Rebaters
Rebaters are router bits designed to cut accurate recesses and stepped grooves — ideal for housing joints, door casings, backs of panels and frame work. They deliver precise width and depth for strong, clean fits.
What Are Rebaters Used For?
These bits remove a set width and depth from the edge or face of timber, most commonly for jointing and structural applications:
- Rebating Frames – Create recesses for glass, panels or doors in frame builds.
- Back Panels – Rout rear-edge rebates to seat backing boards flush in cabinets or carcasses.
- Joinery – Form shoulder joints or shelf housings with consistent fit and depth.
- Edge Reduction – Reduce the thickness of part of a workpiece while leaving the rest intact.
Popular With:
- Cabinet and frame makers
- Joiners preparing door linings or rebates for seals
- Fitters seating panels or boards
- DIYers assembling furniture or storage
Choosing the Right Rebating Router Bit
Match the rebate width, cutting depth, and bearing size to your task:
1. Cut Width
Bits come with different diameter cutters or bearing sets to vary rebate width. Check your joinery spec.
2. Cut Depth
Select a cutter with enough height to match the desired rebate depth in a single or multiple passes.
3. Bearing Guided or Not
Bearing-guided rebater bits track against timber edges. Unguided versions need a straightedge or fence.
Rebater FAQs
What does a rebater router bit do?
It cuts a stepped recess along a timber edge or face — commonly for fitting glass, panels, or forming joints.
Can I adjust the width of the rebate?
Yes — many rebater sets include interchangeable bearings to vary cut width without swapping bits.
Are these suitable for MDF?
Absolutely. TCT rebater cutters are built for MDF, ply, hardwood and veneered boards with excellent chip clearance.
What size rebate should I cut?
Match to your panel thickness or seal. Common widths include 10mm, 12mm, 15mm and 20mm for back panels and joints.
Do I need a router table?
No — handheld routers work well with bearing-guided bits. For longer lengths or repeat cuts, a table setup adds consistency.




