More Router Bits

[mattierocks]

I'll lead off by apologizing for being dense, but I've read through some old threads on router bits, but I'm still a bit confused...

So here is my request, if some of you experts would be kind enough to chime in:

Can you please post your essential router bits, with links directly to the exact bits you prefer? If it's only possible to link to a list with a bunch of bits on the page, please spell it out for me like you would a kid!

Thanks so much!

[freaktone]

I seem to use a lot of flush trim bits, round over bits, planer bits & solid carbide spiral bits etc...

Lots of great router bits / usage on the web also.

[nosmo]

I think you could get by building a Tele with just a 1/2"x1" top bearing flush trim bit. Make sure it has carbide cutters. http://www.homedepot.com/Tools-Hardw...&storeId=10051
It will take several passes to pattern rout the body with this bit, but that's OK.

If all your templates are 3/4" MDF, you can use this bit to rout the PU's, neck pocket & control hole also.

You could also use a 1/2"x1/2" top bearing flush trim bit for those routs.

If you want a round over, it just depends on the radius you want. 1/8", 1/4", etc.

If you have lots of money and a 1/2" collet router, it seems the most popular bit for routing the body is a 2" spiral upcut bit. http://www.amazon.com/RFT5200-CARBIDE-UP-CUT-SPIRAL-ROUTER/dp/B0012JI870/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1342882174&sr=8-13&keywords=spiral+upcut+router+bit

With all router operations, be very careful. Have respect for the tool. Let it do the work. Don't force it, take as little wood at a time as possible. Wear eye & ear protection. Have fun!

[J Lacey]

Im no pro and have only started my first build which is currently beyond all the wood working stages...........I had to have a top bearing flush cut bit that is 1/2" wide and 1" long for neck pocket, pick up, and control cavity routes. . I also used a 3/16 round over bit to round the edge of the body but most guys use a 1/8 round over. A channel bit is needed to route the groove for your truss rod according to the width of the truss rod. I wouldn't think you would require additional bits unless you ventured into veneers or pick guard making. Like I said, Im just learning myself, but needed these 3 bits to complete my build...........good luck with your build!


Jeff

[nosmo]

Good point about the truss rod slot - I forgot that one. A 1/4" spiral bit works pretty well.

[mattierocks]

Thanks for the input so far, Nosmo, J. Lacey and freaktone! I appreciate it.

[guitarbuilder]

Tele:
1/2" Pattern Routing bit for pickup,trem, control, and neck routs- Stew Mac pattern bit...
1/2" D by 1" long Flush Trim bit. Freud from Amazon.com
3/16 Radius round over bit for edge radius...Freud... Amazon.com

3/16" straight... truss rods. I use the stewmac hot rod bit.

Strat :
1/2" Radius for edges- Lowes or other home center.

Set neck cavity and also control rout on tele or strat- 1/2 "D x 1" pattern bit- Freud...Amazon.com

Humbucker rout- 1/4" straight bit. Usually available where router bits are sold.

You get what you pay for with router bits. Freud, CMT, and Whiteside last 2-3x as long as your cheapie ones and sometimes are only a few dollars more than home center prices online. If you get a router, get one with a 1/2" collet.

[jimdkc]

Whomever dies with the most router bits wins!

[andrewdoeshair]

I posted links to about every tool, bit, and template I use, on this thread...

http://www.tdpri.com/forum/tele-home...ar-custom.html

http://www.tdpri.com/forum/tele-home...ar-custom.html

[mattierocks]

Originally Posted by andrewdoeshair

I posted links to about every tool, bit, and template I use, on this thread...

http://www.tdpri.com/forum/tele-home...ar-custom.html

http://www.tdpri.com/forum/tele-home...ar-custom.html

That's excellent, I missed this thread. Thanks!

How do you like your drill press? I'm very close to getting that one as well...