How to Cut a Rabbet on a Router Table
A rabbet cut, a rectangular recess along the edge or end of a piece of wood stock, is simple in appearance; but there is more to the rabbet cut than first meets the eye. To make the best use of rabbets, the woodworker needs to know the best method for cutting a rabbet on a router table. Although most often used in wood casing, a rabbet can also pop up in wooden picture frames, cabinet doors, molding, or as a half-lap or shiplap joint.
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Instructions
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Pick the right router bit: Two router bits work best for this type of cut. Obviously, a rabbet bit is designed specifically for the cut. The rabbet bit set comes with a number of various-size guide bearings for cutting different widths of rabbets. The second router bit for routing a rabbet cut is a straight bit. Although mostly used for dadoes, or grooves, this bit is in every router bit kit and is easy to install.
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Hone the cutting edge of the rabbet bit before each use to help establish a clean cut. Although it takes a professional to regrind router bits, honing them between cuts will prolong their life. Inspect the bit closely in good light. Look for nicks or blunt spots on the cutting edge. Hold a wooden match against the cutting edge and gently rotate the bit. It should leave a clean cut. If the rabbet bit is dull, gently hone the flat side of the bit with a file.
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Set the router table fence to the correct depth of the cut. Ensure that the fence is the same distance on both the left and right end from the edge of the router table to ensure a straight cut. Set the router bit to the correct height for the project cut. Double-check to ensure the router is firmly attached to the router table, and begin the rabbet cut.
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Use a technique called backrouting to eliminate rough cuts and chipouts: Set the straight bit to cut the full width of the rabbet. Adjust the bit depth so that only a half-inch of the straight bit's cutting edge is exposed below the faceplate. Slowly slide into the wood stock from right to left. Since this is opposite of regular routing, be careful to keep both hands on the wood stock as it makes contact with the router bit, as there will be a backward tug on the wood. Maintain constant contact with the bit at all times to ensure a clean cut.
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Set router fence to the correct depth for the full rabbet cut and finish the cut in a normal left-to-right fashion.
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Comments
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I only have a router and a piece of wood I do have a table...but...
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Have you used a router table before?
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I hope I can do this!
