Routers

What's On This Page:

  • General Router Info

  • How to Change Router Bit

  • What Are the Various Router Bits

  • How to Clean Router Bits

General Info:

  • Used to add curved edges, bevels, remove excess material

  • Always go RIGHT TO LEFT

  • DO NOT CUT YOURSELF

How to Change Router Bit

Open the silver latch and press the button. Pull the router down.
Place the smaller wrench around the silver neck of the router, and positioned towards the RIGHT side. Place the larger wrench around the screw-on collet at the top of the router positioned towards the LEFT side.
Squeeze the wrenches together to loosen the collet. Once the collet has been loosened, keep holding the small wrench, but twist the collet (counter-clockwise).
The collet will become tight again, and you will have to repeat steps 2 & 3.
The collet should now be loose enough to pull the bit out. Continue unscrewing the collet to take it off and clean it out.
Put collet back on, this time turning it clockwise. Insert bit, and hold the bit still with your finger as you tighten the collet. It should have about 1 finger width between the start of the blade and the collet.
Position small wrench to the LEFT side this time, and the big wrench around the collet to the RIGHT. Squeeze them together to tighten. Repeat until it is fully tightened.

Router Bits

(with heights and uses)

Chamfer Bit
Products: Trophy Shelves
Height: 0.51-0.53"
1/4" Roundover Bit
Products: Wine tray handles, charcuterie boards, harvest baskets
Height: 0.62-0.64"
Top Bearing Template Bit
Products: Barrel CandlesAnything that you need to remove flush
Height: Set so that the bearing rides SLIGHTLY above the base of the candle. The blade should cut off the entire base trim, but not touch the wood.
Slot Cutter
Product: Wine Stave Trays
Height:
Bottom Bearing Template Bit
Product: General De-tabbing. Set so that the bearing rides on bottom of product, and blade completely removes tab.

How to Clean Router Bits

If you notice that the bit isn't cutting as nicely, or looks very clogged and dirty, do this:

Take bit out of router.
Use rubbing alcohol and Q-Tip to clean all over the blade and shaft.
Dry the bit with a dry Q-Tip and paper towels.

Troubleshooting