Shallow Template Bit for Router

Jun 24, 2009 11 Replies
J

I am very surpised that I can't seem to find this bit



I'm looking for a template bit for my router, where the bearing is on the router side of the cutter, and the cutter is less than 1/2" deep



I have a pattern cut into 3/4" MDF, and I want to copy that pattern onto a piece of plywood -- the only thing is, I don't want to cut all the way through the plywood -- just 1/4" down, so I can insert some wood for an inlay. Regular flush-cut bits are simply to deep to do this. (also, I want an exact copy of the pattern -- not something that is 1/4" smaller than the pattern, etc). I would not have pictured this as being that exotic a practice, so I'm perplexed as to why I can't find this bit anywhere



Has anyone seen anything like this?


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L

Use existing pattern to make a duplicate from 3/4" MDF, then use the new 3/4" MDF pattern with a standard 1" long pattern bit to copy 1/4" deep cut in plywood..

Lew

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C

Do a search for dado clean out bit.

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W

I think one of these might do:

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U

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?c=1&p=51851&cat=1,46168,46171&ap=1

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S

Wow! Good find.

I was going to suggest just using a bushing setup and over or undersizing the pattern depending if it is an inside or outside pattern. Seems bushings have fallen somewhat out of common use no?

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C

Take a 1/2" diameter 1/2" depth hinge mortising bit

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add a 1/2" bearing

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lock ring:

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A

Another option would be to add a spacer under your MDF pattern to raise it up so you can use your existing bit. Art

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T

I have such an animal, for exactly that purpose - it's either an Amana or a Whiteside bit, and I can't remember right now which one, but I'm pretty sure it's Amana. The bit depth is 1/4", I think. You ought to be able to find it on their web site - I did.

Tom Dacon

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T

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1/4" shank sizes, the cutting length is a short as 1/8". Perhaps one of those would work for you.

Tom Veatch Wichita, KS USA

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J

Thanks for all the responses. I was looking for this bit because bushings require a special template, and raising the pattern is a pain, and error prone in my experience. The bits suggested by Tom and Woody (there's a joke in there somewhere...) are exactly what I'm looking for. Thanks again.

John

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