Binding/Purfling Router Bits

[Winston_S]

Where can I find more specific information on the various router bits that are required for cutting the binding and purfling channels? I know very little about routers & laminate trimmers. I actually own two routers but haven't used them since I bought them a couple of years back when I got a good deal on them. Figured some day I'd put them to use. I see lots of information on the jigs being used to mount laminate trimmers on but not much on the actual bits being used.

Just doing my homework here while waiting for my kit to arrive, so any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[tippie53]

http://www.lmii.com/CartTwo/thirdproduc ... earing+Kit

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Tools/Speci ... rings.html
I prefer the LMI set . The key is to match the size cut to your designs. You may not need the full set just a few bearings .

Here is a link to a video using them to show how to set up an run them.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_q ... nding&aq=f

[kencierp]

Neither (IA Attachment or Table Model) KMG channel routing devices require special bits -- a simple 1/4" straight bit ($7.00) or down spiral can cut any depth and any height.

http://www.kennethmichaelguitars.com/portattach.html

http://www.kennethmichaelguitars.com/bi ... chine.html

[Jim_H]

I have the full stewmac set, and it's served me well using their binding cutter guide system.

I have a really nice hand held router guide that registers off the side and top of the guitar. I bought it from Tim Metcalf when he used to stalk these boards (he doesn't make them any more I don't think). I only experimented with it a few times though. I'm pretty tall, and I have a hard time getting comfortable hunched over a guitar body using the hand held units.

The stewmac guide, and the others like it, where the guitar is in a cradle are much easier to actually execute a good clean cut, but you do have to spend some time fussing over the setup, getting your height and depth adjusted just right.

I'm just in the process of putting the finishing touches on a new router table. I think when I get it done, I might add a table based guide system like the one Ken linked and give that a try.

I believe all of these systems use the same generic 1/4" spiral downcut bits, so there isn't much concern there. The details are in the way the depth and height of the cut is set. Some use bearings, others use the height and depth adjustment of the router guides to set.

There are lots of good videos on youtube showing how this is done. I believe there are videos of the LMII and Stewmac systems on their respective sites as well.

[Winston_S]

All very very helpful info. Thanks!

[David L]

+1 for Ken's hand held binding router attachment. I did a nearly perfect job with it on my firsrt try, it is almost idiot proof and you don't have to buy hundreds of dollars of router bits!

David L

[deadedith]

+1 on Ken's table top version. Very easy to set up and use. I've used it on 6 bodies with nary a problem.