Special kind of router bit?

[GodSend25]

I made my control panel out of 3/4 MDF, and of course I want to use a router to reduce the amount of material that the joysticks bolt to so that they stick futher out of the top of the panel (like most people).

My father has router, but I have no idea what type of bit to get to "carve out" the sections.  Thanks guys.

[Beley]

I beleive they are simply called straight bits

it should look something like this

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[BobA]

Just use a straight cut carbide bit.  Set it to the depth required or remove some mdf and then set deeper if you need to remove alot of depth.

http://www.routerbits.com/cgi-routerbits/sr.cgi?1035929725_5959+12

BobA

[Vesper]

Yep what you want is a straight bit.

One thing to note:  Routers cut from the side.  This means if you are doing an inset section you need to cut out a pilot hole of some sort to get started.  This may require a large drill bit, or you can just try to gouge the wood out in a section.  Just don't set the router on top of the section to cut.  You won't have much luck.  

[hyiu]

if you're routing out some wood to let the joystick show up more, you can start from the center hole... then it'll be ok...

[Brax]

many straight bits allow for plunging as well. Look at the bit. It it has carbide on the bottom as well you'll be able to plunge it into the wood. But you're right, for our purposes you dont really need that feature.

[StingMe]

The folks over at

http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/

are VERY helpful (and patient with newbie questions ) Just send 'em an email telling them what you're doing and they'll let you know which bit you need.

Their router bits are fairly inexpensive and shipping is free (continental U.S.).

[elfman12]

BTW, what kind of router bit is used to cut the notch for the T-molding in 3/4MDF?

Thanks!

[eightbit]

To cut for t-molding you need a slot cutter.

[StingMe]

http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/smarthtml/pages/bt_slot.html

#5360 is designed for T-molding

[Brax]

a 1/16" slot cutter is what you want for t-molding. And let me tell you, if you find one, JUMP ON IT! They're super rare to find in stores... most people buy them online. You can also use a 1/8" slot cutting bit in a pinch you just use hot glue in the slot before you apply your t-molding.

[elfman12]

Cool, thanks for the replies. Couldn't find one at Lowes... looks like online is the way!