how much material can safely and properly be removed with a single router pass

For instance if you are routing for a pick up or cutting a dado how deep is the depth of cut for a 1/2 or 1/4 straight cut bit on each pass?:confused:

If it matters I am working on a neck jig and need to cut a dado. The router is table mounted 2 1/2 HP PC.

Thanks all

Koolaide

Usually 3/16 but sometimes 1/4 and sometimes 1/8.

Depends on how comfortable I am with the setup, how sharp the bit is, how dense the wood is, if I'm plunging or not, etc.

Also, feed rate is directly related to how deep you can go in a pass.

As much as you think you could get away with safely and cleanly, multiplied by how much of a rush you are in, divided by how many fingers you have left :mrgreen:.