RADIAL GRIND LASTS LONGER

STRAIGHT GRIND BIT . CUTS FAST AND LEAVES A CLEAN EDGE

everyday bits and how to get the best results.

the straight story on

Straight Bits

Learn how to choose the best of these

A straight bit is a straight bit, right? While it may seem as if any straight bit will do the job, it pays to take a closer look and choose the bit that will give you the best results. So here are a few features and characteristics to learn about that affect the performance of the bit.

SELECTING A BIT

The first thing to consider when selecting a bit is the number of CLit-ting edges, or flutes. Straight bits come with either one or two flutes. Single flute bits are fast-cLitting, but are prone to chipout. When it comes right down to it, the quality

of CLit matters more to me than speed. So I stick with bits that have two cutting edges.

Grind of the Bit. The second thing to look at on a straight bit is the type of cutting edge. For my money, I choose carbide bits over high-speed steel bits every time. Even though they cost a bit more, carbide bits stay sharp longer and cut cleaner, especially in plywood.

Speaking of carbide, bits are made with either "straight" or "radial" ground carbide edges. In straight-ground bits, the carbide behind the cutting edge is flat, as in the left drawing below. Bit makers

A All-Purpose Bit.

A heavy-duty ¹h"-dia. straight bit (with Y/ shank) will tackle most dado and grooving tasks.