Replies

1. 
   john_c2 | Jul 17, 2023 05:28am | #1

   Fastest speed, several passes, sharp bit.

1. 
   tenderfootbob | Jul 17, 2023 01:00pm | #3

   Thank you!

   tenderfoot bob

2. 
   ysu65 | Jul 17, 2023 07:12am | #2

   As John suggested and sometime a light climb cut trim depending on grain direction. If all fails, use sandpaper.

3. 
   bburgboy | Jul 18, 2023 07:26pm | #4

   I beg to differ but slowing the speed, not increasing, will often help prevent router burn, particularly on woods prone to burning like cherry or maple. I also like to make the first cut at just a fraction lower than the final. After making the cut, raise (or lower if not on a table) the bit just a few thousands...no more than 1/64 inch and make the final pass. The bit is barely kissing the surface and should clean it up nicely.

1. 
   tenderfootbob | Jul 21, 2023 12:24pm | #9

   Thank you! I tried using the fastest speed, as suggested by john_c2, but still got burns. I will try your slow speed approach.

4. 
   ral3wood | Jul 18, 2023 11:14pm | #5

   I use cherry a LOT and it definitely is easy to burn with router bits. I think the speed matters a bit, but in my hands what helps the most is two things:

   1 - multiple passes and sneak up on the final one - set your depth using scrap material and then make your second to last pass so that your final pass will remove a TINY amount. I would suggest pretty much as little as you can so that step two is easier.

   2- On that final pass, keep the router moving! If you slow down/stop AT ALL it will burn - especially in corners. Practice on offcuts/scraps.

   Finally - use a sharp bit (don't push the life of router bits!)and expect you may still need a little sanding here or there!

   Good luck!

5. 
   elmaduro | Jul 19, 2023 01:38am | #6

   Agree with all .. the final pass should be light and fast.

6. 
   sparkyII | Jul 19, 2023 11:02pm | #7

   I just recently cut some round finger holes for drawer pulls and found that by turning the speed down and moving quick that this reduces the burn marks. I also had to fold several layers of 80 grit to sand the remaining burn marks to remove them. I have not tried the final pass with a light pass but that is a good suggestion.

7. 
   pantalones868 | Jul 20, 2023 06:18pm | #8

   Back in the day routers had only two speeds on and off. On was fast and off was very slow. Somehow it all got done. I recently purchased my first 21st century router. I have maybe a dozen routers so never felt the need to buy another but I bought one anyway. I love the soft start but for most things I tend to go fast and move fast. Burns come from heat ,sharp bits and not dwelling in one place reduces that. Yes, cherry does tend to burn so the multiple passes suggestion is a good plan.