Hi Gary
I’m about to invest in a dovetail bit, mostly for sliding dovetails. Is the length/diameter critical to performance or just relevant to a particular stock thickness? I noticed in your essential router bit article you recommended a 1/2 inch 10 degree bit does the 1/2 refer to shank size or length /diameter?
Thanks
John
Replies
Hi John,
You're absolutely right. The size of the bit is important only to the width of your stock. I use 1/2" bits a lot. This refers to the cutting diameter.
But, to be certain, I also have 3/8", 1/4", 5/8" diameter dovetail bits for different thicknesses. For most uses, a 1/2" bit will work fine. The 1/2" shank though will help prevent deflection or bit breakage. I recommend roughing out some of the waste first with a 1/4" straight bit or a table saw cut before cutting to full depth with the dovetail bit.
Good luck. Gary
Thanks for the reply, most bits I have been looking at(I live in New Zealand)come with a 12 degree rake, will this angle perform adequately on hard/soft woods? Again I noticed you recommended 10deg in the article.
Rgds
John
John,
The 12 degree rake will work just fine for most applications. Have fun. Gary
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