A set of cutters for a hand router - a detailed description of what it is and what types of cutters there are for wood or metal

Changed and forgot | 12/27/2016

A manual milling machine is a high-performance equipment. If you have a large number of interchangeable tools, they can be used to perform a wide variety of work with wood. For this purpose, various types of cutters have been developed and produced. Today, we will talk about the types of cutters and their purpose, and also touch on the main selection criteria.

What is a milling cutter?

The device works due to the movement of the cutter, which affects the material being processed, and it, in turn, moves towards the cutter thanks to a special installation on the table. It is important to install the tool correctly and secure it in order to maintain operating conditions and safety rules (power up to 2000W).

Areas of application: carpentry work with different materials. Wood, acrylic, eurolining, organic glass, polycarbonate, parquet, etc. The machines come in prefabricated models or solid, easily transportable. The machines differ according to the type of processing and the decisive part in them is the cutters, which come in different shapes and types.

It is worth noting that cutters are sold in sets and individually. The choice between them depends on the goals of the work and the professional skills of the master. The kits may contain parts that may never be useful in the work; on the other hand, such kits are more profitable than the cost.

It is also recommended to purchase kits for beginners in this work, in order to have different options available for practice and training.

Milling cutter is different - how many of you are there...

Manicure cutters are usually classified according to the material of manufacture and the degree of abrasiveness. The harder the material and the larger the cell, the rougher the work for which the tool is intended. In addition, for each cutter it is necessary to set its own machine speed. To avoid sawing through the nail, for example, to avoid injuring yourself by removing the skin and to avoid damaging the cutter. If we distribute according to the degree of rigidity, then the cutters are:

• ceramic;
• metal or carbide;
• diamond;
• plastic;
• silicone.

Universal tools are a separate category. But this does not mean that such a cutter can be used both for creating a shape and for polishing. Universal tools are, for example, diamond and metal nozzles for treating nails, silicone and ceramic for treating skin.

Types of cutters

To correctly select a part, you need to determine what the desired result of the work is, because the quality and types of machines differ significantly, and even more so, the components have a lot of differences.

When choosing a shank, pay attention to the standard sizes: 6, 8 and 12 mm, sometimes 6.35 and 12.7 mm.

The cutters are designed both for use on professional equipment and for compact portable installation.

• End mill - for processing the ends of the material.
• Groove cutter - makes the groove rectangular.
• Cylindrical-grooved - needed to make the required depth and width.
• Fillet cutter - a semicircular hole appears at the exit.
• V-shaped for the appropriate shape of the product.
• A tenon or T bit to make a dovetail.
• Tapered for outer edges.
• Moulding creates round-shaped parts.
• Quarter and disc cutters for windows.
• Disc-slot (larger processing area).
• Antennas (working with a round shape).
• Overrunning with two bearings (makes a beautiful edge).
• Seam and edge cutters (rectangular).
• Cone-edge for connection and decoration.
• Alkyl edge, round groove.
• Semi-rod (processed to a cylindrical shape on both sides).
• A combined cutter used to create a tenon and groove.
• Nozzle for connecting parts with 90° inclination.

Most often, specialists work on milling machines and perform several jobs at the same time, so they need to use several types of cutters, which means that it is best to purchase several pieces at once.

It is most profitable to buy sets that have several options for cutters. Milling cutters are made from steel materials with high hardness, and for some types of materials, cutters are created with the addition of tungsten carbide.

End mills

Their main feature is the presence of cutting edges at the end of the working part.

This does not mean that they only work with axial loads. They can also have side edges that allow you to move the cutter in the plane of the router's support pad, making various grooves and cuts in the material. They may have a different number of cutting edges, and, accordingly, different cleanliness of material processing.

End mills are most often monolithic, but there are also composite ones. A striking example of this can be core cutters, more often used with a drill.

How to choose cutters

When choosing a cutter, we pay attention to:

• Sharpening Level - Swipe across the paper to see how sharp it is.
• You will see the quality of the alloy by its shine.
• The geometry is determined by external inspection - there should be no distance from the knife to the ruler.
• Soldering - must be located along the entire length so that the cutter does not break.
• Hardness of the alloy - this indicator can be confirmed by quality documents for the product.

