If you check any woodworker’s arsenal, we can bet that router bits are part of the set. These are tools that are of great help when it comes to making shapes and letters on the wood. It is essential to get the best router bit for cutting letters as, besides the results, it helps you save time and money.
As the pros and hobbyists would tell you, finding the ideal router bit is not a walk in the park. It is easy to end up with a tool meant for the harder materials, and this ends up damaging the material you are working on.
We understand that many individuals face this problem daily, and that is why we have decided to review a sample of router bits which we believe would offer you some decent service.
Let’s check them out.
Comparison Chart
Do you lack time to do comprehensive research on the perfect router bits? If you do, you are likely to find this section useful as it contains router bits that we deem to be the best and brief analysis on each item.
Here they are.
11 Router Bits for Cutting Letters
1. MLCS 8377 Router Bit Set
- Material: Carbide
- Shank: 1/2-inch
- Number of Bits: 15 bits
If you are new to the world of woodworking and you need a budget-friendly router bit set, here is an option that you ought to look at. As you shall see in our brief review below, the low pricing does not translate to inferiority as there is a lot this product has to offer.
Product Description
This professional-grade router bit set features high-quality construction with carbide tips. So, the tools are well-suited for the job plus leave you with a beautiful set.
Then, the bits have an ergonomic design plus are heat-treated for durability due to their resistance to high temperatures.
Since the bits are in different styles and sizes, we can say they are versatile due to their suitability for different projects.
Other Features and Benefits
This set comes in a wooden storage box that makes moving around with the bits to be an effortless affair.
The stability that the bits offer implies that you can expect better results from the product set. You are likely to note the advantage of these bits when tackling complicated projects.
Customer Reviews
- Visually appealing
- Portable
- Built to last
- Single bearing bits
2. EDMBG 24Pc Router Bit Set
- Material: Carbide
- Shank: 1/2-inch
- Shank Type: Straight
- Tool Flute Type: Straight
- Number of Bits: 24 bits
Let’s see what you get from this set.
Product Description
This is a 24-piece router bit set that comprises of Round over bits, Round Nose bits, dovetail bits, Cove bits, among others. So, you have a complete set of tools ready to tackle any kind of project lying ahead of you.
The bits are precision-machined to give them the required sharpness to carve letters on any wooden surface.
An outstanding aspect of these carbide-tipped bits is the amazing heat-resistance they have, and this boosts their durability and reliability.
Other Features and Benefits
This router bit set comes in a sturdy aluminum case to help in safe storage and transportation of the bits whenever the need arises.
The affordability of this set means that you do not have to dig too deep into your pockets to acquire the product.
Lastly, it may be professional-grade, but beginners may also find this set to be handy.
Customer Reviews
- Great price
- Heat-resistant
- Sturdy aluminum case
- Poor warranty policy
3. CMT 800.505.11 Router Bit Set
- Material: Carbide
- Shank: 1/2-inch
- Finish: Orange Grey Metal
- Number of Bits: 13 bits
Here are the specifications and benefits that this product packs.
Product Description
First, the 13-piece set comprises of different types of bits including rabbeting, U-groove, chamfer and U-groove bits, among others. All the bits feature carbide bits that are crucial for their durability.
Then, the tools have excellent edge-retention, and this adds to their overall efficiency. Further, the anti-kickback features of the bits imply that you are likely to have an easy time as you use the item.
The availability of bits of different sizes and shapes means that you have a versatile set in your hands.
Other Features and Benefits
Some of the bits feature a bearing that is meant to make the templating work to be relatively easy. Further, the tools are designed to work with different types of wood, both soft and hard.
Lastly, the bits come in a sturdy case that offers secure storage and easy transportation.
Customer Reviews
- Versatile set
- Anti-kickback features
- Excellent edge-retention
- Expensive
4. Kowood 24-Piece Router Bit Set
- Material: Alloy blade
- Shank: 1/4-inch
- Tool Flute Type: Straight
- Number of Bits: 24 bits
Product Description
Let’s start with the construction whereby the alloy blade and hardened steel board makes the bits well-suited to withstand heavy-duty applications and makes them durable too.
Next is the anti-kickback design that allows for safe installation. Besides that, the ¼” shank bits are safer to use due to the stability they offer and minimal vibration.
We liked the versatility that these bits offer and can work with different types of woods.
Other Features and Benefits
The set comes with a wooden case for easy storage and organization. Further, it will come in handy when you need to move the tools around.
We cannot leave out the razor-sharp edges that deliver the smooth cuts you have been aiming for. Additionally, there are three standard shear angles that are designed to help in chip clearance.
Lastly, in case of any issues, there is a competent customer support team that you can contact.
Customer Reviews
- Safe to use
- Versatile
- Excellent customer support
- Not durable
5. Freud 91-100 Router Bit Set
- Material: Blend
- Shank: 1/2-inch
- Shank Type: Straight
- Cutting Angle String: 90 Degrees
- Number of Bits: 13 bits
Is it worth the investment? Let’s see.
Product Description
First, the bits are designed to work with all types of wood including softwood, hardwood and plywood. Then, the bits have opposing shear angles that help in delivering a smooth and flawless finish. This saves you time as you do not have to smooth the cuts anymore.
The next aspect is that the bits are easy to use and enable you to finish the job in the shortest time possible.
We also liked the ergonomic design that prevents the accumulation of pitch.
Other Features and Benefits
To add to the wide use of the bits, you can use them on hand-held and table-mounted portable routers.
Lastly, the bits come in a shadow box case that you mount on the bench or hang on the wall to keep the bits organized and safe.
Customer Reviews
- Easy to use
- Ergonomic design
- Works on all types of wood
- Unclear instruction manual
6. Freud CNC Router Bit Set
- Material: Blend
- Shank: 1/4-inch
- Number of Bits: 8 bits
Check out what this product has to offer.
Product Description
First, the V-groove bits feature a steep taper that helps in delivering sharp and deep grooves. Then, there are the up and down spiral bits that are useful if you are looking for clean cuts in the shortest time possible. Let’s not forget the ball nose bits that give us deep and clean grooves.
All the router bits are carbide-tipped, and this helps in enhancing their useful life.
When it comes to the application and performance, you ought to be pleased with how the bits can cut effortlessly through different materials such as hardwood, softwood and plywood.
Further, the bits are well-suited for lettering, engraving and sign-making on the different materials we mentioned above.
Other Features and Benefits
A notable aspect of these bits is the heat and wear-resistance, and this helps in boosting their durability.
Also worth mentioning is that the bits allow you to work with both table-mounted and hand-held routers comfortably.
Customer Reviews
- Deliver clean cuts
- Professional-grade tools
- Versatile
- Expensive
7. Hiltex 10100 15-Piece Tungsten Carbide Router Bits
- Material: Carbide, Alloy Steel
- Shank: 1/4-inch
- Shank Type: Round
- Tool Flute Type: Straight
- Cutting Angle String: 45 Degrees
- Number of Bits: 15 bits
Check out our brief review of the bits and see if they are worth investing in.
Product Description
First, the bits are constructed out of Tungsten carbide steel which gives them excellent heat-resistance. Further, they deliver clean and precise cuts whenever they are used for lettering.
Another thing worth mentioning is that main construction features hardened alloy steel with a powder coating finish which is vital for their durability.
Besides lettering, these bits are also ideal for edging, veining and trimming in any woodworking project ahead of you. Keep in mind that both novices and pros would be comfortable with this particular set of tools.
Other Features and Benefits
The bits are enclosed in a bearing roller and also feature a ¾” universal shank to make them compatible with any type of router.
Last but not least, the bits come in a sturdy case to keep them organized and for transportation.
Customer Reviews
- Versatile
- Designed to operate smoothly
- Durable design
- Bits have a habit of getting jammed during trimming.
8. Rockler 3-Piece Router Bit Set
- Material: Carbide
- Shank: 1/4-inch
- Number of Bits: 3 bits
When we look at the flatter bottom of these bits as compared to other router bits, we could conclude that they do a better job when used for sign-making. Besides that, these tools are also designed for engraving and lettering.
Find out more in our brief review below.
Product Description
The first thing to talk about is the high-quality construction of Rockler router bits. They are constructed out of ISO certified K10 and K20 carbide to deliver the cleanest cuts.
Let’s explain the importance of the flatter bottoms. They ensure that there are no peaks in the routed letters, and this is a feature that is highly appreciated by professional craftsmen.
