Oversized (17/32") Router Bit Bearings

[Jay Pique]

I've been doing a bit of template routing and realize the importance of precisely roughing out the blank on the bandsaw. (jumbo shrimp anyone?) What I'd like to do is set up two router tables with flush trimming bits. For the first pass I'd use a standard 1/2" bit, but with a bearing that's slightly oversized - say 17/32" - to leave the blank just slightly proud of the template. I'd then take a final pass on the other table with a 1/2" bit coupled with a 1/2" bearing. Hopefully this would leave a very clean edge that would require only minimal sanding.

I've googled a bit, but no luck so far. Thanks.

JP

[sweetsawdust]

Since your talking Jumbo shrimp and I am just filling an order to go from Ky to the gulf, I'll share my experience. I have tried what you are discussing with the router bits and found that the band saw still is better and faster then the router for the roughing out of the object. The finish cut with the router does not seem to improve any whether you use the router to cut the pattern out or the band saw to cut it out. Making the item a little proud of the pattern and then recutting to size seemed to me to be just and extra step that gave not extra benefit. On a lot of my work I go from band saw to sander and skip the router all together. Please excuse typo I am getting ready for a 2nd day at a craft show and have had little sleep for the past

[dadiOH]

Good luck but I kinda think you aren't going to have any luck. A

5/8-1/2 template guide would get you down close but not as close as you want. You'd do better using a 1/2 bearing and a 1/2 bit ground down as you wish. Here's a link to lots of bearings...

[pat]

Your concept is something I live x. A finish cut is key to near perfect cuttings but not with 1/2 cutters. They're flimsy as hell, deflect and wear out fast, especially the long ones. Look for bigger cutters and bearings. I would also select the finish cut bearing /cutter diameter yield @ ~1/32. Very light cuts will produce more chatter.

A 17/32 bearing OD is possible (not a standard off the shelf item) , machinists can sleeve a standard R-4 to any practical diameter.

(Routers)

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Jay Pique wrote:

[Tim Taylor]

How cool is that, I'm leaving Ky. Friday morning heading to the Gulf also.

[sweetsawdust]