Milling cutters and applications – find the right tool
Milling cutters and applications – find the right tool
Milling cutters are indispensable both in professional workshops and for DIY projects, where precision and finish are essential. Whether you work with wood, metal or plastic, there is a milling cutter suitable for your task. However, the numerous types and sizes can make it difficult to choose the right tool.
In this article, you will find an overview of the most important factors to consider when choosing a milling cutter, as well as an introduction to the different types and brands that can help you find the best option for your project.
The article presents a wide range of milling cutters that cover different materials, uses and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of functions and features so that you can more easily evaluate which types best suit your needs. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and distributors and is summarised to provide a clear and comparable picture.
Factors to consider when buying milling cutters
When choosing a milling cutter, it is important to consider both the material you will be working on and the desired precision. Here are some of the most important factors to take into account.
1. Material and coating
Milling cutters are usually made of HSS (High Speed Steel), carbide or with coatings such as titanium or cobalt. HSS cutters are suitable for wood and softer metals, while carbide cutters can process harder materials and have a longer lifespan. Coatings reduce heat generation and wear, providing smoother milling.
2. Shank type and compatibility
Make sure the shank fits your milling or drilling machine. The most common types are cylindrical and hexagonal shanks. A proper fit ensures stability and precision during work.
3. Cutting angle and geometry
The cutting angle influences how aggressively the cutter removes material. A small angle provides a smoother surface, while a larger angle removes material faster. Choose the geometry depending on whether you want fast processing or a fine finish.
4. Diameter and length
Milling cutters are available in many sizes. Small diameters are used for detailed cuts, while larger cutters are suitable for rougher processing. The length affects the working depth – but remember that longer cutters may be more prone to vibration.
5. Price and quality
The price depends on the material, precision and brand. For hobby use, a mid-range set may be sufficient, while professionals should invest in high-quality cutters with high wear resistance and precision. Consider how often you use the tool and choose accordingly.
Products in focus
The CMT router table without cabinet is a standalone work table developed for use with handheld routers. The table offers a stable and safe working surface where precision and control are the focus.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminated surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for different types of routing work.
The work table has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, which ensure stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly but can be moved as needed.
The tabletop is prepared for the CMT CMT7E router but can be adapted for 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: Fixed steel legs and a solid laminated MDF plate provide a robust work table.
- Flexible use: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting the CMT router model.
- Comfortable working height: The 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large working surface: The 80 × 60 cm tabletop offers generous space for routing work.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat working surface
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage space
- Requires adaptation 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 working surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage space
- Requires adaptation when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat working surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage space
- Requires adaptation when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Top: MDF with laminated surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other handheld routers
- Maximum router diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and uniform edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-precision surface processing, making it ideal for routing edges at the same level.
The router table is compatible with Festool MFK 700 and OFK 700 edge routers, providing a stable and controlled workflow. The combination of the router table and router facilitates achieving a uniform result, even when working with sensitive materials.
The set is delivered with a guide plate and a dust cover, which contribute to precise guidance and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise edge routing at the same level.
- Compatibility: Suitable for Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: The included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: The dust cover 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
- Guide plate and dust cover included
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without accessories other than those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Guide plate and dust cover included
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without accessories other than those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Guide plate and dust cover included
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without accessories other than 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
- Delivery contents: Guide plate, dust cover, delivered in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a bench-type router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid working base during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows precise and safe work with wooden pieces. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and larger projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a worktable size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for pieces. The 65–76 mm connection allows attachment to a dust extraction system for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free worktable.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: The 610 × 810 mm table provides generous space for various pieces.
- Ergonomic height: Working height of 860 mm for comfortable operation.
- Extraction connection: Connection with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many types of routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Possibility to connect to an extraction system
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy, with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many types of routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Possibility to connect to an extraction system
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy, with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many types of routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Possibility to connect to an extraction system
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy, with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Guide width: 150 mm
- Guide length: 457 mm
- Worktable width: 610 mm
- Worktable length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT router table with cabinet is a professional work table designed for mounting handheld routers. The table is built to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to torsion and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm, as well as two integrated aluminium scales that allow precise adjustment of the side guide. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed from above without dismantling the table.
The side guide is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as fixed and as pivoting. It adjusts quickly using a clamping system and can be supplemented with central blocks made of hard plastic for additional support.
The cabinet part is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of the phenolic plate, aluminium guide and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenolic top: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and torsion resistance.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the side guide position.
- Easy tool change: Change the router bit from above without dismantling the table.
- Adjustable side system: Can be used as fixed or pivoting, with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 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 scales
- Easy access for changing tools from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total 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 scales
- Easy access for changing tools from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total 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 scales
- Easy access for changing tools from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total 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: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Side guide: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (side guide): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Complete construction: Table, side system and cabinet
The Festool Box-OF HW S8 Mix router bit box contains ten different bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows a wide range of routing work in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge bits and groove bits to profile bits, chamfer bits, and jointing bits, making the set suitable for finishing, joining, and decorative profiling. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure a long service life and precise cutting.
The router bit set is delivered in a robust storage box that protects the bits and makes it easy to organise the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different bits for various tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with an 8 mm collet.
