Appreciation post: my old way to cut dados versus a router sled

I used to just stack plywood and run it through the table saw, which was fast but left a lot of tear-out. I built a simple router sled jig for a big built-in project and the dado bottoms came out glass smooth. Anyone have a favorite bit for this kind of clean up work?

3 comments

3 Comments

bettymiller1mo ago

Yeah, but a sharp stack still tears out the back of the plywood for me every single time, no matter how slow I feed it. That router sled is a game changer for getting that perfect finish on visible parts. I've had the best luck with a simple straight bit and just taking light passes, it's way more controlled. The extra setup time is totally worth it for how smooth it comes out.

fisher.jessica1mo ago

What about just using a sharp dado stack?

-1

zaranelson1mo ago

Honestly, is a dull one that big of a deal? A sharp stack is fine for most stuff.