With the precise balancing and ergonomic design, you can expect the chip-ejection to be outstanding.
Other Features and Benefits
The Rockler bits are sharpened using a 600-800 grit diamond wheel, and this adds to their smoothness of operation.
One last thing is that the set comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Customer Reviews
- Easy to sharpen
- High-quality construction
- Versatile
- Could have had a user manual
9. ABN 24-Piece Tungsten Carbide Router Bit Set
- Material: Metal
- Shank: 1/4-inch
- Number of Bits: 24 bits
Product Description
The first interesting aspect about these bits is their ease of use. This implies that the tools are ideal for professional use while beginners would be comfortable with them too.
Next up is the construction that is engineered towards the longevity of the bits. This is due to the tungsten carbide cutting edges that deliver sharp and precise cuts.
We liked the universal aspect of the ¼” shank bits since they are designed to fit all ¼” router shanks.
Other Features and Benefits
As a 24-piece router bit set, it is unlikely that you will need to purchase any additional tools for the job, and this makes the set very cost-effective.
Lastly, the set comes in a wooden storage case for safe and secure storage plus to give you convenient access to the bits when needed.
Customer Reviews
- Built to last
- Easy to use
- Secure wooden storage case
- Poor edge-retention
10. FivePears 12-Piece Tungsten Carbide Router Bits
- Material: Carbide
- Shank: 1/2-inch
- Shank Type: Straight
- Tool Flute Type: Straight
- Number of Bits: 12 bits
Here are more specifications about the router bit set.
Product Description
First, the C3 Tungsten carbide blade is vital in ensuring that the bits deliver a precise and clean cut. Additionally, there is 45# carbon steel material that helps in enhancing the product’s durability.
Next, this is a router bit set that you can use for different purposes. The bits are suited for woodworking, veining, trimming, edging, and grooving. On top of that, carpenters and DIYers could also find these bits to be useful.
Another thing is that the bits can work with different types of materials, including softwood, hardwood, and MDF board, among others.
Other Features and Benefits
The set comes in a wooden case which carries several advantages. First, it provides secure storage for the tools where you can easily access them. Then, the case will come in handy if you need to transport the bits to a different location.
Lastly, the 100% satisfaction guarantee on the product implies that the manufacturer is confident in their product to give you the quality that you deserve.
Customer Reviews
- Multi-purpose bits
- Works on different materials
- Fair pricing
- Flimsy wooden case
11. SILIVN CNC Wood Carving Router Bit
- Material: Tungsten Steel
- Shank: 1/4-inch
- Tool Flute Type: Straight
- Number of Bits: 1 bit
Product Description
First, the bits are constructed out of sturdy tungsten steel and bring out better drilling results as compared to standard carbide steel. Further, the durability that this material offers is out of this world.
The next thing to discuss is the sharp edge that is highly precise and allows for smoother cutting operation through the material. Additionally, the bits are highly efficient and make the engraving process to be relatively fast.
We liked the versatility of the bits such that you can use them in engraving different materials including wood panels, stainless steel, and plastic, among other materials.
Other Features and Benefits
With the 18-month warranty, you are assured that you are not making any losses by investing in this router bit set.
And if you come across anything of concern, there is a reliable customer support team that is always ready to respond to your queries.
Customer Reviews
- Relatively durable
- Has an 18-month warranty
- Works on different materials
- Dulls fast
The Buying Guide to High-Quality Router Bits for Cutting Letters
In your search for the perfect router bit for lettering, you are likely to come across many different products, and this will complicate your search further. So, to simplify things, you have to pay attention to several factors.
Let’s see what they are.
I)The Tips
It is highly unlikely that you may ever come across that does not require the router bits to be carbide tipped. This is because this material is a guarantee that the tool will be useful to you for the longest duration possible. After all, nobody wants a product that will need replacing a few weeks after acquisition.
Besides that, carbide helps in the delivery of clean and precise cuts as the project requires.
II) Compatibility
It is important that the router bit you acquire matches with the woodworking project ahead of you. Different tasks call for different bits of different sizes, and you need to get this aspect right.
Since beginners are likely to find it challenging to find the right router bit for the job, we recommend that you purchase drill bit sets rather than buying individual items. This would save you time and money since purchasing a collective set is likely to cost less.
