— Frequently Asked
Feeds, speeds, and tool care.
If your question isn't here, email info@extremecnctools.com — we typically respond within 4 business hours.
What carbide grade do you use?
All our bits are submicron-grain solid carbide, sourced and ground in the USA. Submicron grade holds an edge 2-3× longer than standard-grade carbide, especially in abrasive materials like MDF and HPL.
Are your bits compatible with my router?
Yes — our bits use standard 1/4" and 1/2" shanks compatible with all major CNC router brands (ShopBot, Avid, Stepcraft, Onefinity, X-Carve, Shaper, ShopSabre, Laguna, AXYZ, MultiCam, etc.) as well as handheld routers.
What's the difference between compression, upcut, and downcut?
Upcut spirals pull chips up out of the cut — best chip evacuation but can leave fuzzy tops. Downcut spirals push chips down — leaves clean tops but can pack chips in deep cuts. Compression combines both: a short upcut section at the tip and downcut above, giving clean tops AND bottoms simultaneously.
Recommended feeds and speeds?
Starting points for 1/4" Jenny in 3/4" pre-finished panels: 18,000 RPM, 180-220 IPM feed, 0.15" depth of cut. Adjust to match your machine rigidity and material. We include detailed feeds-and-speeds cards with every order, and the full chart is available on request.
How long do the bits last?
In our shop testing, the Jenny 1/4 averages 8,000+ linear feet in 3/4" melamine before edge wear becomes noticeable. ZrN-coated bits typically run 2-3× longer than uncoated equivalents. Tool life depends heavily on feeds/speeds, material, and machine rigidity.
Do you offer custom tooling?
Yes. Email info@extremecnctools.com with your specifications and we'll quote it. Minimum custom order is typically 10 bits. Custom geometry, custom diameters, or special coatings — we make them.
Wholesale / distributor pricing?
We offer wholesale pricing on orders of 25+ bits per SKU, or 50+ mixed bits. Email info@extremecnctools.com with your shop info and an estimate of monthly volume.
Shipping and returns?
Free shipping on orders over $150 to the lower 48. Orders placed before 2pm EST ship the same business day via USPS Priority or UPS Ground. 30-day no-hassle returns — email us first for an RMA.
What if a bit chips or fails early?
If a bit fails inside 30 days of light use, we replace it free. After 30 days we'll diagnose the failure mode with you — chipping usually means a feeds/speeds issue we can help correct. Email a photo and your machine setup to info@extremecnctools.com.
Do you carry inserts / replacement tooling?
Not at this time. We focus on solid-carbide router bits and end mills. If you need indexable insert tooling for your CNC mill, we can recommend trusted partners.
