Features
- Double-flute design for a smoother finish
- Bottom-mounted double ball bearing guide to follow templates
- Micrograin carbide tips for wear resistance and edge retention
- Control-cut design to reduce kickback
- Hardened and tempered steel shank for durability
Specifications
Product Type | Template Trim Bit |
Shank Diameter | 1/2" |
Cutting Diameter | 1/2" |
Cutting Height / Working Length | 1-1/2" |
Overall Length | 4-3/8" |
Bearing Diameter | 1/2" |
Flutes | 2 |
Weight | 0.210 lbs |
Upc/Ean Code | 000346278033 |
Sold In Multiples Of | 1 |
Priced By | Each |
Related Tools
Related Articles
Trim/router bit intended for laminate, template, and pattern work. The bearing follows a template while the cutting edges trim the workpiece. Micrograin carbide cutting tips are used for edge retention. The shank is hardened and tempered steel.
Bosch Carbide-Tipped Double-Flute Template Trim Bit Review
The Bosch Carbide-Tipped Double-Flute Template Trim Bit, model 85601M, is a versatile and reliable tool for anyone engaged in laminate trimming or template and pattern work. As a woodworking enthusiast, I have had the opportunity to put this bit through its paces, and I must say it has left a lasting impression.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you about this Bosch bit is its robust construction. The 1/2-inch shank diameter lends a sense of sturdiness, making it well-suited for heavy-duty tasks. The double-flute design is engineered for smoother cuts, and the micrograin carbide tips promise extended tool life. These features are not just marketing fluff; they translate into real-world performance that you can rely on.
Performance
I used this bit primarily for template routing on various types of wood, including oak and plywood. The bit performed exceptionally well, providing clean and precise cuts. The double-flute design indeed contributes to smoother cuts, reducing the chances of tear-out, especially in materials where the grain changes direction. This is a significant advantage over single-flute or flat cutter heads, which can be prone to tear-out.
One of the standout features is the control cut design, which minimizes kickback. This is particularly useful for those who may not have extensive experience with router bits. The bit feels stable and predictable, making it easier to handle even for intricate tasks.
Bearings and Longevity
The bit comes equipped with two ball bearings, which widen the bearing surface and reduce wear on templates. This is a thoughtful addition, but it's worth noting that the bearings are not sealed for long-term use. During my testing, I found that the bearings performed well initially but showed signs of wear after extended use. For instance, while trimming two countertops, the bearing seized halfway through the second one. This indicates that while the bit is excellent for short-term or occasional use, it may not be the best option for long-term, heavy-duty applications.
Versatility
This Bosch bit is incredibly versatile. I used it to pattern a curve on a thick oak bench leg, and it chewed through the excess wood effortlessly. The 1/2-inch shaft provides the heft needed for such demanding tasks. Additionally, I found it particularly useful for cutting through mortises in plywood. After drilling out most of the waste, this bit made quick work of the remainder, leaving no burn marks.
Ease of Use
One of the most significant advantages of this bit is its ease of use. The sharpness of the bit and the double-flute design make it easy to achieve clean cuts with minimal effort. I also appreciated the bit's length, which allowed me to reach deeper cuts without having to make multiple passes. This is a time-saver and reduces the likelihood of making errors.
Value for Money
Given its performance and build quality, the Bosch Carbide-Tipped Double-Flute Template Trim Bit offers excellent value for money. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its reliability and versatility make it a worthwhile investment. I found it to be comparable to more expensive bits I've used in the past, and in some cases, it even outperformed them.
Points of Caution
While my overall experience with this bit has been positive, there are a few points of caution. The nut that holds the bearing can come loose, as it did during one of my projects. I had to replace it with a nylock nut to ensure it stayed in place. This is a minor inconvenience but worth mentioning for those who plan to use the bit extensively.
