Router bits are cutting tools used with a router to shape, hollow out, or profile wood, plastic, and other materials. They come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific woodworking tasks, such as edge forming, grooving, trimming, and joint-making.

Router bits typically consist of a shank and a cutting edge. The shank is the cylindrical part that fits into the router’s collet, while the cutting edge performs the shaping or cutting operation. Router bits are available in two primary shank sizes: 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch, with the latter providing more stability and durability.

What is router bit?

• Straight Bits: Used for making straight cuts into the material, such as grooves, dadoes, and mortises.
• Flush Trim Bits: Feature a bearing that rides along a template to trim material flush with the guide.
• Chamfer Bits: Create beveled edges for decorative or joining purposes.
• Round-Over Bits: Used to create rounded edges on workpieces.
• Cove Bits: Produce a concave, rounded profile on the edge of a workpiece.
• Rabbeting Bits: Used to cut a shoulder along the edge of a material, commonly for joinery.
• Dovetail Bits: Designed for creating dovetail joints, commonly used in cabinetry.
• Ogee Bits: Create S-shaped decorative edges.
• Router bits can be made of high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide-tipped. Carbide-tipped bits are more durable and maintain their sharpness longer, making them ideal for frequent or professional use.

Router bits are essential tools in woodworking, offering precision and versatility for creating various designs and functional joints in wood and composite materials.