A novice specialist can choose budget, that is, inexpensive materials and develop practical skills with them, but in the future for professional work you should not save, otherwise it will affect the quality of the work performed.

Groove cutters for wood

Their main purpose is to form grooves, but most often they are used for carving wood using a hand router.

And there are quite a lot of varieties:

• spiral - the same type as most end mills with a more formed external helical cutting edge, reminiscent of a drill;

• fillet – making semicircular grooves;

• conical - often they are used for carving on a plane;

• T-shaped;

• dovetail type;

• shaped;

• combined - used for gluing large wooden panels.

Groove cutters that work on the surface of wooden products are most often monolithic, but they also come with carbide cutting edges.

The best milling cutter manufacturers

• Set Fit 6 pieces. Perfectly packaged and suitable for a young master.
• Bit Fit 36692 aybr masters for spot machining. The advantage is that it is a one-piece purchase.
• Set CALIBER 0504 work for wood.​
• Total TACSR 1121 great functionality.
• Set STAYER 2992-H12 for soft types of wood.

Copy cutters

This is the smallest subgroup of cutters for a hand router. The main difference between such cutters is the overall dimensions, the number of cutting edges and the location of the thrust bearings or thrust surfaces: above, below or on both sides of the cutting part.

They are the ones that come into contact with the template, according to which the milling shape of the workpiece is copied. The principle of their operation will become clearer after watching a short video:

Milling machines. The best types on the market

1. HIKKOKI M12SA2 - well suited for making holes of any depth.
2. KRUGER KR-1650 is a multifunctional device, suitable for making holes and making grooves.
3. Elitech F 1800E - suitable for durable materials, plastic and metal.
4. Bosch POF 1400 ACE - for hard wood. Plus low cost, minus heavy weight.
5. Makita 3612 C is a powerful device that can operate for many years.

Rating of the top 10 best manual wood routers

In the article, we tried to determine the most popular tools, according to users, and compiled a list of the most popular ones. I suggest going to the list and familiarizing yourself with the presented copies.

• BOSCH POF 1200 AE.
• Kolner KER 1200V.
• BOSCH POF 1400 ACE.
• Interskol FM-40/1000E DM.
• Wortex MM 5013-1 E.
• BOSCH GKF 550 Professional.
• BLACK+DECKER KW1200E.
• Makita RT0700C.
• Makita RP2301FCX.
• ELITECH F 1800E.

Let's take a closer look at each of the presented models.

BOSCH POF 1200 AE

A reliable, vertically directed device with rich functionality. The rubberized L-shaped handles are ergonomic and very easy to use. For the sake of safety, the trigger mechanism is blocked here, and the start of work occurs smoothly, without jerking.

The spindle speed can be easily adjusted and, if necessary, blocked. The speed of revolutions is automatically stabilized. During operation, it is possible to adjust the milling depth. The delivery set includes a copy sleeve, three collets and groove cutters for wood for a hand router.

Price: from 5,508 to 7,690 rubles.

BOSCH POF 1200 AE

Advantages

• rich equipment (parallel stop, copy sleeve, three collets, groove cutter, centering rod and key);
• speed adjustment according to material and task;
• keyless replacement of attachments;
• possibility of connecting a vacuum cleaner;
• transparent protective shield.

Flaws

• the work area is not highlighted.

I recently chose sets of wood cutters for a hand router for this unit. I already have the tool itself and have been using it for about a year. I was lucky, I bought it at the old price and I’m not complaining. During all the time I used it, it never let me down. Comfortable, fast, doesn’t make much noise, overall I like it and don’t plan to change it yet.

Kolner KER 1200V

A budget, but fairly high-quality version of the tool was included in the rating of manual wood routers precisely for these parameters. It is perfect for beginners, as at its price it has all the qualities of a professional device.

There is a ruler for setting the exact depth of milling, smooth speed adjustment, a durable cast sole and connection to a vacuum cleaner. In addition, it has a good set of accessories included. Equipped with protection against accidental start-up and equipped with a spindle lock, allowing you to quickly and safely change equipment.

