Router bits and materials – what should you pay attention to?


Router bits and materials – what should you pay attention to?


Milling drill bits are an essential tool for both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts when it comes to working with wood, metal or plastic. The right milling drill bit can make the difference between a clean, precise result and an uneven cut that requires additional finishing. However, with the wide range of types, materials and sizes on the market, it can be difficult to make the right choice.
In this article, we look at the key factors you should consider before buying a milling drill bit and provide an overview of different types and brands to help you find the set that best suits your needs.
The article presents a wide selection of milling drill bits that cover various applications, materials and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of features and differences so that you can choose the drill bit that best suits your project. The information is based on publicly available product descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and has been summarised to provide a clear and practical basis for comparison.
Factors to consider when buying milling drill bits
When choosing a milling drill bit, it is important to consider the material, shape, shank type and area of application. Here are some of the most important points to keep in mind.
1. Material and coating
Milling drill bits are typically made from HSS (High Speed Steel), carbide or with coatings such as titanium nitride (TiN). HSS is suitable for wood and soft metals, while carbide bits can handle harder materials such as stainless steel and composites. Coatings reduce friction and extend service life.
2. Shank type and compatibility
Make sure the shank fits your milling machine. The most common types are cylindrical and hexagonal shanks. A proper fit ensures stability during work and reduces the risk of vibrations that can affect precision.
3. Cutting angle and shape
The cutting angle and shape of the drill tip have a major impact on the result. Spiral bits remove material quickly and efficiently, while flat cutters produce a smooth surface. For precision work in wood, you can choose bits with a centring tip that ensures accurate positioning.
4. Area of application
Consider which material you will mainly be working with. Wood requires bits with sharp edges and good chip removal, while metal demands high heat resistance. For plastic and composite materials, choose bits that minimise melting and fraying.
5. Price and quality
The price depends on material, precision and durability. A high-quality set can be a better investment in the long run, especially if you work frequently. For occasional use, a more affordable set may be sufficient.
Products in focus

The CMT router table without cabinet is a freestanding workbench designed for use with handheld routers. The table provides a stable and secure work surface where precision and control are paramount.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction offers both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing work.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on solid steel legs that ensure stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands firmly yet can be moved when needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of handheld routers. The table can be used with routers up to 98 mm in diameter, offering great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Solid steel legs and a sturdy MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible application: Suitable for most handheld routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop offers plenty of space for routing work.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other handheld routers
- Max. cutter diameter: 98 mm

The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and even edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, making it ideal for edge levelling.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, allowing for a stable and controlled working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve a consistent result, even when working with delicate materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise guidance and efficient dust extraction during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Enables precise edge levelling.
- Compatibility: Suitable for Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Supplied guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust extraction: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Supplied with guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Supplied with guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Supplied with guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard packaging

The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop model designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows precise and safe work with wooden workpieces. The large work surface makes it suitable for both smaller and larger projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a table size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection port allows the attachment of a dust extractor for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs provide a solid and vibration-free worktable.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Worktable with 610 × 810 mm provides plenty of space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction port: Connector with a diameter of 65–76 mm for effective dust extraction.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Option to connect a dust extractor
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy at 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Option to connect a dust extractor
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy at 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Option to connect a dust extractor
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy at 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Table width: 610 mm
- Table length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection port diameter: 65–76 mm

The CMT router table with cabinet is a professional work table designed for mounting hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material that is resistant to warping and more durable than conventional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium tracks that allow precise adjustment of the fence. A special tool system allows tool changes from above without having to dismantle the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used as both a fixed and a pivoting fence. It can be quickly adjusted with a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks made of hard plastic for additional support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust housing results in a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to various work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and torsional rigidity.
- Integrated aluminium tracks: Allow precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change the router bit from above without dismantling the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as a fixed or pivoting fence with quick clamping mechanism.
- Robust housing: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction made of phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The overall weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction made of phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The overall weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction made of phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The overall weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router table with cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Housing: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (housing): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet

