How to Use a Router Correctly

A wood router is one of the most versatile tools in woodworking — it shapes edges, cuts grooves, creates joinery, and adds decorative profiles that transform plain lumber into finished furniture. Here's how to use a router correctly for clean, professional results.

What Is a Router Used For?

• Edge profiling: Roundovers, chamfers, ogees, and decorative edges
• Dadoes and grooves: Channels for shelves, drawer bottoms, and panels
• Rabbets: Stepped cuts along edges for joinery
• Template routing: Cutting identical shapes using a guide bushing
• Inlays and mortises: Recesses for hardware and decorative inlays

Recommended Router

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Router (DCW600B) is a brushless cordless router — no cord to manage, consistent speed under load, and compatible with the DEWALT 20V battery system. Tool only. Check it on Amazon →

Choosing the Right Router Bit

Router bits come in hundreds of profiles. Common types:

• Roundover bit: Creates a smooth rounded edge — most popular for furniture
• Chamfer bit: Creates a 45° angled edge
• Straight bit: Cuts flat-bottomed grooves and dadoes
• Flush trim bit: Trims one piece flush with another using a bearing guide
• Cove bit: Creates a concave profile
• Rabbet bit: Cuts a stepped recess along an edge

The Router Bits Set of 15 Pieces (1/4" Shank) covers the most common profiles for beginners and intermediate woodworkers. Check it on Amazon →

Installing a Router Bit

1. Unplug the router or remove the battery.
2. Press the spindle lock button (if equipped) or use two wrenches to hold the collet.
3. Insert the bit shank fully into the collet, then pull back about 1/8" — this prevents the bit from bottoming out.
4. Tighten the collet nut firmly.

Setting the Cutting Depth

1. Loosen the depth adjustment ring.
2. Lower the router until the bit touches the workpiece surface.
3. Set your desired depth — for most operations, take multiple shallow passes rather than one deep cut.
4. Lock the depth ring.

Rule of thumb: Never remove more than 1/4" of material per pass. For deeper cuts, make multiple passes.

Router Direction: Which Way to Move

This is critical for clean cuts and control:

• Climb cutting (wrong direction): Moving with the bit rotation — the router pulls itself forward aggressively. Dangerous for beginners.
• Conventional routing (correct): Move the router so the bit rotation pushes against your direction of travel. For outside edges, move left to right (counterclockwise around the workpiece).

Step-by-Step: Routing an Edge Profile

1. Clamp the workpiece securely to the bench.
2. Install the correct bit and set depth.
3. Put on safety goggles and hearing protection. DEWALT Goggles → | HANDLANDY Gloves →
4. Start the router and let it reach full speed before touching the wood.
5. Place the base on the workpiece edge and move in the correct direction (left to right on outside edges).
6. Move at a steady pace — too slow burns the wood; too fast gives a rough cut.
7. For deep profiles, make 2–3 passes, increasing depth each time.

Safety Tips

• Always wear goggles and hearing protection — routers are extremely loud and throw chips
• Always clamp the workpiece — never hold it freehand
• Never change bits with the router plugged in or battery installed
• Keep both hands on the router handles at all times
• Start the router before touching the workpiece

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Moving in the wrong direction (climb cutting)
• Taking too deep a cut in one pass
• Not clamping the workpiece
• Moving too slowly (burns the wood)
• Not letting the router reach full speed before cutting