1st time routing advice please

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AlanC40

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Hi There,

Im hoping for some advice with regards to router and a slot cutter

I need to use a 2mm slot cutter to cut a slot for T moulding. So far so good

However, thus us my first step into routing and I'm more then happy to have a crack but I'm confused by all the different terms (arbour,bearings);so I don't know what to purchase

I need to buy a router and the 2mm slot cutter. But do I need anything else? Do cutter fit routers commonly like drill bits etc? I can't justify to the Mrs a mega purchase of v expensivekit but any advice on entry beginner level would be great

Really appriciate any help or link's you can give this newbie

Ta
 
AlanC40 said:
Do cutter fit routers commonly like drill bits etc?
Click to expand...

There are two different sizes of cutter shaft (shank), which have to match your router - 1/4 or 1/2 inch. (In the UK. The metric world has other sizes.)
The larger shaft is obviously stronger and can cut deeper/faster, but the routers with the smaller shaft are lighter and quieter.
That's the only variable; you can fit cutters of any make to routers of any make.

I need to use a 2mm slot cutter to cut a slot for T moulding.
Click to expand...

Is this along the (straight?) edge of something, or across the face?

Pics for an edge:
https://www.deckwise.com/router-bit-edge-slot-cutter.html
 
Hi Endecotp

Thanks so much for the quick reply and you explanation and links has helped me massively

endecotp said:
There are two different sizes of cutter shaft (shank), which have to match your router - 1/4 or 1/2 inch
Click to expand...

So I'm looking at 1/4 router , so this bit would be a fit?

https://www.wealdentool.com/acatalog/Online_Catalogue_Knock_On_Edging_Groover_913.html

endecotp said:
Is this along the (straight?) edge of something, or across the face?
Click to expand...

Yes definitely along the edges and that how to guide is v helpful

Many thanks mate. I think I know know what I gotta get and get practicing!
 
I would go with 1/2" router , had a 1/4" model but struggled with many jobs and if you ever do any kitchen worktops the 1/2" is essential.
They take both 1/4 and 1/2 collects.
 
1/4 will be fine for cutting these slots, but it's true that a more powerful router has more uses.
 
wgt52 said:
Whilst it's true you can (eventually) do more with a 1/2" router such take more strenght to use. As your are a begineer buy a 1/4" one and learn how to safely use it.
Click to expand...

Thanks Wgt52, I'm definitely getting started and Im looking to learn.

One thing I've noticed is that these 2mm slot cutters are quite expensive.

Does any one know of some good sites that stock it. Don't want the cheapest part but not sure if I'm paying over the odds
 
wgt52 said:
Whilst it's true you can (eventually) do more with a 1/2" router such take more strenght to use. As your are a beginer buy a 1/4" one and learn how to safely use it.
Click to expand...
Plus one on this! I've gone from a 1/4" to 1/2" and to be honest am thinking of getting another 1/4" or a fixed base for smaller jobs - the 1/2" is a beast that'll power through jobs but is unwieldy for finer work!
 
Another point to bear in mind is that routers with a flick type switch can usually be mounted to a router table which can make things easier/safer, routers with (dual) triggers that have to be kept pressed in can't (unless the manufacturer specifies and provides instructions etc).
 
AlanC40 said:
One thing I've noticed is that these 2mm slot cutters are quite expensive.

Does any one know of some good sites that stock it. Don't want the cheapest part but not sure if I'm paying over the odds
Click to expand...
If you buy from Wealden you won't be "paying over the odds". The type of cutter you are looking at is fairly specialised which means that there are a limited number of manufacturers/brands out there - you simply aren't going to find a good quality durable cutter of the type you require for under a fiver. Wealden is generally regarded as mid-market, so decent quality at reasonable prices and very good service to boot. A lot of their stuff is manufactured in Italy as well. If you want to see what trade types pay for router cutters, search for Trend Industrial/Professional, Titman, CMT and Freud. The prices may well frighten you.

Chud said:
Another point to bear in mind is that routers with a flick type switch can usually be mounted to a router table which can make things easier/safer...
Click to expand...
Not for this application or many others in my experience. Counter tops, etc are good examples of where a plunge router taken to the workpiece is a far safer approach - router tables tend to be limited in size and that in turn limits the sizes of the materials they can safely support. They are also completelyt useless for some tasks such as mortising, etc. So horses for courses, I'd say
 
JobAndKnock said:
If you buy from Wealden you won't be "paying over the odds". The type of cutter you are looking at is fairly specialised which means that there are a limited number of manufacturers/brands out there - you simply aren't going to find a good quality durable cutter of the type you require for under a fiver. Wealden is generally regarded as mid-market, so decent quality at reasonable prices and very good service to boot. A lot of their stuff is manufactured in Italy as well. If you want to see what trade types pay for router cutters, search for Trend Industrial/Professional, Titman, CMT and Freud. The prices may well frighten you.
Click to expand...

Hi JobandKnock,

Thank you for this, it's helpful to know the ranges and as newbie that I'm not plunging in at the to end of the market

I'll check out those other lines out of morbid curiosity! And no doubt feel my wallet leap out of my pocket and run for the hills!
 
JobAndKnock said:
Not for this application or many others in my experience. Counter tops, etc are good examples of where a plunge router taken to the workpiece is a far safer approach - router tables tend to be limited in size and that in turn limits the sizes of the materials they can safely support. They are also completelyt useless for some tasks such as mortising, etc. So horses for courses, I'd say
Click to expand...
Yeah - that's why I said 'can' make things safer ;-)

It would primarily depend on the cutter being used - I know the finger joint cutters should only be used on a table.

My point was if you get a router with a rocker type switch you have the option to table mount it, if you get one with a 2 stage trigger you don't (unless the manufacturer provides instructions etc).
 
JobAndKnock said:
If you want to see what trade types pay for router cutters, search for Trend Industrial/Professional, Titman, CMT and Freud. The prices may well frighten you.
Click to expand...

So I Googled ...holy mother of!!! Be still my beating wallet! Wealdon here I come!
 
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