23
Deep Cuts
The proper cutting depth for each pass is always determined by the material, the cutter-bit
size and type, and power of the motor.
Always make several progressively deeper cuts: start at one depth and then make several
passes, each time increasing the cutting depth, until your desired depth is reached.
Making a cut that is too deep will stress the router motor and the cutter bit, and it may burn the
workpiece and dull the cutter bit. It could also “grab” too much of the workpiece and cause you
to lose of control of the router, causing a serious accident.
To be certain that your depth settings are correct, always make test cuts in scrap material
similar to your workpiece before beginning the final cutting operation.
Remember, knowing the right depth for each cut comes with routing experience.
Edge Routing or Internal Routing
For ease of operation and to maintain proper control, your router has two handles, one on
each side of the router base. When operating the router, always hold it firmly with both hands
(Fig. 16 and 16a).
Edge Routing (Figs . 16a and 16b)
1. With the depth-of-cut set, place the router on the edge of workpiece, making sure that the
cutter does not contact the workpiece. With the plunge base, lock the plunge action in the
DOWN position, ready to cut.
2. Clamp an edge guide (board or metal straightedge) in place to help guide the router base.
3. Turn the router “On”, and allow the motor to reach the selected speed.
4. To begin your cut, gradually feed the cutter bit into the edge of the workpiece.
5. When the cut is complete, turn motor “Off” and allow cutter bit come to a complete stop
before removing it from the workpiece.
6. Unplug the router from the power source, and inspect the finished cut in the workpiece.
Fig. 16a
Fig. 16b
Edge Guide
WARNING
Always securely clamp your workpiece 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 possibly serious personal injury.
WARNING
Removing the cutter bit from the workpiece while it is still rotating could
damage the workpiece and result in loss of control, causing serious
personal injury.
