Freehand Routing With The Fixed Base; Edging With A Pilot Bit - Craftsman 320.27683 Operator's Manual

FREEHAND ROUTING WITH THE FIXED BASE (Fig. 21)
_, WARNING: Do not use large cutter bits Fig. 21
for freehand routing. Using 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 router 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:
1. Draw or lay out the pattern on the workpiece.
2. Choose the appropriate bit.
3. Follow the instructions for INTERNAL ROUTING, and rout the pattern in two
or more 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.
NOTE: A core-box bit 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.
A_, WARNING: Always securely clamp your 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.
EDGING WITH A PILOT BIT (Figs. 22 and 22a)
The arbor-type bits with pilots are excellent
for edge shaping of any workpiece edge that
is either straight or curved at a curvature as
great or greater than the radius of the bit to be
used. The pilot prevents the bit from making
an excessively deep cut; and holding the pilot
firmly in contact with the workpiece edge
throughout prevents the cut from becoming
too shallow.
Fig. 22
Motor Housing
Pilot Fixed Base Work-
sub-base piece
TOP EDGE SHAPING
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