Another point to consider is the bit's suitability for different types of routing. If you're primarily working with wood where the grain changes direction frequently, you might find a spiral bit more effective. Spiral bits can handle such conditions better and are less prone to tear-out. However, they come at a higher cost, and for many users, the Bosch bit will be more than adequate.
Conclusion
In summary, the Bosch Carbide-Tipped Double-Flute Template Trim Bit, model 85601M, is a robust and versatile tool that delivers excellent performance for a variety of routing tasks. Its double-flute design, control cut feature, and micrograin carbide tips make it a reliable choice for both amateur and professional woodworkers.
While it may have some limitations in terms of bearing longevity and suitability for specific types of wood, its overall performance and value for money make it a strong contender in its category. If you're looking for a reliable, versatile, and easy-to-use trim bit, this Bosch model is definitely worth considering.
I would recommend this tool for anyone engaged in template and pattern routing, laminate trimming, or general woodworking tasks. Its performance, ease of use, and value for money make it a worthwhile addition to any toolkit.
Project Ideas
Business
Batch Pattern-Cutting Service
Offer duplication of parts from customer-supplied or in-house MDF templates: cutting boards, chair arms, shelves, puzzle pieces, and more. Use the 1/2" shank double-flute bit in a router table for clean edges and fast turnaround. Upsell template design and finishing.
Skateboard/Longboard Blanks
Produce consistent deck shapes with master templates. Rough-cut pressed blanks, then flush-trim to final shape. The double ball bearings track reliably on templates even through end grain. Sell raw blanks or finished decks with grip and hardware.
Laminate Countertop Trim & Repair
Provide on-site trimming of new HPL installs and repair services for chipped edges. The micrograin carbide bit excels at laminate flush-trimming and leaves clean edges around sinks and corners. Market to contractors and DIYers needing precise, fast results without CNC.
Cabinet Edging Flush-Trim Shop
Partner with small cabinet shops to apply and flush-trim hardwood edging on plywood panels and shelves. The control-cut design reduces kickback on cross-grain, and the double-flute finish minimizes sanding. Offer per-panel pricing and quick lead times.
Template Kits and Workshops
Sell pre-cut MDF template sets (guitars, cornhole, shelves, cutting boards) designed for 1/2" bearing-guided bits. Bundle with safety guides and video lessons. Host weekend workshops where customers use your templates and trim bits to complete a project they take home.
Creative
Guitar Body Clone from Master Template
Make a master 3/4" MDF template for a Tele or Strat profile, rough-cut your blank on a bandsaw, then use the bottom-mounted double ball bearing to follow the template and flush-trim the perimeter. The double-flute design leaves a clean edge through end grain, and the micrograin carbide survives abrasive MDF and hardwoods. Add roundovers after for a pro look.
Layered Topographic Wall Art
Design contour templates for each elevation, trace and rough-cut each layer, then flush-trim to the template for perfectly matching shapes. Stack contrasting woods (walnut, maple, cherry) to build depth. The 1-1/2" cutting height handles thicker layers, while the control-cut design helps on tight curves.
Scalloped Charcuterie Boards
Create a reusable scallop or wave-edge template from MDF. After glue-up, rough the board to shape and template-trim for crisp, repeatable curves. The double-flute bit leaves a smooth finish, minimizing sanding. Add a chamfer or roundover and mineral oil finish.
Perfect Circle Sets (Coasters to Cornhole)
Use a circular template to produce flawless discs or holes. For coasters, rough on the bandsaw and flush-trim for perfectly round sets. For cornhole tops, attach a circle template under the panel, jigsaw the waste, then finish with the bearing-guided bit for a clean, accurate 6" hole.
Boomerang Laminate Coffee Table
Adhere HPL laminate to a plywood blank, then use a boomerang-shaped template to trim the top to its final form. The 1/2" bearing keeps the edge dead flush to the template, and the carbide tips handle abrasive laminate cleanly. Finish with a slight bevel pass for a mid-century vibe.