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Just read an article by Fred Stutzenberger about grinding router bits to rough out barrel channels. Anybody know if these are ground by hand and eye, or is a machine involved?
 
Just read an article by Fred Stutzenberger about grinding router bits to rough out barrel channels. Anybody know if these are ground by hand and eye, or is a machine involved?
I make my router bits for parallel barrels out of a spade (paddle) drill bit. Grind the point off and then 45 deg grind the right angles. The secret (for me) is to make it slightly oversize and then try it on a scrap chunk of wood. Take off a little more where needed. I have made two, one for 13/16" and one for 1". All you need is a bench grinder and some patience. It is not rocket science.
Larry
 
You are talking about something spinning 20,000 rpm, you really don't want to take chances with something being out of balance at those speeds. In my opinion spade bits are not designed for those speeds and are too lightly built to be safe as well. Your mileage may very.

Barrel channels can be roughed out with a combination of straight and 45 degree v-bits. You can also have a custom router bit made to your specifications, but it would probably run a few hundred dollars at least. Check out www.vexorcwt.com if you go this route.
 
I use a milling machine with octagon bits ground by eye from router bits. I work slow and measure a lot. A hand guided router is asking for disaster in a split second.
 
Before I retired as a tool and die maker, I made several router bits for inleting barrels. I would not attempt to make one by hand for a router. For a bridgeport type mill using a slower speed yes, but not for a high speed router.
 
I've often thought it was odd that the supply houses or at least a member here wouldn't mill these bits for 3/4", 13/16", 7/8", 1", etc. etc. and sell them at a reasonable price.
 
Black Powder 411.com tips with fred stutzenberger part 7.

I was waiting for my truck today at the dealership (issues related to a recall which they serviced a week or so ago) and I read 8 or 9 of Fred's "tips and tricks" articles. They're geared more toward the beginner (gladly I'm starting to see myself as slightly advanced beyond the beginner stage), but they were pretty interesting and helpful.
 

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