recommendation on template bit for cutting 3/4 to 1 in board.

[xmenxmen]

Need to buy a template bit soon to redo one of my control panel.  The cp is 3/4in and the replacement one is also the same size.  The old one will most likely be seating on top.  But if possible I would like the flexibility to be able to cut no matter if the template is on top or bottom.   

When I was adding the plexi to my cp, I use a flush trim bit, but the one I have only has cut length of 1/2, so it will not do it. 

And lastly, I would like to avoid spending more than 25 bucks on this.

Forgot to mention, my router only take 1/4 shank.

Thx.

[Crax]

http://www.routerbits.com/cgi-routerbits/sr.cgi?1172088756_8575+47

You could use part #3004 or #3008 depending on the width you want.  These template bits have the bearing on the top, you can click the link on that page for flush trim if you want the bearing on the bottom.

[xmenxmen]

How important is the Cutting Diameter? 

[moriartyds]

I'd probably go with the smallest cutting diameter (especially with a 1/4" bit) so that your router won't have to work as hard.

EDIT - I'm thinking of a trackball type template where you're cutting all the way through, and you only need a thin cut around the edge of the template. 

If you're doing like a joystick template where you're clearing a wide area, the larger diameter one might be quicker.

[NiteWalker]

The contrary is true, the larger the bit diameter, the less the bit has to work. A larger bit has more mass and is less likely to chatter or deflect during the cut. The general rule of thumb is to use the largest diameter shortest flute bit that will do the job.

For your application I highly recommend this bit. Enter woodnet10 in the coupon code box for 10% off. That place is great and shipping is free. Whitesides are the best money can buy. You won't regret it.

If you want to save some money, I highly suggest getting a bottom mounted bearing flush trim bit. This one, for instance, is only $17.96 shipped. I have this particular bit and it works great. The only difference is that you put your template on the bottom. If saving pennies is your thing I'd go that way. I use that bit quite often and have been very satisfied with it.

Lastly what router do you have? If it has an optional 1/2" collet available I highly recommend switching to it. 1/4" shank bits can only get to about 3/4" diameter before they start chattering badly. If that's not an option, here's a couple of bits to look at: This is the flush trim bit. Only $12.17 shipped after the discount. A very good bit. Here's the pattern bit (the one with the bearing on top). It's $17.42 shipped. Like I said, if you want to save some pennies I'd get the flush trim bit and simply place the template on the bottom.

One more thing to do for a nice clean cut is to use a jigsaw to trim the workpiece to as close to the original as possible. This leaves less for the bit to have to remove and results in a much smoother cut.

Hope this helps some.

[xmenxmen]

For your application I highly recommend this bit. Enter woodnet10 in the coupon code box for 10% off. That place is great and shipping is free. Whitesides are the best money can buy. You won't regret it.

Thanks for the coupon code.

Lastly what router do you have? If it has an optional 1/2" collet available I highly recommend switching to it. 1/4" shank bits can only get to about 3/4" diameter before they start chattering badly. If that's not an option, here's a couple of bits to look at: This is the flush trim bit. Only $12.17 shipped after the discount. A very good bit. Here's the pattern bit (the one with the bearing on top). It's $17.42 shipped. Like I said, if you want to save some pennies I'd get the flush trim bit and simply place the template on the bottom.

Nice, but my router (Ryobi)only supports 1/4 shank.  For the light work I do with it, it works perfectly.  I will be at least buying the pattern one.  I found it easier to route when the template is on the top especially when it comes to joystick template.  I still might buy both as I can find use for both. 

I will search to see if I can match the ones you listed as the link seems to point to the cart for the 1/4 one.