Router Bits How To
The Basics
- Feed material against the rotation of the router bit
- Take appropriate precautions to ensure safe operation of handheld router or router table
- Take care when working with router bits at slow speeds to be sure the material you’re working on is secure
IT'S ALL IN THE TECHNIQUE
WOOD
If using an adjustable router, adjust the speed depending on the hardness of the wood; the harder the wood, the slower the speed. Always feed with the grain of the wood. Going against the grain will cause the wood to chip.
SOLID SURFACE
A variable speed router running at a slow speed (10,000 RPM +/-) is best for this material also known as Corian, Surell, and others. Cutting too fast might cause the edge to ripple. If you’ve never tackled this stuff before, practice on a scrap piece first!
QUARTZ, SOAPSTONE, CULTURED MARBLE
For best results, use a variable speed router set to the slowest speed. Make narrow passes – about four to five when you would normally take one on a piece of wood. When using a router at slow speeds, be sure the work piece is secure.
ROUTER BIT MAINTENANCE
Remember that sharper bits cut better. Router Bits have an intricate cutting edge making them susceptible to chipping. Store your Bad Dog Router Bits in the custom designed carrying box. An occasional coating of light oil will prevent the bits from rusting. Carefully remove rust with steel wool.
Written by Joseph Strong on 5th May 2026 I’m JJ Strong, a mechanical engineer and third-generation tool designer at Bad Dog Tools, our American-made, family-run company built on durability and innovation. I grew up hauling booths and talking tools at trade shows before I could even drive. Now I design and build and improve our next generation of lifetime-guaranteed tools - our custom induction brazing system to our precision sharpening technology. On weekends, you’ll find me restoring my ’86 Land Rover Defender or ’54 Jaguar XK120 and seeing just how much I can build (or break) with Bad Dog Tools.