- Carbide (HW) bits: Offers high cutting capacity and long service life.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers groove, edge, and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide range of bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long service life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Delivered 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 range of bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long service life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Delivered 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 range of bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long service life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Delivered 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 bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge bit, dowel drill, groove bits, profile bits, chamfer bit, circular groove bit, and jointing bit
Product descriptions
The CMT router table without cabinet is a standalone work table developed for use with handheld routers. The table offers a stable and safe working surface where precision and control are the focus.
The tabletop is made of MDF with a laminated surface and measures 80 × 60 × 2.5 cm. The robust construction provides both strength and mobility, making the table suitable for different types of routing work.
The work table has a height of 90 cm and stands on fixed steel legs, which ensure stability during use. With a weight of 26.5 kg, the table stands solidly but can be moved as needed.
The tabletop is prepared for the CMT CMT7E router but can be adapted for 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: Fixed steel legs and a solid laminated MDF plate provide a robust work table.
- Flexible use: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Prepared for CMT7E: The tabletop is ready for mounting the CMT router model.
- Comfortable working height: The 90 cm height provides an ergonomic working position.
- Large working surface: The 80 × 60 cm tabletop offers generous space for routing work.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat working surface
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage space
- Requires adaptation 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 working surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage space
- Requires adaptation when using router models other than CMT7E
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Compatible with many router models
- Ergonomic working height
- Large and flat working surface
Cons
- Delivered without cabinet or additional storage space
- Requires adaptation when using router models other than CMT7E
Specifications
- Manufacturer: CMT
- Model: 999.110.00
- Top: MDF with laminated surface
- Length: 80 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Height: 90 cm
- Thickness: 2.5 cm
- Weight: 26.5 kg
- Compatibility: CMT7E and other handheld routers
- Maximum router diameter: 98 mm
The Festool Router Table FT-MFK 700 1.5° Set is designed to ensure precise and uniform edge routing. The fixed 1.5° tilt allows for high-precision surface processing, making it ideal for routing edges at the same level.
The router table is compatible with Festool MFK 700 and OFK 700 edge routers, providing a stable and controlled workflow. The combination of the router table and router facilitates achieving a uniform result, even when working with sensitive materials.
The set is delivered with a guide plate and a dust cover, which contribute to precise guidance and efficient dust collection during work. Supplied in cardboard packaging.
- 1.5° tilt: Provides precise edge routing at the same level.
- Compatibility: Suitable for Festool MFK/OFK 700 edge routers.
- Stable guidance: The included guide plate ensures controlled movement.
- Efficient dust collection: The dust cover 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
- Guide plate and dust cover included
- Solid construction for professional use
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without accessories other than those specified
Pros and cons
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Guide plate and dust cover included
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without accessories other than those specified
Pros
- High precision in edge routing
- Compatible with Festool MFK/OFK 700
- Guide plate and dust cover included
- Solid construction for professional use
Cons
- Requires a compatible Festool edge router for use
- Delivered without accessories other than 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
- Delivery contents: Guide plate, dust cover, delivered in cardboard
The Ferax Router Table BRT015 is a bench-type router table designed for use with a handheld router. The construction is stable and equipped with angled legs, providing a solid working base during routing.
The table is designed to fit most handheld routers on the market and allows precise and safe work with wooden pieces. The large work surface makes it suitable for both small and larger projects.
With a height of 860 mm and a worktable size of 610 × 810 mm, the table offers an ergonomic working position and good support for pieces. The 65–76 mm connection allows attachment to a dust extraction system for a cleaner working environment.
- Stable construction: Angled legs ensure a solid and vibration-free worktable.
- Compatibility: Fits most handheld routers on the market.
- Large work surface: The 610 × 810 mm table provides generous space for various pieces.
- Ergonomic height: Working height of 860 mm for comfortable operation.
- Extraction connection: Connection with a diameter of 65–76 mm for efficient dust removal.
Pros and cons
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many types of routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Possibility to connect to an extraction system
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy, with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros and cons
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many types of routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Possibility to connect to an extraction system
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy, with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Pros
- Robust and stable construction
- Fits many types of routers
- Large and flat work surface
- Possibility to connect to an extraction system
Cons
- Requires a separate handheld router for use
- Relatively heavy, with a weight of 26 kg, which may limit mobility
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ferax
- Model: BRT015
- Item number: 26236-0100
- Guide width: 150 mm
- Guide length: 457 mm
- Worktable width: 610 mm
- Worktable length: 810 mm
- Height: 860 mm
- Weight: 26 kg
- Connection diameter: 65–76 mm
The CMT router table with cabinet is a professional work table designed for mounting handheld routers. The table is built to provide stability, precision and easy access during work, making it suitable for both workshops and demanding hobby users.
The top is made of 12 mm phenol, a material resistant to torsion and more durable than traditional melamine boards. It includes an insert plate of 298 × 374 mm, as well as two integrated aluminium scales that allow precise adjustment of the side guide. A special tool system allows the router bit to be changed from above without dismantling the table.
The side guide is made of extruded aluminium and can be used both as fixed and as pivoting. It adjusts quickly using a clamping system and can be supplemented with central blocks made of hard plastic for additional support.
