Field‑Test: 1.5‑in vs 2.5‑in Surfacing Bits on the Cratos Router Sled
CNC Alternatives

Field‑Test: 1.5‑in vs 2.5‑in Surfacing Bits on the Cratos Router Sled

What we learned about cycle time, motor load, and surface quality—plus how SpeTool’s cutters stack up against established names.
Noise and finish quality comparison between helical and straight knives on DW735
DW735 upgrade

Helical vs. Straight Knives on a DW735: Real-World Noise & Finish Tests (2025 Guide)

Woodworkers universally praise the DeWalt DW735 as one of the best portable planers around. But many face a common dilemma: should you stick with straight knives or upgrade to a helical cutterhead?...
SpeTool Cratos Sled
Large Wood Slabs

Three Cost-Smart Ways to Flatten a 4 × 8 Slab (and Where an Aluminum Router Sled Shines)

Flattening a huge 48 × 96-inch slab presents unique challenges. But with the right strategy, it doesn't need to be complicated or costly. Today, we'll explore three practical solutions to turn that...
Best DW735 Helical Cutterhead Comparison
Byrd Shelix

Byrd, LuxCut, FindBuyTool, SpeTool: Which DW735 Helical Cutterhead Wins on Value?

  If you own a DeWalt DW735 planer, upgrading to a helical cutterhead is one of the smartest moves you can make. It reduces noise, improves finish quality, and drastically cuts sanding time. But wi...
Four woodworking routers from Bosch, DeWALT, Makita, and Milwaukee displayed side by side on a wooden workbench
beginner woodworking tips

How to Use a Woodworking Router: Beginner-Friendly Guide

Routers are essential tools in woodworking, providing precision and versatility. This beginner-friendly guide covers router basics, safe operation, and expert tips to achieve flawless results. If y...
SpeTool Single-Flute Router Bits
Acrylic CNC

Master Acrylic Cuts with Single-Flute Router Bits: A Two-Tier Guide

Struggling with melted edges, chips, and frosted finishes on acrylic? Here's how single-flute (O-flute) router bits can transform your CNC experience—no matter your budget. If you've searched "sing...
difference between upcut downcut compression router bits
cabinetmaking

Up-Cut vs. Down-Cut vs. Compression: The Minimalist Guide for CNC Woodworkers

Make sense of CNC router bits once and for all with this simplified, no-nonsense guide. Choosing between up-cut, down-cut, and compression router bits can feel unnecessarily complex, even for seaso...
SpeTool router sled S01001 Compatible router
Router Compatibility

Router Horsepower Guide: How to Match Router Power to Your Sled (Featuring SpeTool Cratos S01001)

Selecting the right router horsepower ensures smoother cuts, less downtime, and longer tool life. Quick guidelines: ≤24" slabs → 1½ HP router 24–30" slabs → 2–2½ HP router ≥36" slabs → 3¼ HP ...
Dust-Hood Designs to Keep Your Router Sled Chip-Free
DIY dust collection

Top 3 Dust-Hood Designs to Keep Your Router Sled Chip-Free

Tired of the router sled turning your workshop into a dust storm? The right dust hood can reduce airborne chips by up to 70%, improving air quality, visibility, and final surface finish. In this gu...