Thread: router guide bushings

Most of the work I do with these is inlay and pattern work. I only use solid carbide spiral bits for this type of work due to the much finer finish that is achieved, particularly if a downcut bit is used. Consequently the largest diameter bit I am able to use is 1/2". Yes you can get larger, and metric bits, in carbide tipped straight bits, but they are not as suitable for the type of work I do. If you want to use your router with guides to hollow bowls and trays that's a different matter.

The Carb-I-Tool and Carbatec bushing sets have a lot of the same sizes, a 1-3/8" being common to them as the largest size. The Carbatec set has 8 guides and the Carbi-I-Tool set has 9. Both sets sell for the same money so I guess it's horses for courses.