Also called a Mortise Style compression bit, this bit has a short up cut flute. This allows for shallower cuts while taking advantage of the compression cut. Astra Coated Solid Carbide Tip Diameter: 3/8″ Shank Diameter: 1/2″ Length of cut: 1-1/4″ Spiral Change: 0.22″ Overall length: 3-1/2” Made In USA These tools are coated with a proprietary high performance *Astra coating* that allows higher speed & feed rates as well as 2x the extended tool life & increased lubricity in abrasive material Jonathan's Hot Take: Compression bits have quickly become my absolute favorite type of spiral bit. The short flute allows a shorter first pass and it gives you super clean edges on both the top and bottom. This is really advantageous in plywood and on the CNC. These bits provide the HIGHEST VALUE because the Astra Coating makes them last at least 2-4x longer than uncoated bits. This is one of those times that spending a little more upfront saves you a lot of money down the line. Spiral bits perform 100x better and 100x longer than straight bits. I recommend staying away from straight bits in general, because they dull so much faster and their aggressive cutting profile can be much less safe. Check out the video in additional resources for more info.