Price range: from 2,988 to 5,201 rubles.

Kolner KER 1200V

Advantages

• smooth speed control;
• solid aluminum sole with protective coating;
• accidental start blocking;
• rubberized handles;
• quick change of cutters thanks to spindle rotation lock.

Flaws

• no backlight.

I used to have an edge router, but it is a highly specialized tool. I decided to take a universal one and the choice fell on Kellner, the types of cutters for a manual wood router are suitable for it, you only need to buy an additional collet for 12. I am completely satisfied with the device, the assembly is good, the functionality is excellent. I recommend it to beginners!

BOSCH POF 1400 ACE

The productive branded unit has all the useful qualities of a vertical router and can be used as a professional tool. The depth is adjusted using a special revolving stop.

The attachments are changed in safe mode with the spindle locked, and there are a considerable number of attachments included in the kit. In addition to three collets of different calibers, there is a separate hard case with a set of six different hand router bits for wood.

You will be interested in: TOP 7 best rotary hammers: which one to buy, reviews, characteristics, price, pros and cons

Price tag: from 9,466 to 12,490 rubles.

BOSCH POF 1400 ACE

Advantages

• large set with a set of cutters and chucks;
• collet fixation is provided;
• speed adjustment and support under load;
• precise setting of stroke depth;
• There is a backlight for the work surface.

Flaws

• installation of a 12 mm collet is not provided.

I use the router for wood carving and all sorts of crafts, sometimes I manage to sell them online and to friends. The device has long justified its price. The assembly is high quality, nothing has come loose yet. The ergonomics are good, your hands lie comfortably and practically do not get tired, although the unit is a little heavy, which, in principle, you quickly get used to. It’s a pity that there is no way to install a 12 mm collet, but that’s too much for me. I recommend!

Interskol FM-40/1000E DM

The model is interesting for its capabilities and low price. The router can easily be used in a small workshop, not to mention ordinary household use. The unit is switched on with a soft start.

It works with collets with a diameter of 6 and 8 mm, which are supplied with the device. A transparent plastic shield reliably protects the user’s eyes during operation and allows you to monitor the progress of the cutter. The manufacturer even took care of stamping identical products and included a flat and roller copier in the box.

Price: from 4,990 to 5,240 rubles.

Interskol FM-40/1000E DM

Advantages

• a soft start system is installed;
• rotation speed adjustment;
• ability to lock the spindle;
• two types of copiers included.

Flaws

• not found.

I bought it for household chores and decided to make beautiful figured shelves, hangers and the like. Since I had never done this before, I didn’t choose an expensive item. Interskol seemed the most optimal. In fact, it turned out to be a simple and convenient tool, even a beginner can use it easily. I tested the copying devices, it turned out great, at least print it for sale.

Wortex MM 5013-1 E

The compact edge router has an ergonomic body that is comfortable to hold in your hands during operation. Adding convenience is the ability to smoothly adjust the immersion depth. Equipped with two collets for 6 and 8 mm.

The design includes a speed regulator and a connection pipe for the vacuum cleaner. A low-power engine is unlikely to allow you to work with hard materials, but it is ideal for woodworking. The spindle is securely fixed. There are parallel guides.

Estimated cost: from 3,800 to 5,389 rubles.

Wortex MM 5013-1 E

Advantages

• a stop and guides are provided;
• possibility of connecting a vacuum cleaner;
• The cutter plunge is continuously adjustable.

Flaws

• no backlight provided;
• working depth is only 22 mm.

An excellent hand-held wood router for the price. It is easy to operate and can be operated with one hand without much strain. Various bases are sold separately for it, so you can diversify the functionality if desired. Not noisy. Just right for small home projects!

BOSCH GKF 550 Professional

A small milling machine for making edges, edgings and grooves on wooden parts can achieve impressive rotation speeds, while having an economical electric motor. For ease of use, the body of the device is rubberized, which prevents your hand from slipping.

The brushes are easily accessible, so you can easily replace them yourself. The position of the cutter is fixed using a parallel stop. This improves the quality of the result obtained.

