Understanding Guide Bushings

 

Understanding guide bushings

Guide bushings may be the most misunderstood of all router accessories. Their uses include cutting dovetails with a jig, lettering, inlay work, even reproducing furniture parts. Here's the basic concept: A guide bushing mounts to the router's subbase with a tube that protrudes below. A straight router bit extends through the tube. The outer surface of the tube rides against an edge guide or template, keeping the bit a set distance (offset) from the edge guide or template.

In the marketplace you'll find two bushing styles. The Porter-Cable two-piece (shown below right) uses a screw-on locking ring to hold the tube part to the router base. This style fits a wide range of models. The other style of guide bushing clicks into place, but only fits Bosch routers. If your router doesn't accept these common styles of guide bushings, consider buying adapters and subbases . Guide bushings are sold individually or in sets. Individual bushings cost $6-$8 each, while sets range from $30-$45.