Cut layers of material flush to one another or make cuts along a template.

Carbide-tipped high-speed steel bits are for use on wood and plastic laminate.

Use carbide bits for longer tool life and faster cutting speeds than high-speed steel. Ball-bearing pilots guide the bit for accurate cuts and produce less friction than solid pilots for smoother operation.

Pilot location describes the position of the pilot when the bit is used for hand routing. The pilot location is reversed when using the bit with a router table. Top-pilot bits cut a lower layer of the workpiece flush to the layer above. In addition to flush trimming, they can be used for pattern cutting with a template placed above the workpiece.

Bits with straight flutes are for general purpose use. They quickly remove material, leaving a rough finish.

Bits with spiral flutes leave a smoother finish than straight-flute bits and make plunge cuts more easily (for plunge-cutting bits). Bits with upward and downward chip removal are also known as compression bits. Acting like scissors, they move chips away from the top and bottom edges of the cut for a smooth finish on both.

Bits with a plunge cut type let you cut directly into the workpiece from above. Other bits are best for operations where the peripheral teeth do most of the work such as trimming, contouring, and finishing.