Prices: from 5,019 to 6,750 rubles.

BOSCH GKF 550 Professional

Advantages

• ergonomic rubberized body;
• equipped with a stop and guide;
• high speed with a not very powerful engine.

Flaws

• there is no way to connect a vacuum cleaner;
• no backlight;
• uses collets no more than 6 mm in diameter.

The unit is not exactly what I wanted; it is one of the best in the ratings, obviously due to its quality and durability. The equipment is rather poor, and there are not enough functions, but I always chose it based on the criterion of reliability. It showed itself excellently when cutting out various decors on wood; it makes edges just fine. I liked the milling cutter, I was definitely not mistaken in my choice.

BLACK+DECKER KW1200E

A multi-tasking tool will simplify edge processing and allow you to make shaped slates and grooves. The German company provides a stylish design and ergonomic body. The user will be able to work comfortably with a minimum of physical effort. The ability to connect a vacuum cleaner allows you to ensure cleanliness when performing work.

You will be interested in: TOP 10 rating of the best cordless chain saw: which one to choose and buy, characteristics, reviews, pros and cons

Various types of cutters allow you to make three collets, which are included in the kit. The aluminum sole is highly durable. Protection of the surface being treated and improved contact with it is ensured by the presence of an antistatic lining.

Price range: from 4,600 to 5,590 rubles.

BLACK+DECKER KW1200E

Advantages

• built-in air engine cooling system;
• there is protection against accidental activation;
• rotation lock allows you to quickly change attachments;
• comfortable handles with rubber pads;
• turret adjustment of vertical stroke.

Flaws

• lack of soft start and backlight.

Quite a decent cutter! The revolutions, of course, drop under heavy load, there is a small amount of play, but considering its price and overall quality of workmanship, the shortcomings are tolerable. The guides do not jam, I looked under the anthers, there is grease there. The sole is smooth. In general, the impression is good, six months without complaints, and then we’ll see.

Makita RT0700C

This trimmer has gained popularity due to its quality and functionality. The motor is quite powerful for this type of device, it makes it easy to process edges, make grooves and recesses, so the device will find its place in any workshop.

There are two sizes of cartridges used here. In addition, it can be combined with four different soles, which you will have to buy separately. All the necessary functions are present here: speed adjustment, shaft locking, processing depth control. The body is made of durable aluminum.

Approximate cost: from 8,500 to 9,090 rubles.

Makita RT0700C

Advantages

• electronic speed control;
• a soft start of the device is provided;
• The kit includes a parallel stop;
• There is a dust removal system.

Flaws

• Workplace lighting is not provided.

During the month of work I managed to change my opinion about the instrument a couple of times, there were moments when I was upset, but this is nonsense. I just had to get used to working on new equipment. In the end, I can say that the device is excellent! Full set of functions and different collets included with the copier. Buying cutters for this manual wood router is not a problem. I'm definitely happy with my choice!

Makita RP2301FCX

A professional tool with a set of all functions will allow the user to easily work with wood and any of its derivatives. Speed ​​control and a powerful motor can accelerate the speed to 22,000 per minute and maintain this figure despite heavy loads.

Illumination of the workspace makes it possible to work in limited lighting conditions, and a four-meter power cable eliminates the need to carry an extension cord with you. Among other advantages, this tool can be installed permanently and used as a machine.

Cost range: from 23,560 to 31,007 rubles.

Makita RP2301FCX

Advantages

• possibility of permanent installation;
• soft start function;
• function of quick stop of the spindle and its fixation;
• speed support under load;
• electronic rotation speed control;
• turret stop and fine depth adjustment.

Flaws

• not found.

I can only say good things about the router; I have never seen a more convenient one. Assembly, power, electronics at the highest level. Many people talk about the sharp brake, but for me everything is fine, I feel a slight jerk and that’s all. The play of the struts is minimal, the collet is a little warm after 2 hours of work. In the past I had experience working with a couple of Chinese milling cutters, it’s just heaven and earth, now I won’t even touch the Chinese, I’ll only save for quality things.