The Festool Router Bit Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and enables a variety of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge router bits and groove router bits to profile router bits, chamfer router bits, and dovetail router bits, making the set suitable for fine work, joints, and decorative profiles. Each router bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router bit box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep the equipment organised during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with an 8 mm collet.
- Carbide router bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the router bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers groove, edge, and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router bit, dowel drill, groove router bit, profile router bit, chamfer router bit, slot cutter, and dovetail router bit
Product descriptions

The CMT router table without cabinet is a freestanding workbench designed for use with handheld routers. The table provides a stable and secure work surface where precision and control are paramount.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminate surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction offers both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for various types of routing work.
The workbench has a height of 90 cm and stands on solid steel legs that ensure stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands firmly yet can be moved when needed.
The top is prepared for the CMT router CMT7E but can be adapted to most brands and models of handheld routers. The table can be used with routers up to 98 mm in diameter, offering great flexibility in work.
- Stable construction: Solid steel legs and a sturdy MDF laminate top provide a robust workbench.
- Flexible application: Suitable for most handheld routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting CMT’s own router model.
- Comfortable working height: 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large work surface: 80 × 60 cm tabletop offers plenty of space for routing work.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat work surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage
- Requires adjustment when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Tabletop: MDF with laminate surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other handheld routers
- Max. cutter diameter: 98 mm

The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and even edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-accuracy surface processing, making it ideal for edge levelling.
The router table is compatible with the Festool edge routers MFK 700 and OFK 700, allowing for a stable and controlled working process. The combination of router table and router makes it easier to achieve a consistent result, even when working with delicate materials.
The set comes with a guide plate and dust hood, which contribute to precise guidance and efficient dust extraction during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Enables precise edge levelling.
- Compatibility: Suitable for Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: Supplied guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust extraction: Dust hood reduces dust during work.
- Festool quality: Designed for professional use and precision.
Pros and cons
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Supplied with guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Supplied with guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without additional accessories beyond those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Supplied with guide plate and dust hood
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without additional accessories beyond those specified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Model: FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set
- Item number (SKU): 495165
- Tilt: 1.5°
- Compatibility: MFK/OFK 700 edge routers
- Scope of delivery: Guide plate, dust hood, supplied in cardboard packaging

The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a benchtop model designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid work surface during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows precise and safe work with wooden workpieces. The large work surface makes it suitable for both smaller and larger projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a table size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for the workpieces. The 65–76 mm connection port allows the attachment of a dust extractor for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs provide a solid and vibration-free worktable.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: Worktable with 610 × 810 mm provides plenty of space for various workpieces.
- Ergonomic height: 860 mm working height for comfortable operation.
- Dust extraction port: Connector with a diameter of 65–76 mm for effective dust extraction.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Option to connect a dust extractor
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy at 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Option to connect a dust extractor
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy at 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many different routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Option to connect a dust extractor
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy at 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Fence width: 150 mm
- Fence length: 457 mm
- Table width: 610 mm
- Table length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection port diameter: 65–76 mm

The CMT router table with cabinet is a professional work table designed for mounting hand routers. The table is constructed to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top plate is made of 12 mm phenol, a material that is resistant to warping and more durable than conventional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm as well as two integrated aluminium tracks that allow precise adjustment of the fence. A special tool system allows tool changes from above without having to dismantle the table.
The fence is made of extruded aluminium and can be used as both a fixed and a pivoting fence. It can be quickly adjusted with a clamping system and can be supplemented with centre blocks made of hard plastic for additional support.
The cabinet section is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of phenol plate, aluminium fence and robust housing results in a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to various work tasks.
- Phenol top plate: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and torsional rigidity.
- Integrated aluminium tracks: Allow precise adjustment of the fence position.
- Easy tool change: Change the router bit from above without dismantling the table.
- Adjustable fence system: Can be used as a fixed or pivoting fence with quick clamping mechanism.
- Robust housing: 20 mm melamine construction with two doors for storage.
Pros and cons
- Stable and durable construction made of phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The overall weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros and cons
Pros
- Stable and durable construction made of phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The overall weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Pros
- Stable and durable construction made of phenol and melamine
- Precise adjustment options with aluminium tracks
- Easy access for tool changes from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The overall weight makes the table less mobile
- Requires assembly upon delivery
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Product name: Router table with cabinet
- Item number (SKU): 999.500.01
- Top plate: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Fence: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Housing: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top plate): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (fence): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (housing): approx. 32.5 kg
- Overall construction: Table, fence system and cabinet

