Studio product shot of the Freud 04-540 double flute straight router bit, featuring a silver 1/4-inch shank and a red Perma-SHIELD coated cutter head.
Technical diagram showing a cross-section of a wood cut, indicating a slot width of 16mm and a cutting depth of 3/4 inch for model number 04-540 metric.
3D computer graphic showing a block of wood with a wide square channel groove cut into the top surface, illustrating the profile created by the straight bit.
Top-down diagram of the router bit profile showing the circular cutting path and the arrangement of the two grey carbide cutting flutes against a red background.
Studio product shot of the Freud 04-540 double flute straight router bit, featuring a silver 1/4-inch shank and a red Perma-SHIELD coated cutter head.
Technical diagram showing a cross-section of a wood cut, indicating a slot width of 16mm and a cutting depth of 3/4 inch for model number 04-540 metric.
3D computer graphic showing a block of wood with a wide square channel groove cut into the top surface, illustrating the profile created by the straight bit.
Top-down diagram of the router bit profile showing the circular cutting path and the arrangement of the two grey carbide cutting flutes against a red background.
Freud

Freud 04-540 16mm Metric Diameter Double Flute Straight Router Bit 1/4 Inch Shank TiCo Carbide for Joinery Grooving Wood Composites

Only 1 left
SKU: 04-540
$15.77

Description

Execute Precise Metric Joinery with the Freud 16mm Double Flute Straight Router Bit

Achieve exacting standards in your woodworking projects with the Freud 04-540 16mm Double Flute Straight Bit. This specialized cutter is an essential tool for woodworkers dealing with metric specifications, offering a precise 16mm cutting diameter that standard fractional imperial bits cannot match. It is crafted from Freud's exclusive TiCo Hi-Density Carbide, a proprietary formulation designed to withstand high operating temperatures and maintain a razor-sharp edge up to four times longer than standard carbide cutters, ensuring consistent performance in hardwood, softwood, plywood, and abrasive composite materials.

The 04-540 is engineered for both versatility and superior finish quality. Its computer-balanced double flute geometry features precision-ground hook and shear angles that slice cleanly through wood fibers, minimizing vibration and leaving a smooth surface that typically requires no sanding. With a 3/4-inch cutting height and a standard 1/4-inch shank, this bit fits a wide range of routers while providing the stability needed for general grooving. The carbide tips are also relief-ground to facilitate safe and effective plunge cutting, allowing you to start grooves or recesses directly in the center of a workpiece for hardware installations or mortises.

Key Features

  • Metric Precision: True 16mm cutting diameter is ideal for installing metric hardware and specific joinery requirements.
  • TiCo Hi-Density Carbide: Proprietary carbide blend delivers exceptional durability and heat resistance for extended tool life.
  • Double Flute Design: Two precision cutting edges ensure fast chip evacuation and a smooth, chatter-free finish.
  • Plunge Cutting Ready: Relieved tips allow for vertical drilling and starting grooves anywhere on the material.
  • 1/4 Inch Shank: Versatile shank size fits laminate trimmers, hand-held routers, and tabletop CNC machines.
  • Precision Geometry: Optimized shear angles reduce cutting resistance and prevent burning on the workpiece.

What's Included:

  • (1) 16mm Double Flute Straight Bit with 1/4 In. Shank (Model 04-540)

Specifications

Model Number 04-540
Overall Diameter (D) 16mm (approx. 0.63 In.)
Shank Diameter (A) 1/4 In.
Carbide Height (h) 3/4 In.
Overall Length (H) 2-1/4 In.
Number of Flutes 2 (Double Flute)
Max RPM 24,000 RPM
Material TiCo Hi-Density Carbide
Bit Type Straight Plunge (Metric)
Application Material Wood, Plywood, Composites
Pro-Tip: It is crucial to use this 16mm bit only when 16mm is specifically required. While it is very close to 5/8 inch (which is 15.875mm), the 0.125mm difference can result in a loose fit for standard 5/8" joinery, or a fit that is too tight if trying to force 16mm hardware into a 5/8" slot. Always measure your hardware or material thickness before cutting.