Best Wood Router Tools for Projects

The best wood routers can quickly create shapes on the edge of a board or make raised panels for doors or wainscotting.

There are two types of wood routers: fixed base and plunge base. A few models allow you to switch between the two.

Most plunge routers and fixed routers have a few basic things in common:

• Most types of router bits have either a 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch shank.
  Bits with larger shanks require more investment. However, the increased diameter provides more clamping surface and prevents bit slippage.
• The shank of the bit fits in a nonadjustable chuck of a router called a collet.
• Smaller routers often use a 1/4-inch collet. A smaller router with a 1/4-inch collet won't take a 1/2-inch bit.
• Most 1/2-inch collets are removable and can be replaced with a 1/4-inch collet.
• Larger, more powerful routers often have an interchangeable collet that can grip and accept both sizes.

Tip: Check the manufacturer specifications to see what size collet your router has.

What is a plunge router? This type of router tool travels up and down on spring-loaded rods. It lets you:

• Adjust the depth of cut without having to turn off the router.
• Set it to make cuts at a series of different depths.
• Make a controlled vertical movement during a cut.
• Easily make cuts, deep grooves and mortises.
• Do pattern and template work.

If you’re choosing between the two types of wood routers, the plunge router has an advantage. If you start a cut in the middle of a board, you can put the router over the starting point, turn it on and push the spinning bit into the wood.

What is a fixed base router? This type of wood router adjusts by sliding up and down in its base. To adjust the depth of cut on a fixed base router, you loosen a lock knob. Next, you can either turn the base or adjust the knob. A fixed base router is a good, all-purpose router. It is:

• Easy to adjust and works well for projects on site.
• Great for edge shaping because they are easy to maneuver.
• Easier to make fine changes with than a plunge router.

Choosing the best wood router for a project means considering its power, capacity and features. Most types of routers have an average speed of around 20,000 rpm. They range from one horsepower up to 3.5 horsepower for more powerful models.

A router's capacity is based on its collet, a band or collar that determines the size of bit the tool can take. Routers with 1/2-inch collets are more versatile than those with 1/4-inch collets. Some routers come with adapters that can accept 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch bits. If you work with larger bits, make sure your router is capable of working at slower speeds.

There are several standard or optional features that can make using your router tool easier and more efficient.

• A soft-start feature brings the router speed up gradually so the tool won’t jerk out of position.
• An electronic variable speed (EVS) control feature allows you to select the ideal speed for different applications and bit sizes.
• Constant speed sensors check how fast the bit is spinning. Some sensors even adjust the speed so you can cut through different types of wood easily.
• Wood router guides let you skillfully follow templates for dovetail joints, radius hinges and more.

Tip: If you're doing heavy-duty routing using a bit with a 1/4-inch shank, make shallow cuts. Feed the work slowly to avoid breaking the bit.

A router table mounts the tool upside down so its bit projects above the surface. Because the router table holds the router, it's a faster, hands-free way to get more control over woodworking tasks like edge profiling. There are several key considerations when buying a router table.

• Make sure it can hold your type of router or routers.
• When you push down on the top of the table it should stay flat. This means it won't bend or buckle under the weight of your router.
• Look for features such as a miter gauge slot, a tray that collects sawdust and a way to raise and lower the router.
• You'll need a fence to guide your cuts. It can be as simple as a board clamped to the edge of the table. Or you can choose to get a split-fence system that lets you to adjust each side individually.
• Set the router height at your waist to make it easier to use.

Tip: If you'll be handling longer lengths of wood, allow about 3 feet of clearance around your wood router.

Common types of router bits include flush trimming, chamfer, round over, rabbeting, dovetail and cove. Most woodworkers get these router tools as they need them. Below are some facts about choosing and using router bits:

• Carbide-tipped bits cut cleaner than high-speed steel ones. They also tend not to char the wood. Carbide-tipped bits also stay sharper longer, but can require a greater upfront investment.
• Bits designed to shape the edge of a piece of wood often have a bearing called a pilot. Guiding the pilot along the edge of the wood allows the router to cut more accurately.  Ball bearing pilots are far better than solid steel pilots. Solid steel pilots can mar the wood as you cut.
• Many bits don't have router guides. To guide cuts with these types of bits, use a fence or a template and guide bushing.
  
• When removing large amounts of material, make multiple passes. You'll make a cleaner cut and put less strain on the router and bit.
• The larger the bit diameter, the slower it should spin.
• Wood pitch and debris on the bit dulls the cutting edge and causes overheating. Clean bits with a mild household cleaner or soak it overnight in a sealed kerosene container. Remove the bearing first.
• A dull bit cuts poorly and can burn the wood's surface. It's best to replace it or have it professionally sharpened.

There are several types of routers and even more types of bits. Once you've chosen the best wood router for your project, you'll need to choose the right bits.

Straight Router Bits and Spiral Router Bits:

• Come in a variety of sizes
• Provide a smooth edge
• Straight bits are good for template routing
• Spiral bits are good for plunge-cutting

Joinery Router Bits:

• Routs a flat-bottom groove with sloping sides
• Includes dovetail bits, chamfer bits and rabbeting bits
• Most often used with a jig to cut dovetail joints in drawers

Slot Cutting Router Bits:

• Make a small slot in the woodwork
• Ideal for cutting trenches, grooves and panel slots in cabinetry

Flush Trim Router Bits:

• Available in downcut and upcut styles
• Trims laminates and veneers
• Great for clean template work

Edge Router Bits:

• Decorative bits include cove and ogee bits
• Routs a recess along the edge of the board
• Routs a radius on a piece of stock
• Ideal for windowsills, shelves and chair rails