Frequently Asked Questions - (FAQs)

How can I recieve a catalog?

I found a similar product to what I am looking for listed on your website, but I can't find the exact product. Would you carry it and can I still order it?

When is it time to have a tool re-sharpened?

Is solid carbide better than carbide tipped?

What are the advantages and disadvantages for solid carbide spiral bits?

How do I care for router bits?

Where do I find Freight and Shipping information?

If you have a question or comment that isn't answered here, please email us a questions@ballewsaw.com

Q. How can I recieve a catalog?

A. You may receive a catalog by mail, by sending in your request to sales@ballewsaw.com or by clicking here.

Q.

I found a similar product to what I am looking for listed on your website, but I can't find the exact product. Would you carry it and can I still order it?

A. There are many items that we carry that may not be listed on our website (for various resons). There are also items that we do not stock but we may still be able to order them for you. You can call 1800-288-7483 to find out more.

Q. When is it time to have a tool re-sharpened?

A. When the cutting edge becomes dull. Some things to look for are:
-Surface finish quality will decrease
-Amount of horsepower necessary to cut will increase
-Noise level may increase

Q. Is solid carbide better than carbide tipped?

A. No. Carbide tipped router bits provides carbide backed by harden steel for the body. Solid carbide is brittle, and bits made of solid carbide are more likely to break then steel bodies. This combination, of carbide and steel, provides the carbide cutting edge with out the high cost of solid carbide and a more durable and less costly body. Solid carbide has the advantage that it may be machined into profiles and patterns (spiral, fiberglass..) where carbide tipped would be difficult or impossible to manufacture.

Q. What are the advantages and disadvantages for solid carbide spiral bits?

A. Solid Carbide Spiral Bits are designed much like a drill bit and it makes plunge cuts easily and nicely. The flutes on a spiral bit curve around the body of the bit and help to smooth vibration by spreading the cutting action over a longer edge. A spiral bit cuts forming a continuous chip formation, rather than the chopping action of a straight flute tool. A spiral bit is either up-cut or down-cut. A down-cut bit sends the chips downward and leaves a clean top edge and an up-cut send them up toward the shank and leave a clean exit hole. On a router table the direction is reversed. The bad news is solid carbide bits are more expensive. Solid carbide bits are also not available in the large range of sizes that carbide tipped bits are. The cutting diameters are rarely larger than their shanks. Carbide tipped straight bits also come in more cutting lengths.

Q: How do I care for router bits?

A. 1. Store bits properly. Carbide is easily nicked with careless handling and storing. A good storage system for bits not in use is well worth the effort. An easy storage system is to drill holes in a wood block and place router bits shanks in the holes.
2. Keep the bits clean. Pitch, resin tars and adhesives will accumulate on the bit. The results are increased friction and overheating, and subsequently, additional feeding pressure, placing more strain on your router and you. Clean your bits frequently with appropriate solvent such as lacquer thinner, special wood-pitch removers, mineral spirits or oven cleaner. Be careful with ball bearing guides not to remove the lubricant in the bearing by soaking the bearing in solvent.
2. Apply a protective surface coating to your bits. Bits may rust if kept in damp or unheated workshops. Apply a coating of light oil, or spray lubricant to all bits periodically.

Q: Where do I find Freight and Shipping information?

A. The link below should answer any questions you may have on shipping and freight, If it doesn't answer your question(s), please feel free to call us at (800) 288-7483.

http://www.ballewsaw.com/paymentshipping.htm