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Can a router's pattern trimming bit be used to cut dados?

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javeryh:
I've decided that the cheapest and most accurate way to cut out straight lines for my cabinet will be to use a circular saw free hand to make the rough cuts (about 1/8" away from the actual lines) and then use some clamps, a straight-edge and my router with a pattern trimming bit to make the lines perfectly straight.  I am just wondering if I can use the same bit to cut dados in the wood for assembly.  I have a 3/4" pattern trimming bit and since the plywood I'm going to use is 3/4" I thought I would be able to kill two birds with one stone...  anyone know?  Thanks!

mpm32:
You can use a top mounted bearing pattern bit for routing dados.  However your bigger problem will be that the plywood that you think is 3/4" is really 23/32" not exactly 3/4".  So, if you use your 3/4" bit, the dado will be slightly large.  They make undersized bits for so called 3/4" ply.

Also, if you have the straight edge, you might as well use the circular saw for the cuts with the straight edge.  You're making more work for yourself otherwise.

Now if you made a fullsize pattern and zipped around that, that would work well.  I usually never make a pattern for just a one off project.  If I am making multiples then that's another thing all together.

javeryh:
Thanks for the reply.  I guess I won't be using it for the dados after all...  :(  The reason I don't want to use the straightedge for the circular saw is that I don't think it will be as accurate for some reason...  

RayB:
What's a dado?

mpm32:
A good blade and good technique and you will have accurate cuts.

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