Freud 36-138 Quadra-Cut Radius Beading Bit, 1-3/8 in diameter, brings a refined bead profile and softly rounded edges to furniture and millwork with precision that professionals trust.

Engineered for clean, consistent cuts, the Quadra-Cut four-flute design delivers smoother surfaces and reduced tear-out when working with solid wood, plywood, or composites. The built-in bearing creates an inset bead at the bottom of the radius, delivering a distinct, decorative detail that adds depth and character to cabinetry, tabletops, trim, and picture frames.

Why this matters: the inset bead provides a subtle contrast and a tactile edge that reads as a high-end finish in real-world applications. The result is a professional-quality edge profile straight from your router, whether you’re finishing handrails, cabinet doors, or shelving with a touch of traditional elegance.

If your project calls for a simple rounded edge without the inset bead, you can swap in the Freud 62-104 bearing and 62-313 step washer to remove the inset detail while preserving the same cutting geometry. This flexibility makes the 36-138 a versatile tool in both decorative and practical edge treatments.

Ideal applications and use cases:

• Decorative edge bead on cabinet doors, face frames, and tabletops for a polished, designer look.
• Beading along millwork profiles, molding, and picture frames to elevate craftsmanship.
• Edge treatment for furniture components such as shelves, kickplates, and rails where a crisp bead and rounded edge are desirable.
• Projects using solid wood, plywood, or composite panels routed with handheld or router-table setups.

Practical tips for best results:

• Test on scrap stock that matches your project to confirm bead size, depth, and inset behavior before committing to the final piece.
• Maintain a steady feed rate and support long edges with a fence or straightedge to maximize consistency.
• Secure the workpiece firmly and rout in a direction that minimizes tear-out across grain transitions.