ELITECH F 1800E

The tool is designed for a wide range of woodworking jobs. Fixation of the working equipment is carried out using a collet method, this is controlled by a micrometric regulator. The vertical stroke is adjusted by eight positions of the turret stop.

You may be interested in: Choosing a lawn mower for the home: rating of the best gasoline and electric ones, reviews

The speed is changed using a smooth switch. Comfort of work is ensured by a system of smooth rotation start and illumination of the work area. As a safety system, protection against accidental activation is installed.

Price range: from 7,858 to 11,203 rubles.

ELITECH F 1800E

Advantages

• soft start system and switching lock;
• electronic speed stabilization installed;
• the work area is illuminated;
• built-in smooth speed control;
• It is possible to connect a vacuum cleaner.

Flaws

• not found.

I make furniture, and such a thing is simply necessary in this business. So I bought it on occasion, and since then the machine has been working almost every day. It makes a lot of noise, but in the workshop this is not important, the most important thing is that it does its job perfectly. It has already earned its value and I think it will serve me for a long time. Great tool!

Rules for caring for cutters

The sets are sold in special boxes; they are convenient for storing and transporting cutters. It is important to monitor temperature and cleanliness. There should be no moisture near the parts; it is recommended to keep the kits in bags.

User reviews are unanimous that you need to purchase cutters from trusted manufacturers, and you don’t need to pay attention to the price, since there are cases when budget cutters turned out to be better than expensive options.

In addition, the craftsmen note the importance of checking for the absence of external defects in the product before purchasing.

According to the vast majority of manufacturers of designer furniture, it is impossible to produce the necessary components for their projects with high quality and quickly.

• Thus, vertical routers are excellent assistants in this work.
• But they are not very convenient to use; here an edging tool comes to the rescue, easy to use.
• It has precise settings and is easy to transport.
• The specialist recommends paying attention to combined devices.

It turns out that each master chooses a convenient router that is able to cope with the task. The presence of unique properties in each machine is taken into account when choosing

Rating of the best brands

The most inexpensive

JessNail

A Chinese manufacturer that has been on the nail industry market for over 15 years and has proven itself to be the best. Milling cutters are available in a fairly wide range, so everyone can choose the right option for themselves. The company even offers unique varieties made from special mineral rocks that cannot be found anywhere else. Consumer reviews of cutters are extremely positive; only silicone products, which are prone to grinding faster and losing the original quality of processing, can disappoint.

Manicure cutter JessNail

Advantages:

• a wide range of;
• providing unique products.

Flaws:

• insufficient quality of silicone cutters.

TNL Professional

Over more than ten years of experience, the company has managed to significantly improve the quality of its products and take a leading position in the market, ahead of most competitors. The brand's products are distinguished by a decent level of quality, long service life, and low price segment. The range is represented by a wide variety of cutters made from various materials.

Manicure cutter TNL Professional

Advantages:

• easy to purchase in specialized stores;
• full range;
• use of practical manufacturing materials;
• low cost.

Flaws:

• not detected.

HDFreza

It is a subsidiary of the best distributor of manicure and pedicure instruments, Myslitsky Nail. Reviews about the products are extremely positive; consumers note the long service life of the cutters. The range is quite extensive: you can find both ceramic and corundum cutters, as well as steel ones.

The shapes of the cutters are also pleasing with their diversity, and the material used is of excellent quality, significantly superior to competitive analogues.

Manicure cutter HDFreza

Advantages:

• wide choose;
• decent level of quality;
• versatility of sizes;
• low cost.

Flaws:

• Rarely available for sale.

Magic Bits

A young brand from Russia, existing since 2015 and providing comprehensive, balanced and basic nail treatment technology at home and in the salon. The range consists of products made of steel, corundum and garnet. The cutters are quite practical to use, do not require special habits, and most importantly, they exhibit excellent wear resistance. For convenience, the cutters are marked with colored notches and engraved with the brand itself - this distinctive feature is the “highlight” of the company, compared to its competitors. In general, the entire range is divided into 2 categories: for use in the salon and at home. The latter are distinguished by more delicate heads, which ensures the greatest safety when used by novice craftsmen.

