Freehand Routing With The Fixed Base - Craftsman 320.17541 Operator's Manual

FREEHAND ROUTING WITH THE FIXED BASE (Fig. 13)
WARNING:
Do not use large cutter bits for freehand routing. Use of large
cutter bits when freehand routing could cause loss of control or create other
hazardous conditions that could result in personal injury. If using a muter table,
large bits should be used for edging only.
When used freehand, the router becomes
a flexible and versatile tool_ This flexibility
makes it possible to easily rout signs,
relief sculptures, etc.
When freehand routing:
1o Draw or layout the pattern on
the workpieceo
2o Choose the appropriate bit.
3. Rout the pattern in two or mere
passes. Do not exceed 1/8-in, depth
of cut in a single pass. This will
help provide better control as well as
serve as a guide on the next passes_
Fig. 13
NOTE: A core box or V-groove bit is often used for routing letters and engraving
objects. Straight bits and ball mills are often used to make relief carvings. Veining
bits are used to carve small, intricate details.
NOTE: Making a single deep cut is never advisable. Smaller diameter bits
are easily broken by too much side thrust and torque. Larger bits will cause
a rough cut and be difficult to guide and control For these reasons,
DO NOT EXCEED 1/8-iN. DEPTH OF CUT in a single pass.
_ 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 possible serious personal injury.
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