28
Direction of Feed- Internal Cuts (Figs . 23a and 23b)
When making an internal cut, such as a groove, dado, or slot, always have the guide you are
using with the router (edge guide, straight edge, or board guide) on the right-hand side of the
router as you make the cut (Fig.23a).
When the guide is positioned on the right hand side of the router, the router travel should be
from left to right and “counterclockwise” around curves (see Fig. 23a).
This counterclockwise action around the curve could cause “Climb cutting”. Always be alert
and exercise extreme caution to maintain control of the router when making this type of cut
around curves.
When the guide is positioned as shown in Fig. 23b, the router travel should be from left to right
and clockwise around curves.
If there is a choice, the set-up in Fig. 23a is easier to use, but there is the possibility of “Climb
Cutting” around curves. In either case, Fig. 23a or Fig. 23b, the sideways thrust of the router
cutting is always against the guide, as is proper.
Fig. 23a
Bit Rotation
Bit Rotation
Router Feed
Direction
Guide
GUIDE OUTSIDE
Thrust
Fig. 23b
Bit Rotation
Bit Rotation
Router Feed Direction
Guide
GUIDE INSIDE
Thrust
WARNING
Always securely clamp the workpiece in place, and keep a firm grip on the
router base with both hands at all times. Failure to do so could result in
loss of control causing possible serious personal injury.
Rate of Feed (Figs . 24a and 24b)
The proper rate of feed depends on several factors: the hardness and moisture content of the
workpiece, the depth of cut, and the cutting diameter of the bit. When cutting shallow grooves
in soft woods such as pine, you may use a faster rate of feed. When making deep cuts in
hardwoods such as oak, you should use a slower rate of feed.
Fig. 24a
Cut
TOO FAST
Bit Shank
Cutter
Fig. 24b
Cut
TOO SLOW
Bit Shank
Cutter
