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Plunge Router with hole saw bit
shmokes:
Could I use a hole saw bit in a plunge router to make it work like a drill press for perfectly straight cuts? I suppose the bit might not even clear the opening in the base of the router, but if it would is there any reason to avoid using drill bits in a router?
While we are at it can anyone tell me what size hole saw saw to use for buttons and joystics? I'm sure I can get this information from previous threads so I would appreciate at least an answer to the first question if anyone has an idea as to whether this would work.
hyiu:
if using normal microswitch buttons and joysticks like Super/Competition.. etc...
using 1 1/8 inch bit...
sorry.... donno about the other question...
mrhowell:
Router motors spin pretty fast.
reighty:
myhowell is right
a router would spin the bit really fast and in my experience, it is better to cut slower, especially if you are going to cut lexan/plexi.
Pixelhugger:
I agree with that "pretty fast" comment. A router will spin around 30,000 RPM while an electric drill will (MAX) around 2,200.
Putting a drill bit in your router may = death. It may spin you around javascript:wink() - or worse - may spin the router out of control and into your torso since the cutting surface of the bit is MUCH greater and has far greater "bite" than a router bit. Keep in mind that larger "router" bits such as those used for moulding and the like, are used in a shaper - which is widely regarded as the most dangerous shop tool made. 30,000 RPM + lack of solid control = flying body parts. Instead I suggest using the following tools-
Either find/borrow a drill press OR get one of these:
http://doitbest.com/shop/product.asp?mscssid=0HA7RDJRGBRR8K3CW5DQK5Q0R6UB6XKB&dept%5Fid=2615&sku=355194
- its a hand held guide to keep your drill on target-even at an angle.
As far as a bit goes- if you're drilling plexi DON'T use a hole saw. Though it will work this will tend to A) chip the plastic, B) crack the plastic and C) get filled with jammed up melted plastic which can take many times longer to pull out of the saw between holes than the holes took to drill!
USE A FORSTENER BIT! As seen in the following link:
http://doitbest.com/shop/product.asp?mscssid=0HA7RDJRGBRR8K3CW5DQK5Q0R6UB6XKB&dept%5Fid=2614&sku=304980
This is a drill bit with two "blades" running across a barrel. It shaves the plastic away leaving a beautifully smooth and accurate hole. I'm guessing you could even try it without the guide on a piece of scrap as it's pretty easy to control. But please for the love of GOD don't put this in a routerjavascript:wink()
I wish to hell I had used one for all of my 23 holes -javascript:angry() (I did catch on for the last few). Email me with any questions! javascript:grin()
mitch@swietlik.com