Router bits – practical advice for selection and use
Router bits – practical advice for selection and use
Router bits are indispensable when you need to make precise cutouts, grooves or profiles in wood. Whether you are working on furniture building, kitchen installation or fine carpentry, the right router bit can make a significant difference to the result. There are many types and sizes, and the choice depends on the material, the router and the desired finish.
In this article, you will get an overview of the most important factors to consider when choosing router bits, as well as an introduction to different types and manufacturers on the market.
The article presents a wide range of router bits that cover different needs – from hobby projects to professional use. The aim is to provide an informative overview of features, materials and areas of application, so you can more easily find the bit that suits your work. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide a clear basis for comparison.
Factors to consider when buying router bits
When choosing router bits, it is important to take into account both the material, the type of router and the desired precision. Here are some key considerations.
1. Material and coating
Router bits are typically made of carbide (HM) or high-speed steel (HSS). Carbide bits keep their edge longer and are suitable for harder woods and composite materials, while HSS bits are suitable for softer wood and plastic. Some bits have coatings that reduce heat build-up and increase lifespan.
2. Shank diameter and compatibility
Check that the shank diameter fits your router. The most common sizes are 6, 8 and 12 mm. A correct match ensures stability and precision during work.
3. Cutting angle and profile
The cutting angle affects how cleanly the bit cuts into the wood. A low angle gives smoother cuts, while a steeper angle removes material faster. The profile – e.g. round, V-shaped or groove cutter – determines what type of cut you can make.
4. Speed and cooling
Router bits must run at an appropriate speed to avoid overheating. Too high a speed can damage both the bit and the workpiece, while too low gives uneven cuts. For longer routing, breaks or coolant can extend the life of the bits.
5. Price and quality
The price varies depending on material, precision and brand. Cheaper bits may be fine for occasional use, while professionals should invest in quality bits that keep their edge longer and provide a more consistent result.
Products in focus
The CMT Router Table w/o Cabinet is a freestanding workbench developed for use with hand routers. The table provides a stable and safe work surface, focusing on precision and control.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing tasks.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, ensuring stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly while still being movable as needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of hand routers. The table can be used with router bits up to 98 mm in diameter, providing great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Fixed steel legs and solid MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible use: Fits most hand routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop provides ample space for routing tasks.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other hand routers
- Max. router bit diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and consistent edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, which is ideal for level routing of edges.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, providing a stable and controlled working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with sensitive materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise control and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise level routing of edges.
- Compatibility: Fits Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows for precise and safe work with wooden materials. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and large projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a workbench size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection port allows for the attachment of dust extraction for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free workbench.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Workbench of 610 × 810 mm provides ample space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction connection: Port with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Workbench width: 610 mm
- Workbench length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection port diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT Router Table with Cabinet is a professional workbench designed for clamping hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to warping and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which make it possible to adjust the fence precisely. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed from above without having to remove the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as a fixed and as a pivoting fence. It is quickly adjusted using a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks in hard plastic for extra support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and resistance to warping.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change router bits from above without removing the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as a fixed or pivoting fence with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router Table with Cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet
The Festool router bit box Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows for a wide range of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge routers and groove routers to moulding routers, chamfer routers and dovetail routers, making the set suitable for both finishing, joints and decorative profiles. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep track of the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with 8 mm collet.
- Carbide bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers both groove, edge and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router, dowel bit, groove routers, moulding routers, chamfer router, slot cutter and dovetail router
Product descriptions
The CMT Router Table w/o Cabinet is a freestanding workbench developed for use with hand routers. The table provides a stable and safe work surface, focusing on precision and control.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing tasks.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, ensuring stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly while still being movable as needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of hand routers. The table can be used with router bits up to 98 mm in diameter, providing great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Fixed steel legs and solid MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible use: Fits most hand routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop provides ample space for routing tasks.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other hand routers
- Max. router bit diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and consistent edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, which is ideal for level routing of edges.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, providing a stable and controlled working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with sensitive materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise control and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise level routing of edges.
- Compatibility: Fits Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows for precise and safe work with wooden materials. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and large projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a workbench size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection port allows for the attachment of dust extraction for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free workbench.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Workbench of 610 × 810 mm provides ample space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction connection: Port with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Workbench width: 610 mm
- Workbench length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection port diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT Router Table with Cabinet is a professional workbench designed for clamping hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to warping and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which make it possible to adjust the fence precisely. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed from above without having to remove the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as a fixed and as a pivoting fence. It is quickly adjusted using a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks in hard plastic for extra support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and resistance to warping.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change router bits from above without removing the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as a fixed or pivoting fence with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router Table with Cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet
The Festool router bit box Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows for a wide range of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge routers and groove routers to moulding routers, chamfer routers and dovetail routers, making the set suitable for both finishing, joints and decorative profiles. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep track of the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with 8 mm collet.
- Carbide bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers both groove, edge and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router, dowel bit, groove routers, moulding routers, chamfer router, slot cutter and dovetail router
Different types of router bits
There are many types of router bits, each designed for specific tasks and materials.
1. Groove cutters
Groove cutters are used to make grooves and slots in wood. They come in different widths and depths and are ideal for joints, for example when making drawers or shelves.
2. Edge cutters
Edge cutters are used to process edges and create decorative profiles. They can produce rounded, bevelled or shaped edges, depending on the profile you choose.
3. Template router bits
Template router bits have a guide ball or bearing that follows a template or edge. They are often used to copy shapes or route along a template, e.g. in furniture production.
4. V- and U-shaped bits
These bits are used to make decorative grooves or engravings. V-shaped bits give sharp lines, while U-shaped ones give a softer look.
5. Spiral cutters
Spiral cutters remove chips efficiently and provide clean cuts, especially in hardwood or MDF. They are available as up-cut and down-cut variants, depending on whether you want the chips away from or into the material.
Different brands of router bits
The market for router bits is broad, and several manufacturers specialise in different types and qualities.
Bosch
Bosch offers a wide range of router bits for both hobby and professional use. They are known for precision, durability and compatibility with many routers.
CMT
CMT is an Italian brand that produces high-quality carbide router bits. They are popular among professional craftsmen for their sharp edges and long lifespan.
Makita
Makita provides solid and affordable router bits that fit many of their own machines. They are a good choice for both DIY projects and lighter professional work.
Festool
Festool is known for top-class precision and quality. Their router bits are designed to deliver perfect results, especially in combination with their own routers.
Trend
Trend offers a wide range of router bits and accessories. They focus on innovation and user-friendliness and cater to both professionals and enthusiastic hobby users.
Frequently asked questions
What is a router bit used for?
A router bit is used to remove material and shape wood, e.g. by making grooves, edges or profiles. It can be used in handheld routers or stationary routing machines.
How do I know which router bit to choose?
The choice depends on the task you need to perform. If you need to make grooves, a groove cutter is best. If you need to process edges, you should choose an edge cutter. Also consider the material and the type of router.
How long does a router bit last?
The lifespan depends on material, use and maintenance. Carbide bits generally last longer than steel bits. Clean the bit after use and avoid overheating to extend its lifespan.
Can router bits be used for metal?
Most router bits for wood are not suitable for metal. However, there are special bits for aluminium and plastic. Always use bits designed for the material you are working with.
How do I maintain my router bits?
Clean the bits after use, remove resin and dust, and store them dry. Sharp bits give better results, so sharpen or replace them when they become dull.
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