Studio product shot of the Freud 12-138 double flute straight router bit, featuring a 1/2-inch silver shank and a red Perma-SHIELD coated cutter head with a 5/8 inch diameter.
Technical diagram showing a cross-section of a wood cut, indicating a slot width of 5/8 inch and a cutting depth of 1-1/4 inch for model numbers 04-137 and 12-138.
3D computer graphic showing a block of wood with a clean, rectangular channel groove cut into the top surface, illustrating the grooving profile of the 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 12-138 double flute straight router bit, featuring a 1/2-inch silver shank and a red Perma-SHIELD coated cutter head with a 5/8 inch diameter.
Technical diagram showing a cross-section of a wood cut, indicating a slot width of 5/8 inch and a cutting depth of 1-1/4 inch for model numbers 04-137 and 12-138.
3D computer graphic showing a block of wood with a clean, rectangular channel groove cut into the top surface, illustrating the grooving profile of the 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 12-138 5/8 Inch Double Flute Straight Router Bit 1/2 Shank TiCo Carbide for General Grooving Mortising Wood Plywood Composites

Only 1 left
SKU: 12-138
$18.29

Description

Achieve Precise 5/8 Inch Grooves and Smooth Finishes with the Freud Straight Router Bit

Execute general-purpose routing tasks with unmatched precision using the Freud 12-138 5/8 Inch Double Flute Straight Bit. This versatile cutter is a workshop staple, perfectly sized for cutting 5/8-inch wide dados, mortising for hardware, or creating strong rabbet joints. Supported by a robust 1/2-inch shank, the bit offers superior rigidity compared to smaller shanks, significantly reducing vibration and chatter during deep cuts. It is constructed from Freud's exclusive TiCo Hi-Density Carbide, a specialized formulation designed to retain a razor-sharp edge up to four times longer than standard carbide, even when working with abrasive materials like plywood and composites.

The 12-138 is engineered not just for durability, but for finish quality. Its computer-balanced double flute geometry features precision-ground hook and shear angles that slice cleanly through wood fibers, leaving a smooth surface that often requires no sanding. The bit also features end-relieved tips, allowing for efficient plunge cutting to start blind grooves or pockets in the center of a panel. Whether you are using a CNC machine for production work, a table router for joinery, or a hand-held router for onsite tasks, this bit delivers professional, splinter-free results in hardwood, softwood, and laminates.

Key Features

  • Versatile 5/8 Inch Diameter: Ideal for hardware mortising, wide dados, and general stock removal.
  • TiCo Hi-Density Carbide: Proprietary blend resists heat and wear for maximum edge life.
  • Heavy-Duty Shank: 1/2-inch shank ensures stability and minimizes vibration for cleaner cuts.
  • Plunge Ready: Relieved tip geometry allows for vertical drilling and pocketing applications.
  • Clean Finishes: Shear angles are engineered to reduce tearing and produce smooth edges.
  • Versatile Compatibility: Safe for use in CNC, table-mounted, and hand-held routers.
  • Deep Cutting: 1-1/4 inch carbide height accommodates thick stock and deep groove requirements.

What's Included:

  • (1) 5/8 In. Double Flute Straight Bit with 1/2 In. Shank (Model 12-138)

Specifications

Model Number 12-138
Overall Diameter (D) 5/8 In.
Shank Diameter (A) 1/2 In.
Carbide Height (h) 1-1/4 In.
Overall Length (H) 2-1/2 In.
Number of Cutters 2 (Double Flute)
Max RPM 24,000 RPM
Material TiCo Hi-Density Carbide
Bit Type Straight Plunge
Application Material Wood, Plywood, Composites
Pro-Tip: When routing a dado or groove that is 5/8" wide, you are removing a significant amount of material. To prevent burning the wood and to extend the life of your bit, avoid cutting the full depth in a single pass. Instead, make multiple passes of about 1/4" depth until you reach your final desired depth.