Dovetail Cutter Bits

About Dovetail Cutter Bits

Dovetail cutter bits are precision router cutters designed to create the characteristic angled grooves and pins essential for dovetail joinery, one of the strongest and most attractive methods of joining wood. These specialised cutters feature a tapered profile that produces the distinctive trapezoidal shape, enabling woodworkers to craft interlocking joints commonly used in drawer construction, cabinet making, and fine furniture assembly. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks dovetail router cutters from trusted manufacturers including Trend and Draper, covering standard through dovetail cutters for jig work and specialised stair housing cutters with left and right-hand rotation.

Available in various angles—typically 7.5°, 9°, and 14°—these cutters accommodate different joint strengths and aesthetic preferences. Modern dovetail cutter bits are manufactured from tungsten carbide (TCT), providing exceptional edge retention and clean cutting performance across hardwoods, softwoods, and manufactured boards. Many feature precision-ground cutting edges that minimise tear-out and produce smooth surfaces requiring minimal finishing, with options compatible with popular jig systems including Trend's CRAFTPRO and Leigh dovetail jigs.

Applications

• Cabinet Makers: Professional joiners creating fitted and freestanding furniture who rely on dovetail joints for drawer construction and quality cabinetry
• Furniture Makers: Craftspeople producing bespoke and reproduction furniture where traditional joinery methods are essential for both strength and authenticity
• Joiners and Chippies: General woodworkers requiring dovetail cutters for various joinery applications including drawer assembly and decorative work
• Staircase Installers: Specialists using stair housing dovetail cutters to create precise angled grooves in stringers for secure tread and riser installation
• Restoration Specialists: Professionals repairing or recreating period furniture and architectural features where matching original dovetail joinery is crucial
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home woodworkers investing in quality joinery techniques for kitchen fitting, built-in furniture, or woodworking projects

Choosing The Right Dovetail Cutter Bits

Jig Compatibility: Ensure your cutter bit is specifically designed for your dovetail jig system. Trend CRAFTPRO cutters work with Trend jigs, whilst Leigh jig cutters are manufactured to different specifications. Using incompatible cutters can result in poor-fitting joints or jig damage.

Dovetail Angle: Consider the visual appearance and mechanical strength required. A 7.5° angle provides the strongest joint with subtle appearance, 9° offers excellent balance for general cabinet making, whilst 14° creates a more pronounced traditional look favoured in fine furniture.

Shank Size: Verify compatibility with your router's collet. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks cutters with various shank diameters including 6mm, 8mm, and imperial sizes. Larger shank diameters provide better stability and reduce vibration during cutting.

Special Applications: For staircase work, you'll need specific left-hand or right-hand rotation stair housing dovetail cutters depending on which stringer you're machining, ensuring the correct angle for safe stair construction meeting Building Regulations.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when routing, as dovetail cutters operate at high speeds. Secure workpieces firmly within a dovetail jig or to your bench—never attempt to rout handheld workpieces. Larger diameter cutters should run at reduced speeds (18,000-22,000 RPM) to prevent overheating. Ensure cutters are inserted fully into the collet and tightened securely before use. Connect your router to suitable dust extraction to prevent harmful particulate accumulation. Always feed the router against the cutter rotation to prevent dangerous kickback.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same dovetail cutter for different jig systems?

No, dovetail cutters are typically designed for specific jig systems. Trend CRAFTPRO cutters work with Trend jigs, whilst Leigh jigs require Leigh-specific cutters with different dimensions and angles. Always check compatibility before purchasing to ensure properly fitting joints.

Which dovetail angle should I choose?

The angle affects both strength and appearance. A 7.5° angle provides maximum mechanical strength, 9° offers excellent all-round performance for general cabinet making, and 14° creates the traditional pronounced dovetail look. For drawer construction, 9° is the most popular choice amongst professional cabinet makers.

Why do I need left and right-hand stair housing dovetail cutters?

Stair stringers require angled housings cut at opposing angles on the left and right sides of the staircase. Left-hand and right-hand rotation cutters ensure the dovetail angle slopes correctly to prevent treads and risers from pulling out under load, creating structurally sound staircases that meet Building Regulations.