Was curious what size bit/shank would be most versatile, being a grad student I try to buy quality built, and dynamic use products so that they have more use, and more longevity. Seeing as how I have only really done glass-on’s this is my first fin-box install. Just got a nice milwaukee router. Regards _ Jolly Mon
It depends on the removable fin system you’re installing. FCS 2, Fusion and Futures all use the same 1/4" shank to 1/2" double fluted bit. The catch is that FCS puts a bearing on theirs and futures has a special router/donut that they use to install the boxes. If you’re doing a single fin box then you need something beefy to get through some thicker stringers and you’ll also need a decent plunge router. This is why glass shops hate new fin systems…they end up with different jigs, tools and bits all over the place.
What type of router is it and what system of fins are you trying to install?
If I only had 1 router and bit it would be a trim router and a .500 bit - that will do most (if not all - although I have not used everyone out there so I cant confrim that) finbox system installs and can also put in a longbox. Go very slow on the longbox.
With a good jig it can also sink holes for leash plugs pretty nice too.
Its a fins unlimited 10.5 box, and im thinking about maybe doing some probox down the line two, but the next two longboards people want the same fins unlimited box in. Also it is a Milwauke Body grip 1-3/4 router. I could see how having multiple fin kits would be a pain in the ass. Thanks again for the help
I think your router has both 1/4" and 1/2" collets so either size shank will work. The bit size should be 1/2" to give you the proper radius on the corners and carbide is a good idea. Make the first cut shallow and go slow so you don’t blow up the stringer on the ends.
Gene is right your router should have come with a 1/2 main and a 1/4 in collet insert for smaller bits.
But you dont want to try to use one of those big routers on any of the finbox installs other than an Fins Unlimeted box.
We are the other way around. We have 4? of those big routers, we dont use any of them any more, all of our boxes are cut with trim routers. even the FU boxes.
You really only need one trim router to route every fin system except maybe lokbox if you are still keen to them.
Thanks guys, yea I know the thing is a workhorse. But I purchased it to also do some woodworking and such as well, best part of being a backyard shaper is seeing what type of trouble you can get into with some tools outside of shaping. Swaylocks knowledge wins again, an indespensible source.