A studio product view of the Freud 18-522 round nose router bit, featuring a red cutting head with a rounded silver carbide tip, a top-mounted steel ball bearing for template guidance, and a polished steel shank.
A technical diagram illustrating the cutting profile of the Freud 18-522 bit, showing a cross-section of wood with a 3/4 inch wide U-shaped groove and a 3/8 inch radius, guided by a grey template at the top.
A studio product view of the Freud 18-522 round nose router bit, featuring a red cutting head with a rounded silver carbide tip, a top-mounted steel ball bearing for template guidance, and a polished steel shank.
A technical diagram illustrating the cutting profile of the Freud 18-522 bit, showing a cross-section of wood with a 3/4 inch wide U-shaped groove and a 3/8 inch radius, guided by a grey template at the top.
Freud

Freud 18-522 3/4 Inch Top Bearing Round Nose Router Bit 1/2 Inch Shank 3/8 Radius Carbide Woodworking Tool for Sign Lettering Fluted Millwork

Only 1 left
SKU: 18-522
$37.99

Description

Elevate Your Craftsmanship with Industrial-Grade Fluting and Precision Sign Lettering

The Freud 18-522 Top Bearing Round Nose Bit is the professional woodworker's solution for adding intricate, engraved details to high-end cabinetry and custom millwork. Often referred to as a "Core Box" bit, this versatile tool is engineered to produce deep, clean flutes on cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and moldings. With its specialized 3/8-inch radius and integrated top bearing, it is also an exceptional choice for routing precise sign lettering and decorative veining, providing a glass-smooth finish across hardwood, softwood, plywood, and composite materials.

Constructed with Freud Premier Solid Carbide, the 18-522 is built to withstand the rigors of high-production shop environments. The bit features a robust 1/2-inch shank for maximum stability, reducing vibration and chatter during operation. Whether you are utilizing a CNC machine for automated production or using a hand-held or table-mounted router for custom projects, this bit delivers the durability and precision that industrial craftsmen demand.

Key Features

  • Industrial Versatility: Perfect for creating decorative flutes in doors, drawer fronts, and architectural moldings.
  • Precision Sign Making: Optimized geometry makes it an ideal bit for professional-grade sign lettering and veining.
  • Freud Premier Solid Carbide: Delivers superior edge retention and significantly longer cutting life compared to standard bits.
  • Universal Compatibility: Engineered for use in CNC and automatic routers, as well as hand-held and table-mounted portable routers.
  • Multi-Material Excellence: Routs clean, splinter-free channels in hardwood, softwood, plywood, and various composites.
  • Top Bearing Guidance: Integrated bearing allows for easy template routing and consistent depth control.

What's Included

  • (1) Freud 18-522 3/4" Diameter Top Bearing Round Nose Bit

Specifications

Overall Diameter (D) 3/4 Inch
Shank Diameter (A) 1/2 Inch
Radius (R) 3/8 Inch
Carbide Height (h) 1-1/4 Inches
Overall Length (H) 2-27/32 Inches
Number of Cutters 2
Maximum RPM 24,000 RPM
Material Freud Premier Solid Carbide
Bearing Type Top Bearing
Ideal Application Fluted millwork, signs, and veining
Pro-Tip: When routing deep flutes or sign letters, perform the cut in multiple shallow passes to prevent wood burning and reduce stress on the bit. Using a template with the top bearing will ensure perfectly repeatable results, but always clear wood chips frequently to keep the bearing path smooth and accurate.