Router Bits
Router bits shape, cut and profile wood with accuracy and clean edges — essential for any woodworking or joinery job. Choose from straight cutters, profiling bits and flush trims to match your project’s demands.
What Are Router Bits Used For?
They’re mounted into a router or router table and rotated at high speed to trim, hollow or finish wood, plastic or laminate:
- Straight Bits – Clean out grooves, dados or channels in timber boards or ply.
- Flush Trim Bits – Match edges between materials, especially when working with templates.
- Roundover & Chamfer Bits – Add a clean edge profile for shelves, tables, or cabinetry.
- Decorative Bits – Create mouldings or ornate trim finishes on door panels and furniture.
Popular With:
- Joiners shaping bespoke wood profiles
- Cabinetmakers finishing units and panels
- DIYers rounding shelves or kitchen worktops
- Shopfitters and interior installers trimming laminate or ply
How to Choose the Right Router Bit
Match the bit to your job, tool, and finish requirements:
1. Shank Size
Most routers use ¼” or ½” shank bits. Always match the collet size of your router for safe operation.
2. Cutter Type
Select straight cutters for grooves, bearing-guided flush trims for laminate edges, and shaped profiles for visual details.
3. Material Compatibility
Tungsten carbide tips are ideal for hardwoods, MDF, laminate and even plastic. Use higher-end bits for long life and cleaner cuts.
Top Router Bit Brands
Built for clean cuts and long service life:
1. Trend
Industry leaders in professional-grade routing with a huge range of profiles and shank options.
2. Bosch & Makita
Trusted for their clean cutting edges and trade performance.
3. DeWalt & Festool
Precision-ground bits designed to work with plunge routers for exact results.
Router Bits FAQs
What’s the most common router bit size?
¼” and ½” shanks are most common. DIY routers often take ¼”, while pro routers typically use ½” for better stability.
Can I use router bits on laminate?
Yes — flush trim or roundover bits are ideal for laminate trimming. Use bearing-guided bits to follow template shapes.
Are all router bits compatible with any router?
No — always check shank size and maximum RPM rating. Some routers only accept certain sizes or bit diameters.
What material are router bits made of?
Most high-quality bits are tungsten carbide-tipped (TCT) for edge retention and wear resistance. Cheaper bits may be steel only.
Do router bits come in sets?
Yes — sets include a range of profiles or cutters for different projects. Great for beginners or trades building out a kit.