Milling bits and applications – find the right tool
Milling bits and applications – find the right tool
Milling bits are indispensable in both professional workshops and DIY projects, where precision and finish are crucial. Whether you work with wood, metal or plastic, there is a milling bit that suits the task. However, the many types and sizes can make it challenging to choose the right tool.
In this article, you will get an overview of the most important factors to consider when choosing milling bits, as well as an introduction to different types and brands that can help you find the best match for your project.
The article presents a wide range of milling bits that cover different materials, applications and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of features and characteristics so that you can more easily assess which types best suit your needs. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide a clear and comparable overview.
Factors to consider when buying milling bits
When choosing milling bits, it is important to take into account both the material you are working with and the desired precision. Here are some of the most important factors to consider.
1. Material and coating
Milling bits are typically made of HSS (High Speed Steel), carbide or with coatings such as titanium or cobalt. HSS bits are suitable for wood and softer metals, while carbide bits handle harder materials and have a longer lifespan. Coatings reduce heat generation and wear, providing smoother milling.
2. Shank type and compatibility
Make sure the shank fits your milling machine or drill. The most common types are cylindrical and hexagonal shanks. A proper match ensures stability and precision during work.
3. Cutting angle and geometry
The cutting angle affects how aggressively the bit removes material. A low angle gives a smoother surface, while a higher angle removes material faster. Choose geometry depending on whether you want fast processing or a fine finish.
4. Diameter and length
Milling bits come in many sizes. Smaller diameters are used for detailed cuts, while larger bits are suitable for rougher milling. The length determines how deep you can work – but remember that longer bits can be more prone to vibration.
5. Price and quality
The price depends on material, precision and brand. For hobby use, a mid-range set may be sufficient, while professionals should invest in quality bits with high wear resistance and precision. Consider how often you use the tool and choose accordingly.
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. Knowing the difference makes it easier to choose the right tool.
1. Spiral milling bits
Spiral milling bits are the most common and are used for general milling in wood, plastic and metal. They come with different spiral directions, which either pull the chips upward or downward depending on the material and desired surface.
2. Ball milling bits
Ball milling bits have a rounded tip and are used for 3D shaping, rounding and precision work. They are popular in metalworking and modelling, where accuracy is important.
3. Slot milling bits
Slot milling bits are used to mill grooves, joints and cut-outs in wood and MDF. They come in many widths and depths and are indispensable in furniture and carpentry work.
4. Edge milling bits
Edge milling bits are designed to process and shape edges. They can create profiles such as rounding, chamfering or decorative patterns and are often used with a router.
5. Special milling bits
There are also special bits for specific purposes, such as V-shaped bits for engraving, copy milling bits for template work or bits with replaceable blades for intensive industrial use.
Different brands of milling bits
The market for milling bits includes many manufacturers, each with their own strengths and focus areas.
Bosch
Bosch offers a wide range of milling bits for both professionals and DIY users. Their bits are known for high quality, precision and durability, covering everything from woodworking to metal milling.
Makita
Makita produces robust and reliable milling bits that fit their own machines as well as other brands. They are particularly popular among tradespeople who want tools with a long lifespan.
Dewalt
Dewalt focuses on professional solutions and offers milling bits with high precision and wear resistance. The range includes both standard and special bits for demanding tasks.
CMT
CMT is known for its quality bits for woodworking. The brand emphasises sharpness and precision, making their products popular among carpenters and furniture makers.
Festool
Festool offers premium milling bits that combine precision with ergonomic design. They cater to professionals who place high demands on both results and user-friendliness.
Frequently asked questions
What is a milling bit used for?
A milling bit is used to remove material and shape workpieces in wood, metal or plastic. It can create grooves, edges, holes and profiles depending on the type of bit and the machine it is used with.
Can I use the same milling bit for different materials?
It is recommended to use bits designed for the specific material. A bit for wood will quickly wear out in metal, while a metal bit may give too rough a finish in wood.
How do I maintain my milling bits?
Clean the bits after use, remove chips and dust, and store them in a dry place. Sharp bits give better results, so sharpen or replace them when they become worn.
What do cutting angle and rotation direction mean?
The cutting angle determines how the bit removes material, while the rotation direction (right- or left-cutting) affects the chip direction. It is important to choose the correct direction according to the machine’s rotation.
Can milling bits be used in a regular drill?
Some milling bits can be used in a drill, but for precision work a router or CNC machine is recommended, as they provide better control and stability.
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