Two companies, CMT and Jesada Tools, have recently introduced sets of small, raised-panel router bits with matching stile-and-rail cutters. These sets are a real breakthrough for boxmakers and others who need to make small raised panels and appropriately scaled stiles and rails.

While both sets rely on the ogee for the basic shape of the cutters, the CMT set (part No. 800.518) has a more gradual, elongated ogee than the Jesada set (part No. 600-820), which has a tighter ogee with a pronounced fillet. The CMT panel-raiser also produces a wider shoulder and has a back cutter to allow the use of thicker stock.

I really appreciate the back cutter on the CMT raised-panel bit. It creates a panel that is flush on the inside of the stiles and rails of a frame, along with a nice reveal around the back side.

Jesada claims that its bits work with stock ranging in thickness from 3/8 in. to 3/4 in., while CMT says its bits work on thicknesses of 7/16 in. to 1-1/16 in. The CMT panel-raiser works on a panel that is as small as 2-3/4 in. square, while the Jesada works on a 2-in.-square panel.

Both sets did an admirable job. I did, however, have trouble with the Jesada to get the stile and rail to match up, I had to move the shims around and add an extra shim to the end profile cutter. A second set I looked at worked better. The CMT set produced parts that fit perfectly without any fussing with the bits.

Because all of these bits are used to cut mostly small workpieces on a router table, it’s important to pay special attention to safety. Before starting, I made several push sticks and hold-downs specifically for holding small panels and short stiles and rails. Also, to provide maximum support for small workpieces, I adjusted the opening in the router-table fence so that it would be as narrow as possible.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Fein Turbo II HEPA Wet/Dry Dust Extractor

Among the most powerful HEPA-rated shop vacs on the market, Fein’s Turbo II is quieter, more compact, and nimbler than the rest.

Buy at Amazon

Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer

This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Buy at Amazon

Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

Buy at Amazon