For woodworkers just getting started with routers, choosing the right router bits can be overwhelming. With so many different types and brands available, it’s hard to know where to begin. The good news is that beginners really only need a few basic bits to handle most common routing tasks.
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Straight Bits
A straight bit is essentially a cylinder with a cutting edge on the bottom. These are likely the most versatile and commonly used router bits. Straight bits are excellent for edge treatments like chamfers, rounding over edges, mortises, grooves, and dadoes. They come in different lengths, diameters, and cutting angles. Generally, a 1/2″ diameter straight bit with a 1/2″ cutting length and a 1/8″ radius roundover is a good all-purpose bit for beginners.
Best Straight Router Bits for Beginners
- Yonico 1/4″ and 1/2″ Straight Bits
- Freud 1/2″ Straight Bit
- Whiteside 1/2″ Straight Bit
- MLCS 1/4″ and 1/2″ Straight Bits
Roundover Bits
As the name implies, roundover bits cut a rounded edge on materials. They come in different radii sizes and can single- or double-edge roundovers. Single edge bits will put a round on one side of the stock, while double edge bits radius both sides at once. Roundovers soften sharp edges and provide a decorative look. Beginners will get the most use from a 1/2″ radius double edge roundover bit.
Best Roundover Bits for Beginners
- Freud 1/2″ Radius Roundover Bit
- Whiteside 1/2″ Radius Roundover Bit
- Yonico 1/2″ Radius Roundover Bit
- MLCS 1/2″ Radius Double Edge Roundover Bit
Chamfer Bits
Chamfer bits are a great way for beginners to ease edges. They cut a flat bevel rather than a roundover. Chamfering router bits will remove a 90-degree arris and replace it with a small angled cut. Common angles are 45 degrees and 30 degrees. Chamfer bits require a steady hand because the flat edges will show irregularities more than a roundover profile. A 45-degree chamfer bit is a good starter option.
Best Chamfer Bits for Beginners
- Freud 45-Degree Chamfer Bit
- Milescraft 45-Degree Chamfer Bit
- MLCS 45-Degree Chamfer Bit
- Yonico 45-Degree Chamfer Bit
Rabbet Bits
Rabbet bits cut rabbets, which are L-shaped grooves along the edge of the workpiece. They allow you to recess the backside of materials to create a lip. This allows you to glue boards together to make panels or attach a back to a bookcase carcase. Rabbet bits come in different widths. The most useful beginner size is a 1/2″ rabbeting bit.
Best Rabbet Bits for Beginners
- Freud 1/2″ Rabbet Bit
- Whiteside 1/2″ Rabbet Bit
- MLCS 1/2″ Rabbet Bit
- Yonico 1/2″ Rabbet Bit
Flush Trim Bits
Flush trim bits feature a pilot bearing guide that follows a template or edge surface. They are extremely useful for trimming laminate and veneer flush with the substrate. With the bearing riding along the veneered surface, the bit perfectly trims just the excess material without cutting into the substrate. A 1-1/2″ flush trim bit is generally the most versatile size for beginners.
Best Flush Trim Bits for Beginners
- Freud 1-1/2″ Flush Trim Bit with Bearing
- Whiteside 1-1/2″ Flush Trim Bit with Bearing
- MLCS 1-1/2″ Flush Trim Bit with Bearing
- Yonico 1-1/2″ Flush Trim Bit with Bearing
Ogee Bits
Ogee bits form an elegant S-shaped profile useful for decorative edges. They require angled handwork but add beauty to projects when done well. An excellent beginner ogee bit is a 1/2″ radius roundover bit with a smaller 1/4″ roundover. This creates a nice asymmetrical ogee profile.
Best Ogee Bits for Beginners
- Freud 1/2″ and 1/4″ Radius Ogee Bit
- MLCS 1/2″ and 1/4″ Radius Ogee Bit
- Yonico 1/2″ and 1/4″ Radius Ogee Bit
- Whiteside 1/2″ and 1/4″ Radius Ogee Bit
Dovetail Bits
Dovetail bits cut popular dovetail joints for joinery. They’re advanced bits that require a dovetail jig to guide the stock when cutting.Beginners should start with a 14-degree, 1/2″ dovetail bit to complement a standard Porter Cable-style dovetail jig.
Best Dovetail Bits for Beginners
- Freud 1/2″ 14-Degree Dovetail Bit
- MLCS 1/2″ 14-Degree Dovetail Bit
- Whiteside 1/2″ 14-Degree Dovetail Bit
- Yonico 1/2″ 14-Degree Dovetail Bit
Guide Bushings
Guide bushings aren’t router bits themselves, but they complement router bit use. These guide collars fit around the router bit and provide a bearing surface to follow templates and guides. Beginners should have a set of common template guide bushings to expand router bit capabilities.
Best Guide Bushings for Beginners
- Porter Cable Template Guide Set (common sizes included)
- Craftsman Template Guide Set (common sizes included)
- Bosch Template Guide Set (common sizes included)
- Ryobi Template Guide Set (common sizes included)
Router Bit Brands
In terms of brand, Freud, Whiteside, and Amana make professional quality router bits. However, they are priced at a premium. Beginners can start with more economical brands like MLCS, Yonico, and Bosch that perform well for occasional use.
Top Router Bit Brands for Beginners
| Brand | Quality | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Freud | Professional | Expensive |
| Whiteside | Professional | Expensive |
| Amana | Professional | Expensive |
| MLCS | Hobbyist | Budget-Friendly |
| Yonico | Hobbyist | Budget-Friendly |
| Bosch | Hobbyist | Mid-Range |
What Size Router Bits for Beginners
Router bits come in shank diameters of 1/4″ or 1/2″. 1/4″ shank bits are best suited for smaller, low-powered palm routers. Beginners with full-size routers should opt for 1/2″ shank bits, which are substantially more durable and minimize vibration. Always choose 1/2″ shank router bits when possible.
How Many Router Bits for Beginners
A beginner should start with around 5-10 of the most commonly used profiles. Building a collection of 15-20 versatile bits will allow you to handle most basic projects. The bits listed above like straight, roundover, chamfer, rabbeting, and dovetail provide a wide range of functions to begin with. You can add specialty bits later as needs arise.
Conclusion
Equipping your router with quality beginner bits makes routing easier and expands your capabilities. Brands like Freud, Whiteside, and MLCS offer excellent bits, while Yonico provides great value for hobbyists. Focus first on the most versatile profiles like straight, roundover, chamfer, and rabbet bits in 1/2″ shank size. Include key accessories like template guides to boost functionality. With these essentials, beginners can tackle all kinds of routing tasks successfully.