Im new at routing and am having tearout on dovetails. Is it likely the bit or something else like the techniqe(s)?
Bob
Im new at routing and am having tearout on dovetails. Is it likely the bit or something else like the techniqe(s)?
Bob
If you are not using a backer board, you should give it a try and this may eliminate your problem.
Bob,
Could you describe HOW you are doing it?
When first starting out, I was climb-cutting without knowing it. The ONLY time you want to do a climb cut on a dovetail jig, that is, going right-to-left, is on your first pass, which MUST be a VERY light pass, barely touching the wood. After that, always go left-to-right, until you are all the way through the board.
Try this, and let us know how you make out.
Tear out on the front of back? What material are you using?
A shallow, careful climb cut will normally get rid of tear out along the front and a backer board will take care of the back.
Sharp bits are necessary, but you can cut a lot of dovetails with one bit.
Joe
JC Custom WoodWorks
For best results, try not to do anything stupid.
"So this is how liberty dies...with thunderous applause." - Padmé Amidala "Star Wars III: The Revenge of the Sith"
You need to provide more information. What router jig/template are you using? Some cut the pieces separately and some cut the front and sides at the same time.
Lee Schierer
USNA '71
Go Navy!
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