Milling bits – what you should know before you choose
Milling bits – what you should know before you choose
Milling bits are indispensable when you need to machine wood, metal or plastic with precision. They are used in everything from furniture production to hobby projects and make it possible to create grooves, profiles and cut-outs with high accuracy. But with many types, sizes and materials on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right milling bit for the job.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of the most important factors you should know before buying milling bits, as well as an introduction to different types and manufacturers on the market.
The article presents a wide range of milling bits covering different materials, purposes and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of features and areas of use, so you can more easily find the milling bit that suits your needs. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to give a clear and practical overview.
Factors to consider when buying milling bits
When choosing milling bits, it’s important to consider both the material you’ll be working with and the type of milling you want to perform. Here are some of the most important factors to consider.
1. Material and coating
Milling bits are typically made of high-speed steel (HSS), carbide (HM) or with a diamond coating.
- HSS is suitable for softer materials such as wood and plastic.
- Carbide bits last longer and can be used for harder materials such as aluminium and steel.
- Diamond-coated bits are used for very hard surfaces such as fibreglass and composite.
Coatings such as titanium or nitride can increase wear resistance and reduce heat generation during use.
2. Shank type and machine compatibility
Make sure the shank fits your milling machine. The most common sizes are 6 mm, 8 mm and 12 mm. A correct fit ensures stability and precision during work.
3. Cutting angle and shape
The cutting angle affects how the material is removed. A positive cutting angle provides fast cutting, while a negative angle gives a smoother surface. The shape of the milling bit – e.g. ball-shaped, V-shaped or spiral – determines what type of cut you can make.
4. Area of application
Consider whether you need the bit for edge milling, slot milling, profiling or planing. Each purpose requires a specific type of bit optimised for the task.
5. Price and quality
Price and quality often go hand in hand. Cheaper bits may be fine for hobby use, while professional craftsmen should invest in high-quality bits that last longer and deliver more precise results.
Products in focus
The CMT Router Table w/o Cabinet is a freestanding workbench developed for use with hand routers. The table provides a stable and safe work surface, focusing on precision and control.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing tasks.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, ensuring stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly while still being movable as needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of hand routers. The table can be used with router bits up to 98 mm in diameter, providing great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Fixed steel legs and solid MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible use: Fits most hand routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop provides ample space for routing tasks.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other hand routers
- Max. router bit diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and consistent edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, which is ideal for level routing of edges.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, providing a stable and controlled working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with sensitive materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise control and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise level routing of edges.
- Compatibility: Fits Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows for precise and safe work with wooden materials. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and large projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a workbench size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection port allows for the attachment of dust extraction for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free workbench.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Workbench of 610 × 810 mm provides ample space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction connection: Port with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Workbench width: 610 mm
- Workbench length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection port diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT Router Table with Cabinet is a professional workbench designed for clamping hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to warping and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which make it possible to adjust the fence precisely. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed from above without having to remove the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as a fixed and as a pivoting fence. It is quickly adjusted using a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks in hard plastic for extra support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and resistance to warping.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change router bits from above without removing the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as a fixed or pivoting fence with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router Table with Cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet
The Festool router bit box Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows for a wide range of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge routers and groove routers to moulding routers, chamfer routers and dovetail routers, making the set suitable for both finishing, joints and decorative profiles. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep track of the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with 8 mm collet.
- Carbide bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers both groove, edge and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router, dowel bit, groove routers, moulding routers, chamfer router, slot cutter and dovetail router
Product descriptions
The CMT Router Table w/o Cabinet is a freestanding workbench developed for use with hand routers. The table provides a stable and safe work surface, focusing on precision and control.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing tasks.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, ensuring stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly while still being movable as needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of hand routers. The table can be used with router bits up to 98 mm in diameter, providing great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Fixed steel legs and solid MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible use: Fits most hand routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop provides ample space for routing tasks.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or extra storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other hand routers
- Max. router bit diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and consistent edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, which is ideal for level routing of edges.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, providing a stable and controlled working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve an even result, even when working with sensitive materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise control and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise level routing of edges.
