IWF Alert: Tiny router bits do delicate work for boxmakers
Aug 25, 2010
Delicate bits for delicate work. Profiles on standard router bits can be too large for small boxes, frames, and the like. These bits from Amana are just the right proportion.
It’s Day 1 at the 2010 International Woodworking Fair (IWF) and I’ve seen a ton of tools–not a bad thing for a tool junkie like me. As a boxmaker, I was intrigued by a new set of bits from Amana. They’re all bearing-guided, but look nothing like the bits we’re used to. Here’s why. The bearing on all of them is just 3/16 in. in diameter. That’s right: 3/16 in. That is small. And all of the profiles are in proportion to the bearing. So you’ve got a very small flush-trimming bit that can get into tiny corners (a real boon for pattern routing and laminate work), a roundover bit, an ogee, a chamfer bit, and a rabbeting bit. They’re just the right size for boxes. Standard bits have profiles that can be oversize for the delicate proportions of a box or small frame.
I know that tiny router bits might not appeal to everyone, but you have to admit that they are cool.
The bits are currently available and range in price from $25 to $36.
UPDATE: In all the hustle and bustle of IWF, I forgot to mention a very important fact. These bits have a 1/4 in. shank, so they’ll work just fine with a trim router or any other router that has a 1/4 in. collet.
Read about other great tool finds at IWF 2010
-
Delicate bits for delicate work. Profiles on standard router bits can be too large for small boxes, frames, and the like. These bits from Amana are just the right proportion.
-
That's not a giant finger. It's a very small flush-trim bit from Amana.
Comments
Are they 1/4" shaft or do they require a special collet for use?
Bill,
I can't believe I forgot to mention the shank size. It's 1/4 in., so no special collet adapter is needed.
In addition to woodworking, I am a model railroader and these small router bits from Amana could be very useful in milling wood shapes for my railroad.
I found another small router bit that is absolutely indispensable for making small boxes! Lee Valley & Veritas Tools make a set of BOX-SLOTTING bits perfect for creating the slots to receive the rabbeted edge of a box bottom. They slotting bits are extremely easy to use, and come with a thorough set of instructions.And yes, they use a 1/4" shank diameter.
Log in or create an account to post a comment.
Sign up Log in