Spoilboard bit versus Clearing bit on Router?

MacBoy

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Nov 12, 2021
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I am confused on a router when to use a Spoilboard bit and when to use a Clearing bit.

I have a Festool OF 1010 and OF 1400. Thinking of getting Woodpeckers 8mm shank bits to use on either router.

These are two that I am considering, but unsure of the trade offs.



I recognize the Spoilboard bit has a larger diameter of 1” and 4-sided cutters.

Thank you for the insights! 😀
 
What's most suitable depends on what you're wanting to achieve?

If you want to surface sheets, chopping boards, do aggressive milling, etc, the spoilboard bit is the one most suitable for that. Usually have removable inserts that get replaced as they wear out or are damaged

If you're cutting out pockets using templates, rebates, etc, the pattern bits are most suited for that. Usually solid carbide, or TCT.

Spoilboard cutter = high removal rate, sometimes not the best finish
Pattern bit = lower removal rate, good quality finish
 
At least in the Ultra-Shear line, you won't find a lot of difference in finish quality. The "spoilboard" bits in general are larger diameter...so it takes less time to surface a spoilboard on a CNC. The smaller diameter of the "pocketing" bits fits better into the arcs of normal sized projects. I will say, I've not run the spoilboard bit in the Origin. I think it might struggle a little without a very shallow cut. I have run it in the 1010, and it handles it fine. LMT pretty well nailed it...big area - spoilboard. Smaller area with closed corners - pocket/pattern bit.
 
Clearing speed is not really the only variable. The smaller ones will get into tighter spaces and leave a smaller radius on inside corners. They also have bearings to guide them, for use in with templates.
 
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