2-Flute Upcut — 1/4"
Generic
Overview
Generic 2-flute upcut spiral end mill, 1/4in shank. The workhorse of hobby CNC routing. Upcut geometry pulls chips up and out of the cut for clean floors and efficient chip evacuation. Max RPM: 24,000.
Properties
Difficulty
beginner
Pros
- Upcut for excellent chip evacuation
- 1/4 inch shank provides rigidity
- Good for deeper cuts and harder materials
- Efficient material removal
- Versatile general-purpose bit
Cons
- Can splinter top surface of laminated materials
- Lifts chips upward — can mark top surface
- Requires good hold-down
- Heavier cuts generate more heat
Best For
- Hardwood
- softwood
- MDF
- plywood through-cuts and pocketing. Best general-purpose bit for wood routing.
Avoid For
- Acrylic and plastics (use O-flute)
- veneered top surfaces needing clean face (use downcut)
- metals without coolant.
Brands
WhitesideAmana ToolFreudBoschCMTKyoceraOnsrud