The 7 Best Trim Router Bits
This wiki has been updated 21 times since it was first published in February of 2019. Whether you’re a hobbyist woodworker or a professional carpenter, you likely reach for a trim router bit on many of your projects. These small, but essential, tools can help you fine-tune the edges of furniture, boxes, shelving, and more, for an impeccably smooth finish. The choices on our list come in a variety of materials and sizes, so you’re sure to find the right one for your needs. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Freud 42-114
2. Amana Tool 47126
3. CMT Flush
Editor's Notes
April 28, 2019:
Trim router bits are used to make the edge of one material flush with that of another. They’re guided with the help of a built-in pilot bearing that can be situated at the top or bottom. Our list features both of these types of configurations. There’s also the CMT Flush, which cleverly incorporates a bearing on each end, which can make your job easier by not having to reposition your stock or your router, accordingly.
Another factor to consider is flute count. In general, bits with more flutes have stronger cores. The durable Bosch model on our list incorporates three of them, and it works like a pro on a range of materials. If you’re working with softer wood, we included plenty of reliable, two-fluted choices, including the heat-forged Freud 42-114 and the rugged Amana Tool 47126.
For woodworking safety, always wear eye and ear protection, as well as a dust mask. Keep your hands, body, clothes, and hair away from the blades, and be sure to disconnect the power when you're making adjustments to your machine, and keep it unplugged when it's not in use.
4. Bosch 85216M
5. Whiteside UDFT5152
6. Yonico 14130
7. Yonico 16159q
Karen Bennett lives in Chicago with her family, and when she’s not writing, she can usually be found practicing yoga or cheering on her kids at soccer games. She holds a master’s degree in journalism and a bachelor’s in English, and her writing has been published in various local newspapers, as well as “The Cheat Sheet,” “Illinois Legal Times,” and “USA Today.” She has also written search engine news page headlines and worked as a product manager for a digital marketing company. Her expertise is in literature, nonfiction, textbooks, home products, kids' games and toys, hardware, teaching accessories, and art materials.