When you’re routing a workpiece, you need a fence to direct the router bit and ensure accurate results. The router fence is also an essential safety accessory.
A router fence is a utility product that is put to use by woodworkers worldwide for various applications. It is a crucial tool for setting stock pieces, controlling the performance of router bits and for many other woodworking operations.
Adjustability
If you use your router table for a variety of routing tasks, you need a fence that can handle it. A router table fence should be easy to adjust and lock perpendicular to the tabletop for maximum precision.
The best fences have a simple adjustment system that uses a threaded rod that pivots on one end and connects to a post on the fence and another post that is attached to the router table. Nylon lock nuts and washers on each side of the posts prevent the threaded rod from binding as it moves in and out.
Some fences feature micro-adjustment to 0.001 inches for greater accuracy and safety. Higher-end fences also include setup blocks that eliminate much of the guesswork when setting up a router table for a piece of wood.
Accuracy
The accuracy of your router fence is crucial to the safety and function of your machine. A properly positioned router bit can make all the difference between a smooth finish and disaster. The Precision Router Table Fence by Kreg features a micro-adjust wheel to get you in the right position and a low profile aluminum design that folds out of the way when not in use. This 36″ T-square style router fence is built for the pro and can accommodate any router top from 3/4″ up to 1-1/2″. Its independently sliding fence faces offer zero-clearance support.
The big picture: Accurate and easy to set up, the Precision Router Table Fence by Kreg can be used with a variety of tools and is compatible with most popular woodworking jigs, accessories, and router bits. The best part is, the fence will last for years to come, making it an investment worthy of your hard-earned money. The best part is, it can be re-purposed into a jointer with the included two jointing rods.
Safety
The router fence serves as a safe barrier for workpieces to pass between the bit and a rotating table, preventing injuries from occurring. It also reduces the likelihood of splintering and tearout during a cut.
A router bit with a bearing may be operated without a fence, but it is safer to use one. When you feed stock to the rotating bit, it should always be fed against the bit’s rotation (anti-clock) direction.
A jig or featherboard can be handy to keep workpieces close to the fence and safe when working on an edge profile, groove or wide dado. Jigs can help you rout larger edge profiles in multiple passes rather than one long cut.
Feed Direction
Whether you’re using a handheld router or a table-mounted unit, the fence is the key to routing safely and accurately. Without it, your bit may be able to snag the workpiece or set you off balance.
To prevent this, you need to pay close attention to the feed direction of your router fence. The correct feed direction is always against the rotation of your router bit.
The best way to remember which side of the bit is turning which way is to visualize it as you’re orienting the bit. That way, you’ll know the right direction to turn every time.
The wrong feed direction will make it difficult for the workpiece to be pushed against the fence and may even cause damage to the router. It’s especially important to keep an eye on the feed direction when trimming lippings flush to a board.