If you're just starting out in woodworking, picking up your first router can feel downright intimidating. I get it—when I first started, that spinning bit made me more nervous than the table saw ever did. But once I learned how to use a router the right way and found the bits that really matter, it became one of my favorite tools in the shop.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the top 5 router bits every woodworker should own, give you some honest router buying advice, and share the tips and safety tricks I wish someone had told me years ago.

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Watch The Full Youtube Video Here: Complete Beginner’s Guide to Router Bits

🧰 Choosing the Right Router (Trim vs. Plunge vs. Cordless)

Before we jump into the bits, let’s talk routers—because if you’re confused about which one to get, you’re not alone.

🪵 Trim Routers (a.k.a. Palm Routers)

Great for beginners. These small, handheld routers are:

Budget-friendly
Easy to control
Perfect for the 5 must-have bits below

💡 Top Trim Router Picks:

Bosch Corded Trim Router – solid and reliable
Makita Corded Trim Router
Milwaukee M18 Cordless Trim Router – my personal favorite
RYOBI 18v Trim Router – great for those on a budget

🧱 Plunge + Fixed Base Routers (Corded)

If you're planning to cut deeper grooves, dovetails, or want more versatility, these give you more power.

💪 Top Corded Combo Options:

⚡ Cordless Plunge Routers

If you want the latest and greatest with safety features built in:

DeWALT 20V Cordless Plunge Router – top-tier plunge base and anti-kickback
Bosch 18V Router Combo
Makita 40V Plunge Router

⚠️ Router Safety Tips for Beginners

Your router can be your best friend—or your worst nightmare if you’re not careful. Follow these to stay safe:

🔄 Know Your Direction:

Outside edges = counterclockwise
Inside edges (like trays or boxes) = clockwise

✂️ Use Push Cuts, Not Climb Cuts

Push cuts give you control. Climb cuts can grab and kick back.

✨ Sharp Bits Are Safe Bits

Cheap router bits dull quickly. Burn marks, rough cuts, and scary kickbacks usually follow. Invest in quality.

🔧 Helpful accessories:

🪚 5 Must-Have Router Bits for Woodworkers

If you’re just getting into woodworking, these five router bits will cover 90% of what you’ll need. Let’s dive in:

1. Roundover Bit

Gives your projects a smooth, finished edge.

✅ Perfect for:

Cutting boards
Tabletops
Shelves

📦 Great Sets:

2. Chamfer Bit

Creates a clean, angled edge for a modern look.

✅ Use it on:

Picture frames
Furniture edges
Cutting boards

3. Flush Trim Bit

Essential for pattern routing and batch work.

✅ Options:

Top-bearing and bottom-bearing bits
Match your pattern orientation

🛠️ Bosch 6-Piece Bit Set includes a solid flush trim bit.

4. Straight Bit

Great for cutting dados, grooves, and even box joints.

✅ Must-have sizes:

Pro tip: Use Kreg Setup Bars for precise cutting depth.

5. Dovetail Bit

More than just for joints—it powers the genius MicroJig Dovetail System.

✅ Perfect for:

Building custom clamps and sleds
Jointing edges without a jointer
Modular workbenches and jigs

🧩 Try the MicroJig Dovetail Combo Kit for the full setup.

💡 Final Thoughts: Start Small, Build Smart

These five bits and a good router will unlock a world of possibilities in your woodworking journey. From shaping edges to cutting joinery and building jigs, you don’t need a massive tool collection—just the right tools.

If you’re ready to grow your skills and maybe even make some money from your work, check out my free beginner course at skool.com/731works. You’ll get: