A router saw is a versatile power tool that lets you create rounded edges on wood. It can also cut flawless dadoes and rabbets, which are step-shaped recesses for fitting a piece of wood into another.
To use a router saw, start by setting up your workbench. Make sure it’s level and well-dished.
Variable speed
A router saw is a power tool that lets you cut rabbets, engrave letters and trim around doors and windows with the flick of a switch. The machine also boasts several other handy features that will help you get the job done in record time, such as a variable speed motor and dust collection capabilities. It’s no secret that woodworking projects take up a significant amount of your time and resources, so having the right tools at your disposal is a must. For starters, you need a good quality wood router, a sturdy and well-maintained router table, and the correct sized router bits. Lastly, you should consider the type of wood you plan to work with and choose a blade and bit set that’s optimized for your specific task. Luckily, many manufacturers offer custom router sets that will fit the bill perfectly. Whether you’re a professional or a weekend warrior, you’ll never regret getting the right tools for your project.
Safety guard
A safety guard is important for the protection of your hands and fingers when using a router saw. The guard comes with most router saws and protects your hand from a kickback that could hit your fingers.
The guard is simple in design, but effective in protecting your fingers from spinning bits. It mounts directly to the router table fence with standard 1/4″ x 20 hex head bolts and can adjust up or down for the height of your router bit.
It is made of transparent acrylic to let you see your work piece clearly while cutting. It also locks on your router table fence to keep your fingers away from the bit.
The new INCRA PushGuard combines an oversized push block with both an integrated Hand Guard and a removable clear debris shield, giving you triple the safety features of conventional push blocks when using a router table, jointer or other woodworking machine. The Hand Guard portion always sits between your hand and cutter, offering even greater protection for situations where a traditional guard cannot be attached to your fence.
Clamps
A router saw can be used for a wide variety of applications and requires the use of clamps to hold your workpiece in place. Depending on your needs, you can choose from several different types of clamps.
PRO-GRIP Straight Edge Clamps are lightweight, yet more rigid than other similar clamps on the market. The extruded aluminum construction allows you to clamp any piece of material firmly without fear of breaking or losing control.
These clamps can be used as a fence on a bandsaw, drill press or auxiliary fence on a router table or table saw. They are also designed to help prevent kickback during routing and surfacing.
The Adjustable Guide Combo Pack fits in the track of your PRO-Grip Wide Body Straight Edge Clamp or any Pro-Grip Straight Edge Clamp and secures with two knobs. It helps achieve a true 90deg cut and can be adjusted to angle or tapers on both large and small sheets of stock.
Bits
When you purchase a router saw, it comes with a variety of bits for different purposes. The bit types you can choose from range from straight bits for grooving and veining to profile bits for decorative moldings.
Choosing the right bits can make all the difference in a woodworking project. Whether you’re building a cabinet or a furniture piece, getting a smooth, precise cut is crucial.
The right bit can also help you create a professional finish. Some bits are made of high-speed steel while others have carbide tips.
Carbide tips are harder and hold an edge longer than HSS, but they’re more brittle. Therefore, they’re best handled and stored carefully.
Straight bits are often used to cut a groove, dado, or to hollow out a cut for a mortise or inlay. They are available in a variety of diameters and lengths.