Reducing tearout from router plane.

[AESamuel]

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone has any tips for reducing tearout while using a router plane, particularly in soft woods? I've read that the spear point blades can help but I only have straight blades.

Thanks!

 

[Derek Cohen (Perth Oz)]

Read the grain direction. Work across the grain if you can. If working with the grain, and this is cranky, knife the side wall deeply.

I dislike the spear point blades. Don't see the point. I believe that their intended use is are for finishing.

Regards from Perth

Derek

 

[Trafalgar]

The spear point blades are for working the undercut in a dovetail housing, where the floor has to be clean and smooth for the joint to work.

 

[Adam W.]

And for inlay.

 

[Trafalgar]

In a shallow housing or groove you have to be careful not to undercut the edge too much (or at all) or it can crumble. It's easy to get carried away with this cutter and start jabbing the walls of the housing or groove you're cutting.