How to Use a Plunge Router for Panel Cutting

A router is a necessary power tool for woodworkers. It is used for cutting, designing and crafting wood projects. A fixed router doesn't weigh very much so maneuvering one around wood is simple. But a plunge router is a little more heavy duty and commercial. It is made for larger projects and requires more control in routing. A plunge router works well on cutting grooves in panels, so if you are thinking about a router purchase for panel cutting, a plunge router is your best bet. Read through the following steps to find out how to use one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plunge router Router bit Workpiece Panel groove jig

1. Install the router bit into your plunge router and secure it tightly. Set the plunge depth on your plunge router to the depth that you want your panel groove.

2. Place the router flat on the wood over the area on your panel in which you need to cut.

3. Plunge the router bit into the wood and slowly begin routing your groove into the panel. Hold the handles tightly while routing to prevent your router from wandering.

4. Cut a little at a time, if a large amount of wood is being removed. If you try to remove to much wood at once, you risk damaging the wood and the bit.

5. Guide the plunge router along a straight line by using a fence set up tight against the router bit, or a pre-made jig crafted especially for cutting panel.

Tips & Warnings

• A combination router allows a fixed base as well as a plunge base. If your budget allows, the combination router is the best choice.
• A plunge router is not suitable for attaching to a router table.