Straight router bits come in three varieties: Spiral-upcut, spiral-downcut and straight-cut bits. The choice of which to use comes down to the specific job and your preferences.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Straight or Spiral
Straight router bits come in three varieties: Spiral-upcut, spiral-downcut and straight-cut bits. The choice of which to use comes down to the specific job and your preferences.
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2 comments:
From this article, it appears to be that spiral bits are the way to go. I hope that one day a company can engineer a way in which straight bits are more workable and versatile in general routing. I have noticed in using spiral bits, as the author points out, it is harder to remove the debris in the routing than with straight bits. I am a little confused with his article because he seems to swear by spiral, but then goes back and says that they aren't good at all and are not necessary in everyday tool kits. But I believe the greater selection you have to work with, the better.
We typically stock at least one of each type in our shop, but I’ve primarily used straight cut bits if I’m not mistaken. The writer is correct in stating that each type of cutter has its place, but that you can typically get away with a more general workhorse like straight cutter. It depends on how critical the cut is, do you really care about tear out or not? Not too long ago there was an another article posted here on the Green Page, “The Skinny on End Mills” that breaks down the difference between cutters a little further. (http://makezine.com/magazine/make-40/endmills/) I find that the images are kinda helpful. What’s important to know is that there are a number of other factors to take into account when selecting the appropriate bit, diameter, cutting speeds, the material you’re cutting, and flute design/number. Each of these things has a different impact on your final product and it’s up to you decide when and what matters, and to do your research. Don’t just pick any old cutter off the shelf and throw it in the router…
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