III) Anti-Kickback Technology
Lettering is a skill that requires the highest level of precision to get the best results. This explains the emphasis on router bits that offer relative stability as you continue using them.
So, count yourself lucky if you land router bits with anti-kickback technology as it would help you attain this precision.
IV) The Material you are working on
The material that you will be cutting is another factor to think about. For instance, if you intend to letter softwood, plywood or hardwood, consider going for router bits with tungsten carbide tips as they remain sharp for longer.
Should you end up with steel bits, be prepared to sharpen the tool after every use.
V) V Grooves
A V groove router bit would be a handy addition to your tool collection as a woodworker due to the flexibility it offers. With this type of bits, you can create many letter shapes and sizes plus you can try out other fonts too.
To make the lettering process to be more adventurous, go for a router bit with a round nose. If you balance these two aspects well, you may turn out to be one of the most outstanding craftsmen around.
VI) The Cutting Edge
The quality of the cutting edge determines how fast you get the job done plus how good the project ends up looking. So, look out for router bits whose edges are either made of carbide or high-speed steel since both are durable and more efficient.
Keep in mind that carbide has a longer lifespan and holds its edge for longer as compared to steel.
VII) A Flute Section
Contrary to what you may have thought, the flute section is an essential aspect of a router bit as it has an impact on the speed and quality of the cut delivered.
A single flute bit does the job fast, but you may not be very impressed with the quality it delivers. As for the two-flute design, it may be slower, but it delivers a better finish since it has more flutes.
VIII) Table-mounted or Freehand Routing
The router bit’s diameter will tell you whether it is suited for freehand routing or table-mounting. For freehand lettering, the smaller shank diameter would be perfect for the bit, and the dimensions ought to range between ½ or ¼-inches.
Methods to Make Lettering
In this section, we will discuss the two types of lettering, and once you know more about the two methods, you can decide which one works for you.
1.Manual Lettering
Due to the many technological advancements happening around us, it is easy to see why many individuals consider this method to be somewhat old school.
However, when it comes to lettering, the use of small letters could be challenging, and only experienced individuals would be comfortable with them. This is where this method could come in handy.
2. CNC Routing
We already mentioned technology, and this is where CNC (Computer Numeric Control) comes in. The method picks a lot of its basics from mechanical engineering, and it makes the lettering process to be quite fast.
So, look at both methods keenly and decide which one would work best for you.
FAQs on Router Bits for Cutting Letters
As we researched the best router bit for cutting letters, there are numerous queries that we faced. We have decided to include them in this article in the hope that they boost your knowledge on this topic.
Q: Which router bit would be the best for making signs on wood?
A: For sign-making, V groove or Sign lettering router bits would be good picks. For instance, if you intend to cut 90-degree V grooves on the wood, you will need 90 V Groove bits for the job.
Q: What factors should I consider as I look for the ideal lettering router bit?
A: Some of the factors to consider in your search for the perfect item include the quality of the tips, suitability for the project, the quality of the cutting edge, the flute section, and the material you are working on, among others.
If you get the above aspects right, you will be on the right track towards getting a high-quality router bit for cutting letters.
Q: Between a spiral bit and a standard straight bit, which option should I go for?
A: It all depends on the nature of the surface that you are working on. If you are dealing with a smooth surface, spiral bits would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, straight bits would give a decent performance on a stock surface.
Q: What’s a profile router bit?
A: These are unique bits that can be used to create decorative edges on workpieces. Basically, these bits are attached to compatible routers and then moved alongside the outer edge making contoured cuts. You’ll generally find them being used in light manufacturing as well as woodworking.
The Best Overall
In the end, the product that we felt stood out from the rest is the MLCS 8377 Router Bit Set. The set is budget-friendly while the bits feature a high-quality construction to ensure that they remain useful for the longest time possible.
Then, you get a sturdy case that you could use for safely keeping the tools away, and you could use it for transportation too.
Wrapping It Up
We hope that our expert article on router bits for cutting letters has touched on everything necessary about the tool. A router bit is a useful tool that any woodworker would appreciate having in their storage chest.
In addition to the high-quality products that we have reviewed, we have also included a buying guide pointing out the things to look at in a router bit. With all that information, you should be better placed to landing the perfect product that would meet all your preferences.