Choosing Cutters For Your Router

The challenge is that every router is different. They hold different size copy rings, cutters and plunge to different depths. We're working to make the process easier for you if you haven't got the complete router setup.

The Lockcarpentry Shop sells specialist cutters which you can purchase here.

In Australia and New Zealand most routers come standard with collets that hold cutters with the following shank sizes: 1/4 inch 6.35mm and 1/2 inch 12.7mm. 

Australian routers don't allow you to use cutters with 8mm and 12mm shanks, unless you buy the collet sleeves or reducers. Most specialist tool stores will sell these. We stock the Makita 12mm collets.

 

12 x 70 x 6.35 router bit

It has a plunge tip which is perfect for trimmers with the plunge base.

Suited for:

  • Cutting timber only
  • Butt hinges
  • Face plates
  • Flush pulls
  • Other shallow cut-outs

 

It has a stronger shank and plunge tip which is perfect for trimmers with the plunge base.

Suited for:

  • Cutting timber only
  • But hinges
  • Face plates
  • Flush pulls
  • Other shallow cut-outs 

 

Trend router bit 12 x 115 x 12.7

Trend cutter 12 x 63 x 115 x 12.7mm

It has a plunge tip and is perfect for large plunge routers.

Suited for:

  • Cutting timber only
  • Butt hinges
  • Concealed hinges
  • Face plates
  • Flush pulls
  • Flush bolts
  • Other mid depth cut-outs

 

 

These 13mm wide cutters are found at Sydney Tools and can be used with the Festool 17mm copy rings.

Suited for:

  • Cutting timber
  • Butt hinges
  • Face plates
  • Flush pulls
  • Other shallow cut-outs.

 

13 x 80 x 8 router bit

Doorprofi cutter 13 x 80 x 8mm

Festool routers hold a 17mm copy ring so we stock 13 x 80 x 8mm shank plunge cutters to allow for this. Therefore to get set up you would need to buy a Festool an 8mm collet and a Festool 17mm copy ring. This gives you the 4mm difference needed to use the templates.

Suited for:

  • Cutting timber and aluminum
  • Butt hinges
  • Face plates
  • Flush pulls
  • Other shallow cut-outs.

 

This gives a rougher cut for pocket mortising. Not recommended for visible cut-outs. The Maximum plunge depth can be up to 80mm depending on the router.

Suited for:

  • Cutting timber and aluminum
  • Smaller lock bodies
  • Smaller pivot mechanisms

The Doorprofi Compensator is recommend for using this long cutter. Otherwise a smaller router is needed to cut out the first depth.

 

Long reach router bit 16 x 161 x 12

This gives a rougher cut for pocket mortising. Not recommended for visible cut-outs. The Maximum plunge depth can be up to 103mm depending on the router.

Suited for:

  • Cutting timber and aluminum
  • Larger lock bodies
  • Large pivot mechanisms

The Doorprofi Compensator is recommend for using this long cutter. Otherwise a smaller router is needed to cut out the first depth.