The cabinet part is made of 20 mm melamine and comes with two doors that provide space for storing accessories and tools. The combination of the phenolic plate, aluminium guide and robust cabinet provides a stable and functional router table that can be adapted to different work tasks.
- Phenolic top: 12 mm thick plate with high stability and torsion resistance.
- Integrated aluminium scales: Provide precise adjustment of the side guide position.
- Easy tool change: Change the router bit from above without dismantling the table.
- Adjustable side system: Can be used as fixed or pivoting, with quick locking mechanism.
- Robust cabinet: 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 scales
- Easy access for changing tools from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
- The total 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 scales
- Easy access for changing tools from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total 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 scales
- Easy access for changing tools from above
- Integrated storage space in the cabinet
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- The total 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: 12 mm phenol with insert plate (298 × 374 mm)
- Side guide: Extruded aluminium with clamping system
- Cabinet: 20 mm melamine with two doors
- Weight (top): approx. 15 kg
- Weight (side guide): approx. 8.5 kg
- Weight (cabinet): approx. 32.5 kg
- Complete construction: Table, side system and cabinet
The Festool Box-OF HW S8 Mix router bit box contains ten different bits, all equipped with an 8 mm shank. The set is designed for use with hand routers and allows a wide range of routing work in wood and similar materials.
The contents range from edge bits and groove bits to profile bits, chamfer bits, and jointing bits, making the set suitable for finishing, joining, and decorative profiling. Each bit is made of carbide (HW) to ensure a long service life and precise cutting.
The router bit set is delivered in a robust storage box that protects the bits and makes it easy to organise the equipment during transport and storage.
- Complete set: Contains 10 different bits for various tasks.
- 8 mm shank: Fits most hand routers with an 8 mm collet.
- Carbide (HW) bits: Offers high cutting capacity and long service life.
- Practical storage box: Keeps the bits organised and protected.
- Suitable for woodworking: Covers groove, edge, and profile routing.
Pros and cons
- Wide range of bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long service life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Delivered 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 range of bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long service life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Delivered 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 range of bits in one set
- Carbide tips for long service life
- Fits standard 8 mm hand routers
- Delivered 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 bits: 10 pcs.
- Shank diameter: 8 mm
- Material: Carbide (HW)
- Includes: Edge bit, dowel drill, groove bits, profile bits, chamfer bit, circular groove bit, and jointing bit
Different types of milling cutters
There are many types of milling cutters, each designed for specific tasks and materials. Knowing the differences makes it easier to choose the right tool.
1. Spiral cutters
Spiral cutters are the most common and are used for general milling in wood, plastic and metal. They are available with different spiral directions, which can pull chips up or down depending on the material and desired finish.
2. Ball-end cutters
Ball-end cutters have a rounded tip and are used for 3D shaping, rounding and precision work. They are popular in metalworking and modelling, where accuracy is important.
3. Groove cutters
Groove cutters are used to mill grooves, joints and cut-outs in wood and MDF. They are available in many widths and depths and are indispensable in carpentry and furniture making.
4. Edge cutters
Edge cutters are designed to process and shape edges. They can create profiles such as roundings, bevels or decorative patterns and are often used with a router.
5. Special cutters
There are also special cutters for specific purposes, such as V-shaped cutters for engraving, copy cutters for working with templates or cutters with interchangeable inserts for intensive industrial use.
Different brands of milling cutters
The milling cutter market includes many manufacturers, each with its strengths and areas of specialisation.
Bosch
Bosch offers a wide range of milling cutters for professionals and amateurs. Their cutters are known for high quality, precision and durability, covering everything from woodworking to metal milling.
Makita
Makita produces robust and reliable milling cutters, compatible both with their own machines and with other brands. They are particularly popular among craftsmen who want long-lasting tools.
Dewalt
Dewalt focuses on professional solutions and offers cutters with high precision and wear resistance. The range includes both standard and special cutters for demanding tasks.
CMT
CMT is known for its high-quality cutters designed for woodworking. The brand emphasises sharpness and precision, making its products popular among carpenters and furniture makers.
Festool
Festool offers premium cutters that combine precision with ergonomic design. They are aimed at professionals who have high demands both for results and ease of use.
Frequently asked questions
What is a milling cutter used for?
A milling cutter is used to remove material and shape pieces of wood, metal or plastic. It can create grooves, edges, holes and profiles, depending on the type of cutter and the machine used.
Can I use the same milling cutter for different materials?
It is recommended to use cutters designed for the specific material. A wood cutter will wear out quickly in metal, while a metal cutter may provide too rough a finish in wood.
How do I maintain my milling cutters?
Clean the cutters after use, remove chips and dust, and store them in a dry place. Sharp cutters provide better results, so sharpen or replace them when they wear out.
What does the cutting angle and rotation direction mean?
The cutting angle determines how the cutter removes material, while the rotation direction (right or left) influences the direction of the chips. It is important to choose the correct direction according to the machine’s rotation.
Can I use a milling cutter in a regular drill?
Some cutters can be used in a drill, but for precision work, a router or CNC machine is recommended, as they offer better control and stability.
