from full to zero without loosing torque. This extra control allows you to have less tear-out, stops burning and allows you to feed your stock at a comfortable rate (not for use with soft start motors).

Tips for Using Big Bits #2 Keep It Clean & Tight

Making sure that the large bit is properly fitted into the router will help you avoid any runout or even worse, wobble! Start by making sure the collet is clean. Any debris and wood chips left in the collect can keep the router bit from seating properly. 

Once you've got the collet clean, make sure that you don't "bottom out" the bit in the collet. If a bit is placed all the way to the bottom of the collet, as the collect tightens it may not properly grab the shank of the bit. This can allow the bit to shift during operation. Place the bit all the way in the collet, and then lift it 1/8" off the bottom and you get a great grip!

Tips for Using Big Bits #3 Hold Downs, Jigs & More

It's important (for safety and a quality cut) to keep the wood moving smoothly past the spinning bit. There are many items available to provide that support, and the mix that you choose will depend on your personal preferences. You may not need a power feeder (Mini Power Feeder MPF-001)  for the type of work you're doing, but for others it may be a valuable addition. 

To provide even the minimum support, a set (or more) of adjustable featherboards such as the Bow featherboard (100-360) shown above is a good selection. For superior support and guidance of your work the Jessem Router Table Stock Guides are a great upgrade. 

And when it comes to making coping cuts on the ends of stock, all the support and control you can add (such as a reliable and precise coping sled) will mean a superior finish and fit! 

Tips for Using Big Bits #4 Take It Slow!

When you're using large bits, remember that you're removing a lot of wood with that bit! It's much better for the quality of the cut, for your safety and for your router to take smaller cuts, increasing the depth of cut until you achieve your final depth. It's always easier to do it right once, than have to do it again because it was rushed!  

Don't be afraid of big bits! A great set can offer you great opportunities for creativity in your work and can actually be an affordable option to buying many specific-use bits. Just remember to follow the rules!