Replies

1. 
   gulfstar | Jul 14, 2022 04:32pm | #1

   The larger the better.

2. 
   user-210490 | Jul 14, 2022 04:57pm | #2

   This is not a very deep rabbit. I would use a bit that is 1/2 inch in cutting height. You probably have various rub collars to set the width of cut.

1. 
   tenderfootbob | Jul 14, 2022 05:42pm | #3

   Thank you for your input. Would you suggest a speed that would be best?7

   tenderfoot bob

1. 
   user-210490 | Jul 14, 2022 08:03pm | #4

   If this nightstand is already assembled then you need to balance the router on the edge of the cabinet sides so attach an extra ledger strip for support. I don't know what router you are using but a moderate speed is fine.

3. 
   geedubbee | Jul 15, 2022 06:39pm | #5

   Your project aside I will side with Gulfstar. Basically you want to use the largest diameter bit you can for a given job. A large diameter bit with multiple passes will give you a cleaner result that a smaller diameter bit with a single pass.

4. 
   jharveyb | Jul 16, 2022 10:04am | #6

   What matters here is the direction the router bit edge is exiting the wood. The more the direction is out from the edge (like a 1/2" bit making a 1/4" rabbet, where the direction is perpendicular to the edge) and less along the edge (where it is making a 1/32" rabbet, where the direction is almost in the direction of the edge) the more tear-out you will have at the edge, where in this case it will show. Use the largest diameter bit you have, start with a very shallow cut (no more than 1/16") to define the sharp edge, and proceed with multiple cuts from there. Heavy cuts always risk the work.

   For any router bit up to 1" in diameter, I always use the fastest speed on my router. The slower speeds are to make the really large diameter bits safer (such as raised panel bits.) Or to reduce burning.

   The safest way to guarantee that the router doesn't tip on the edge is to attach a long base that will always span the distance across the night-stand (and top to bottom) so it is always supported on both sides.