Manicure cutter Magic Bits

Advantages:

• high-quality manufacturing materials;
• the presence of colored notches;
• full range of products;
• presence of engraving;
• low cost.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Mid price segment

Yoko

Russian brand. The range is represented by trendy cutters made of heat-resistant high-alloy steel. This ensures smooth running of the product during operation, as well as wear resistance. In addition, they are perfectly suitable for all manicure devices, tolerate sterilization well, and are resistant to chemical disinfection procedures.

Manicure cutter Yoko

Advantages:

• high quality materials;
• versatility of sizes and shapes;
• can be used both at home and in the salon.

Flaws:

• The cost of production is slightly above average.

RuNail

The company, which has been on the market for over 15 years, has been able to create a wide range of cutters made from soft, hard and practical materials. In addition, she promptly identifies fashion trends in the field of nail modeling and develops and releases new products that instantly become hits.

Manicure cutter RuNail

Advantages:

• wide choose;
• high degree of hardness and wear resistance;
• middle price segment;
• can be bought at any store.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Patrisa Nail

The rich line of manicure devices of this brand is represented by carbide and ceramic options. True, the assortment contains only basic types of attachments used in hardware manicure and intended for treating the nail plate and skin. But at the same time, the quality of the products remains at a fairly high level. You can mainly purchase products only online at a fairly reasonable price.

Manicure cutter Patrisa Nail

Advantages:

• convenience of shapes and sizes;
• high level of quality;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• narrow range;
• difficult to find for public sale.

In'Garden

The range of cutters of this company is small; production is carried out in Russia, the USA, and Germany. Moreover, the products belong to the middle price segment. On sale you can find a wide variety of products made from a variety of materials and having the required shape, size and degree of rigidity.

Manicure cutter In'Garden

Advantages:

• excellent quality;
• the presence of colored notches;
• middle price segment.

Flaws:

• narrow range.

Irisk Professional

A manufacturer from Russia, occupying a leading position in the nail business since 2005. The company cooperates exclusively with the best factories in the USA, England, Pakistan, China and Russia. All products are made from high-quality and durable materials. Most of them are presented in pink colors, which will undoubtedly appeal to the fair sex.

Manicure cutter Irisk Professional

Advantages:

• wide choose;
• nice pink color;
• middle price segment;
• can be purchased at any specialty store.

Flaws:

• With frequent use, the attachments wear out quickly.

Barrel Ball

A brand from the USA, which appeared relatively recently, has already gained confidence among avid craftsmen as a reliable manufacturer. Currently, the company is distributed mainly in narrow circles. There are also some difficulties with purchasing products, since they are mainly offered only by online stores. The range includes all existing types of cutters that are resistant to rapid abrasion. Craftsmen also note a distinctive feature of the product – a slightly unusual size. That is why it will take some time to get used to them, especially for beginners. In addition, such cutters are suitable for salon use; they will not be entirely convenient for working at home.

Manicure cutter Barrel Ball

Advantages:

• wide selection of products;
• long service life of the abrasive;
• middle price segment.

Flaws:

• Due to its narrow distribution, it can be difficult to find on sale.

Premium class

Planet Nails

A brand that has been present in the nail business market for over 20 years. According to numerous consumer reviews, the company is famous for its incomparable quality and approach to product manufacturing. The only drawback is the high price segment, the cost of products is much higher than that of competitors. The range of cutters is presented in sets (diamond, ceramic, carbide). In addition, the products have colored notches for ease of selection and subsequent work.

Manicure cutter Planet Nails

Advantages:

• high level of quality;
• wide choose;
• the presence of colored notches.

Flaws:

• can be difficult to find in specialized stores;
• overpriced.

Strong

The brand belongs to the Saeshin company, which is a long-lived market resident. The assortment is represented by structurally universal manicure cutters, ideally suitable for any model of nail service apparatus due to the standard shank. In the process of their creation, computer control is used, which makes it possible to create a perfectly smooth and completely safe product.

Manicure cutter Strong

Advantages:

• structurally universal products;
• suitable for any equipment;
• safety guarantee.

Flaws:

• high price.

Photo of a set of cutters