How to Use a Plunge Router

Co-authored by Vic Tesolin

Last Updated: January 8, 2026 Approved

One of the most versatile electric tools available to a woodworker is the router. The router comes in 2 forms, the fixed base and the plunge base. The router used most by the woodworker is the plunge base. It may seem more difficult to use at first, but you can learn how to use a plunge router by following the steps below.

Steps

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1
Examine the plunge router. You will note that it contains an electric motor mounted between two posts. The motor rests on top of springs and is attached to a flat base that guides the motor down at a 90 degree angle.^{[1]
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- The motor rises back into position when downward pressure is released, raising the router bit above the base.
- Attached to a collet, the motor connects much like a hand drill chuck. It comes in 2 sizes, 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch (as well as 8 mm and 12 mm in metric sizes). This is where the router bit does the cutting.
The bigger the motor, and consequently the collet, the bigger the router bit. As a result, the cut is deeper.^{[2]
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Remember, a higher price does not necessarily mean a better tool.^{[3]
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4
Use jigs and guides with the plunge router. These are often shop made or bought as add-on accessories.
- The most common jig will be used for cutting dadoes. Dadoes are used in joining two pieces of wood at 90 degrees, such as adding a kitchen cabinet shelf to a side piece. This type of joint uses a straight cut router bit for dadoes.
- Clamp the guide into place so that, when the router bit is plunged downward, the bit will line up with the dado joint you want to cut.
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Pull the trigger and push downward while holding the router with both hands. This act will engage the bit with the wood.^{[5]
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Vic Tesolin
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Vic Tesolin
Woodworker and Furniture Designer

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The router will retract into the base.
9
Use other bits to cut profile edges with a plunge router following the same procedure.
- Install the desired router bit in the collet. Most profile-edge bits, like a round over or Roman Ogee bit, will have a sleeve bearing that will guide the bit along the edge of the work piece.
- Set the depth gauge for the amount of bit you want to use.
10
Set the plunge router base onto the surface. Firmly press downward, holding the handles while pulling the trigger.^{[7]
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- Push in against the edge engaging the bit while fully extended to the depth needed.

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How do I build a router table?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Take a look here: TheBalance.com/free-router-table-plans-1357138.

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Question

How do I use an angle grinder as a wood saw?

Donagan

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There's an old saying: use the right tool for the job. There are so many kinds of saws available, it's hard to imagine that you couldn't find a size and tooth pattern to fit the job at hand. A grinder will burn your wood and generally exasperate you unless there's very little wood to remove. In that case you might consider a file, a sander, or a chisel.

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Tips

A plunge router, like a fixed base router, can be used in a router table. However, it can be more difficult to adjust the height.

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Read the instruction manual thoroughly, with the router in hand. Go over the pieces and any accessories that came with it before trying to put it to use.

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Make multiple passes on deep cuts. Attempting to make one deep pass on a dadoes or rabbit joint will bog down the router. Other problems of uneven cuts and kick back will occur as well.

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Warnings

Wear safety glasses and a dust mask when working with the plunge router.

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Do not wear loose clothing while operating a router.

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