I own a small Festool trim router. The Collet size is 1/4". My Porter Cable dovetail jig system 4212 requires a special size router bit. The bit that comes with the jig has a 1/2" shaft. It will not allow me to use the 1/4" collet. There is no mini router that offers a 1/2" collet.
The angle of the cutting edges is critical to produce properly fitting dovetails. This is not a common size bit. This bit meets the requirements. The length of the cutting edges is also important. This bit provides the length needed.
The carbide cutters are very sharp. The bit is balanced and does not vibrate when used in my Festool router. When cutting dovetails in plywood, the glues used are very abrasive to any bit and build up a thin coating on the edges. This results in smoking and burning of the wood. I use a lot of Baltic Birch plywood and this is hard on bits.
Thus far this bit cuts the same as more expensive bits usually available from local woodworking stores. I expect given these results that the life of the bit will be about the same as more expensive bits, sometimes costing 2x to 3x as much. The cost of these bits is very attractive when it comes time to replace one.
You should be able to use this bit for a very long time in ordinary hardwoods ie. Oak, Walnut, Birch, Poplar and my favorite - Cherry. You can expect the same fuzzy cuts in Poplar or other softer hardwood. It will require the use of a sharp chisel, razor knife or sandpaper to remove the fuzz.
I have several routers but prefer to use the Festool for dovetails and edge trimming of laminates and veneers. The reason for this is the ability to accurately adjust the depth of cut 1/256" per click of the adjusting knob. I used to use a Porter Cable mini router for this but it was very difficult to adjust and lock the depth of cut in place.
This router bit makes a clean cut at the bottom of the dovetail. It is easy to make a professional furniture grade joint.
The only negative thing I can add is that now I have to build another wood box for my Porter Cable Jig and Accessory box to make room for this bit. Wait! I like to build boxes. Maybe this is a positive. Good product, great price and you should buy this.
