Freud 16-098 15/32" (Dia.) Mortising Bit is engineered for precision mortises that stay clean from start to finish. Built to handle plywood, veneer, solid wood, and virtually any composite, this bit delivers tight fitting hinges and hardware without the tear-out you dread on tougher materials.

Key advantages that set this mortising bit apart:

• Down-shear geometry pushes wood fibers downward as you cut, dramatically reducing splintering and minimizing tear-out on delicate surfaces.
• Deep center gullets maximize material removal and maintain a smooth cutting action, helping you avoid chip loading even in denser woods.
• 15/32" diameter optimized for precise mortises, grooves, and dadoes, making it an excellent choice for hinge mortises and other hardware installations.
• Versatile compatibility designed for use in both CNC machines and portable routers, giving you flexibility across shop setups.

What you can accomplish with the Freud 16-098

• Accurate hinge mortises and hardware receptacles that align perfectly with their fittings.
• Clean grooves and dadoes in a variety of woods and composites for cabinetry, built-ins, and maintenance projects.
• Consistent mortising performance on plywood and veneer where edge quality matters as much as fit.

Who benefits most

Carpenters, cabinetmakers, furniture builders, and DIY enthusiasts who demand precise, splinter-free mortises and versatile tooling. If you regularly route hinges, hardware, grooves, or dadoes, this bit helps you achieve professional results with less rework.

How it compares and why it matters

Compared to standard mortising bits, the Freud 16-098 leverages down-shear design and deep center gullets to reduce tear-out and improve material removal efficiency. That means sharper fits, fewer chipped edges, and faster setup times—especially when working with plywood, veneer, or composite materials where surface quality is critical.

Practical tips for best results

• Clamp workpieces securely and use a brad point pilot or center guide to ensure clean entry and exit of the cut.
• Feed at a steady, moderate rate to leverage the bit’s geometry for minimal tear-out and smoother finish.
• When working with multi-pass mortises, start with a shallow depth and progressively deepen to the final size for the cleanest cut.
• Apply minimal lateral pressure on delicate substrates to avoid edge breakout, especially near veneer surfaces.

Choose the Freud 16-098 15/32" Mortising Bit for reliable, professional-grade mortises that hold hardware securely and look superb from edge to surface. A smart addition to any shop that values precision, efficiency, and durable performance in a single, versatile bit.