A studio product photograph of the Freud 26-104 panel pilot router bit, showcasing its bright red body, integrated pilot tip for self-starting plunge cuts, sharp silver cutting edge, and polished steel shank.
Industrial retail packaging for the Freud 26-104 bit, featuring a clear protective case with a red and black insert showing a 1/2-inch shank size, 1/2-inch diameter, and a 1-1/4 inch cutting height diagram.
A technical 3D illustration demonstrating the practical application of a panel pilot bit, showing a clean circular cutout and a large square opening with rounded corners routed through a grey-surfaced composite panel.
A studio product photograph of the Freud 26-104 panel pilot router bit, showcasing its bright red body, integrated pilot tip for self-starting plunge cuts, sharp silver cutting edge, and polished steel shank.
Industrial retail packaging for the Freud 26-104 bit, featuring a clear protective case with a red and black insert showing a 1/2-inch shank size, 1/2-inch diameter, and a 1-1/4 inch cutting height diagram.
A technical 3D illustration demonstrating the practical application of a panel pilot bit, showing a clean circular cutout and a large square opening with rounded corners routed through a grey-surfaced composite panel.
Freud

Freud 26-104 1/2 Inch Carbide Panel Pilot Router Bit with 1/2 Inch Shank 1-1/4 Cut Height 3-3/4 Length Woodworking Opening Tool for Siding Sheathing

Only 1 left
SKU: 26-104
$15.99

Description

Streamline Your Jobsite Efficiency with Freud’s High-Performance Panel Pilot Bit

The Freud 26-104 Carbide Panel Pilot Bit is the ultimate industrial solution for professionals requiring speed and precision when cutting openings in siding, paneling, sheathing, and cabinetry. Designed to replace slower methods, this bit features a drill-through point that enables self-starting plunge cuts directly into the material. The integrated pilot serves as a guide for template work, allowing you to follow window frames, door openings, or jigs with absolute accuracy using your hand-held router.

Engineered with Freud's TiCo Hi-Density Carbide, this panel pilot bit is built to significantly outlast standard high-speed steel (HSS) bits, maintaining a razor-sharp edge through demanding construction tasks. Whether you are installing exterior sheathing or interior paneling, the single-cutter design is optimized for fast material removal without sacrificing the cleanliness of the cut. This tool is a must-have for contractors looking to reduce downtime and achieve repeatable, accurate results on every project.

Key Features

  • Self-Starting Drill Point: Allows for rapid plunge cuts into siding and sheathing without pre-drilling.
  • Industrial Carbide Tips: Premium carbide construction outlasts high-speed steel bits many times over.
  • Template Guide Pilot: Integrated pilot acts as a guide for accurate template and jig routing.
  • High Speed & Efficiency: Optimized for fast cutting where speed and accuracy are primary considerations.
  • Universal 1/2" Shank: Provides maximum stability and reduced vibration in portable hand-held routers.

What's Included

  • (1) Freud 1/2 in. Carbide Panel Pilot Router Bit (26-104)

Specifications

Overall Diameter (D) 1/2"
Carbide Height (h) 1-1/4"
Shank Diameter (A) 1/2"
Overall Length (H) 3-3/4"
Number of Cutters 1
Max RPM 24,000
Bit Material Carbide Tipped
Cutting Direction Right Hand
Ideal Tool Portable Router
Best For Siding, Paneling, & Sheathing

Pro-Tip: When cutting openings for windows or doors through sheathing, always move the router in a clockwise direction. This keeps the pilot pressed firmly against the frame, ensuring a cleaner, safer cut and preventing the bit from wandering away from your guide.