We are swapping out our cope stick cutters. I got a good deal on the Mc-50-020 ogee on eBay. It arrived, has 6 cutters but no bearing. I looked it up and bearings are sold separately. Looking at their instructions it does not appear they use a bearing. They show using a slot cutter in the place where I normally would use the bearing. I can see how not using a bearing on the pattern cut might work, but the cope cut should use the beading so the tongue has something to ride on.
Any advice on this cutter would he appreciated. I am thinking I need to order 2 bearings for the pattern and cope cut.
Apparently no person experienced with these cutters.
I found that no bearing is required or even necessary. A bearing is required when doing work with curves.
The cutters work perfect and leave the cleanest cut. Of course since they are brand new the clean cut is expected. Even the least expensive cutters will leave a very clean cut when they are brand new.
I have some of the Freeborn cutters in my PanelMaster made by Hawk and upon looking at them this evening there are no bearings on them either. I agree that when doing curved work they would be necessary. They are pricey as you know. But you gt what you pay for. Here is some info from Bellesaw…..
Thanks Gshepherd, now I don't think I am talking among myself
Yeah, I have never used a cutter without a bearing so it was difficult for me to imagine. But today I built our first door with our new cutter and it worked perfect.
What I like about Freeborn Cutters is you can get them sharpened or if you break a tip they can fix them…. It happens but at least when it does they can be fixed….. Also watch out for pitch and keep them clean it reduces heat build up and they will stay sharper longer…..
Yeah, I just found that out today after calling freeborn. I did not realize they could just re tip the cutter body if the blades become damaged. That is very neat.
The initial cost makes you grab your butt at first but over the long haul they are worth it… Damn good cutters production quality…... Have you ever used the Top Coat spray that makes your shaper/router top slick? If not look into it you be amazed how well it works and it will not affect the wood at all for finishes. I also use a lubricant that I spray on the cutters themselves that helps reduce pitch and heat.
Yeah, they are expensive for sure. No I have never used any sprays. I should try that though. Anything that can reduce table friction and help the cutter is going to be better. We have a few shapers now but they are all 3 hp. Not bad for most cuts but can push the power limits on panels. I think I will try the sprays you talk about.
Some sets don't use bearings. You use the router table fence for a guide. They work fine, except you can't cut curved rails with them. For curved top cabinet doors, you need a bit set with bearings.
Good luck
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