A new slot-cutting router bit from Amana, called the E-Z Dial, makes it easy to adjust the width of a slot cut. Changing the width is just a matter of turning a built-in dial and then tightening a locking nut. It would be especially useful for those who struggle to get a snug fit when using plywood that’s less than full thickness.

The carbide-tipped bit is available in two size ranges: 1/8 in. to 1/4 in. thick and 1/4 in. to 1/2 in. thick. Turning the dial lets you adjust the slot to any size between the upper and lower ranges. Both bits cut a 1/2-in.-deep slot, although a shallower depth can be had simply by repositioning the router-table fence.

With a 1/8-in. to 1/4-in. bit set up in a router table, I made several full-depth cuts in some hard-maple stock. The cuts were made on both edge and end grain at several widths, with adjustments made between each cut. The cuts looked smooth, with no noticeable chipout or tearing of the wood. Dialing in a wider or narrower cut required little fussing.

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