Wax covered router bits

[AdamW]

I have just taken delivery of a new 1/4" plunge router (couldn't justify a 1/2"!).

To go with my new toy... I mean tool... I also bought a set of router bits, opened the box and noticed they are all covered in a transparent wax. Obviously this serves 2 purposes: check no-one uses a bit and then tries to take it back, and to stop router novices like myself going "Ooooh, Roman Ogee!", grabbing hold of a bit and slicing fingers open.

However, I was wondering: do I need to get all the wax off before I can use a bit, or can I just use the bit on some scrap to wear the wax off? If I need to clean it off, how do I do it?

 

[kevplumb]

should peel off if not try white spirit

 

[big-all]

i have only ever had router bits with with a soft plasticy rubbery coating that peels of easily leaving an oily coating on the cutter
all i ever do is wipe with a bit of kitchen roll to remove the oil any oil remaining will be removed by the first few feet of cutting

now go and enjoy your new toy and dont forget practice practice practice dont try and cut off to much at one time

 

[mildmanneredjanitor]

1. Fit to router
2. Plug in router
3. Don goggles
4. Turn on
5. Watch pieces of wax fly off in all directions as the cutter rotates at ludicrous RPM!
6. Smile in a childish manner!!!


7. Ignore this post cos I was only kidding...

 

[AdamW]

8 ) I'm so going to do that anyway!

I actually have NO idea how to use a router, or a circular saw (I bought one of them too... DAMN YOU SCREWFIX!!! ). But the same was true of angle grinders when I bought one, and I had a lot of fun with that.

The only time I have seen a router used was that property programme where that guy with the really REALLY fit wife does up a house with the help of his mates... Jamie and Amanda Cussins, I think? Anyway, he seemed to be using a router in a very unmanly fashion...

 

[Jasonb]

Just peel it off and away you go, it helps stop rust and stops the bits knocking each other which will chip the TCT tips.

You may find this helpful if you have not used one before

http://www.wealdentool.com/acatalog/routing_hints_and_tips.html

And look at the tools, skills & joinery articles here

http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/index.asp

Jason

 

[AdamW]

Brilliant! Cheers Jason