- Compatibility: Fits Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Includes guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Supplied without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows for precise and safe work with wooden materials. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and large projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a workbench size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection port allows for the attachment of dust extraction for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free workbench.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Workbench of 610 × 810 mm provides ample space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction connection: Port with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different router machines
- Large and flat work surface
- Option for dust extraction connection
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Workbench width: 610 mm
- Workbench length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection port diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT Router Table with Cabinet is a professional workbench designed for clamping hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to warping and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium scales, which make it possible to adjust the fence precisely. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed from above without having to remove the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as a fixed and as a pivoting fence. It is quickly adjusted using a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks in hard plastic for extra support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and resistance to warping.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change router bits from above without removing the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as a fixed or pivoting fence with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction in phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium scales
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Built-in storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router Table with Cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet
The Festool router bit box Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows for a wide range of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge routers and groove routers to moulding routers, chamfer routers and dovetail routers, making the set suitable for both finishing, joints and decorative profiles. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep track of the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with 8 mm collet.
- Carbide bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers both groove, edge and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router, dowel bit, groove routers, moulding routers, chamfer router, slot cutter and dovetail router
Different types of milling bits
There are many types of milling bits, each designed for specific tasks and materials.
1. Slot cutters
Slot cutters are used to make grooves and recesses in wood or metal. They come in different diameters and cutting lengths, depending on how deep and wide the slot needs to be.
2. Edge cutters
Edge cutters are used to shape and round edges on workpieces. They can create both decorative and functional profiles, e.g. rounded corners or rebated edges.
3. Template cutters
Template cutters are used with templates and are ideal when you need to repeat the same shape several times with high precision.
4. Spiral cutters
Spiral cutters have a spiral-shaped blade that effectively removes chips and provides a smooth surface. They are available in both up-cut and down-cut variants, depending on whether you want to pull the chips upwards or downwards.
5. Planing cutters
Planing cutters are used to level surfaces or remove larger amounts of material. They are suitable for preparing workpieces before applying veneer or laminate.
Different brands of milling bits
The market for milling bits is broad, and several manufacturers specialise in different types and quality levels.
Bosch
Bosch offers a wide range of milling bits for both professionals and DIY users. Their bits are known for high precision and durability, especially in the carbide series.
Makita
Makita produces milling bits that fit their own machines, but also many other brands. They focus on robustness and efficient chip removal, making them popular among craftsmen.
CMT
CMT is an Italian brand known for high quality and precision. Their milling bits are often used in furniture production and professional woodworking.
Festool
Festool offers premium milling bits with a focus on precision and durability. They are particularly suitable for advanced woodworking projects where accuracy is crucial.
Dewalt
Dewalt combines solid build quality with a wide range of bits for different materials. They are a good choice for both professionals and ambitious hobby users.
Frequently asked questions
Which milling bit should I choose for wood?
For general woodworking, HSS or carbide bits are a good choice. If you’re milling hardwood or MDF, carbide bits are recommended as they stay sharp longer.
Can I use the same milling bit for several materials?
Some milling bits can be used for multiple materials, but the best results are achieved by choosing bits designed for the specific material. This extends the lifespan and provides a nicer finish.
How do I maintain my milling bits?
Clean the bits after use to remove resin and dust. Store them dry and in individual holders to avoid damage to the cutting edges. Dull bits can often be resharpened.
How long does a milling bit last?
The lifespan depends on the material you’re working with and how often you use the bit. Carbide bits can typically last many times longer than HSS bits, especially with proper use and maintenance.
Is there a difference between milling bits for hand routers and CNC machines?
Yes, CNC milling bits are often designed for higher rotational speeds and more precise control. Hand router bits are adapted for manual operation and require more control from the user.
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