The Festool Router Bit Box-OF HW S8 Mix contains ten different router bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and enables a variety of routing tasks in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge router bits and groove router bits to profile router bits, chamfer router bits, and dovetail router bits, making the set suitable for fine work, joints, and decorative profiles. Each router bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure long life and precise cutting performance.
The router bit box comes in a robust storage case that protects the bits and makes it easy to keep the equipment organised during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different router bits for versatile tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with an 8 mm collet.
- Carbide router bits (HW): Provides high cutting performance and long durability.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the router bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers groove, edge, and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Pros
- Wide selection of router bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Comes in a solid storage box
Cons
- Not compatible with routers with shank diameters other than 8 mm
- Contents may vary depending on configuration
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Festool
- Product name: Box-OF HW S8 Mix
- Item number (SKU): 498979
- Number of router bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge router bit, dowel drill, groove router bit, profile router bit, chamfer router bit, slot cutter, and dovetail router bit
Different types of milling drill bits
There are many types of milling drill bits, each designed for specific tasks and materials. Knowing the difference makes it easier to choose the right tool for the job.
1. Spiral milling drill bits
Spiral milling drill bits are the most common and are used for both wood and metal. They remove material efficiently and produce an even surface. They are available in different spiral angles, which affect how quickly chips are removed.
2. Edge cutters
Edge cutters are used to shape and round edges on wooden workpieces. They are available in many profiles – e.g. rounding, rebate or groove – and are ideal for furniture making and decorative details.
3. Groove cutters
Groove cutters are designed for cutting grooves and slots in wood or plastic. They are often used for joints, e.g. for tenons or battens, and allow precise, straight cuts.
4. Template cutters
Template cutters are used when you need to follow a template or contour. They are often used in combination with a guide bush and are popular for repeated cut-outs of the same shape.
5. Metal milling drill bits
These bits are made of carbide or HSS with a coating that withstands high temperatures. They are used for steel, aluminium and other metals where precision and wear resistance are crucial.
Different brands of milling drill bits
The market for milling drill bits offers many manufacturers, each with their own strengths and specialities.
Bosch
Bosch offers a wide range of milling drill bits for both professional users and DIY enthusiasts. Their bits are known for high quality, precision and durability, covering everything from woodworking to metal milling.
Makita
Makita produces robust milling drill bits that fit both their own machines and other brands. They are popular for their reliability and good value for money.
Dewalt
Dewalt focuses on professional solutions and provides milling drill bits with high precision and wear resistance. Their bits are often optimised for intensive use and demanding materials.
CMT
CMT is known for its specialist bits for woodworking. The orange bits are made of carbide and deliver sharp, clean cuts – ideal for furniture production and fine joinery work.
Festool
Festool offers premium milling drill bits designed for maximum precision and compatibility with their advanced milling machines. They are aimed primarily at professional tradespeople and demanding projects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a milling drill bit and a normal drill bit?
A milling drill bit is designed to remove material laterally and shape the workpiece, while a normal drill bit is mainly used for drilling holes. Milling drill bits are typically used in a router or CNC machine.
How do I know which milling drill bit to use?
That depends on the material and the desired shape. For wood, you can use edge or groove cutters, while metal requires carbide bits. Always read the manufacturer's recommendations to make the right choice.
How do I maintain my milling drill bits?
Clean the bits after use and store them in a dry place. Avoid overheating during milling, as this can dull the cutting edges. Dull bits can often be resharpened to extend their service life.
Can I use the same milling drill bits for different materials?
Some bits can be used for multiple materials, but it is best to choose bits specifically designed for the material you are working with. This ensures better results and longer life.
How long does a milling drill bit last?
The lifespan depends on quality, use and maintenance. High-quality coated bits can last for many years with proper use, while cheaper models wear out more quickly.










