Cutting Bearing Edges & Snare Beds

This is not a "how to" video. It simply shows the process of cutting edges and beds.

[@pstosur]

You have to get on that will fit the router that you're using. I'm using a Freud 40-118 45-Degree Chamfer Router Bit with 1/2-Inch Shank. I use a 60 degree bit for bass drums.

[@pstosur]

For lacquer we wait until after the finish is on. Usually a few days to a week later when the finish has hardened a bit. For wrap we'll cut them before application. We then use a special tool (not a file) to trim the wrap below the edge.

[@pstosur]

This actually a converted shaper table we had in our cabinet shop. You'll have to buy a router and build your own table. You can also buy pre made router tables online. You're probably looking at around $200-$500 depending on how fancy you want to get.

[@Biggermanalways]

How are you confirming that the bearing edge is perfectly round? cause it looks somewhat haphazard.

[@pstosur]

It's an offset 45 which means the counter cut is more shallow than the inner cut. The counter cut is roughly 3/32" to 1/8" depending on the ply configuration and type of drum.

[@pstosur]

I cut the outside and inside down at the same time taking off about one ply at a time. When I get the outside where I want it, I just continue taking off more on the inside.

[@wmcrash]

@Biggermanalways Before you cut the edge, you true the edge. That makes it perfectly straight, though one can carelessly screw that up while cutting the edge.

[@pstosur]

We us a special jig with template. They're pretty costly. If you aren't making snare drums for people all the time, I recommend using a file.

[@pstosur]

Here's part 2 of answers... The edge will only be cut to the height-depth that you set the bit to come out of the table. The bit has a bearing on it, so it rolls along the surface of the shell for perfect cuts on every pass. There are 2 ways to do your snare beds. 1.) Make a template, trace it onto the drum, then file it in. Or... 2.) Use a bearing edge jig. The bit has a bearing on the bottom of it that runs along the contour of your template on the jig.

[@morganix007]

Can someone explain to me how to set the router for the snare beds? Thanx. I'm gonna try building a staves snare. Wish me luck!

[@derrickFTEOS]

How do you know how high to set up the router bit when you are doing the bearing edges? Or I guess what is the process to getting it set right?

[@morganix007]

@pstosur Thanx man! I already did the bearing edges with a file!!!

[@Vicfirth1989]

What router bit are using?

[@pstosur]

Here are all the answers to your questions.. The bit is a 45° chamfer bit. However, it isn't what I use for all drums. I'm using a shaper table that's been converted to a router table. The edges on this particular shell are cut on an offset 45. If i'm recutting edges for someone I may have to use 60°, 35°, 30°, or 1/16th-1/8th-3/16 round over bits. Depends on the situation.

[@pstosur]

Cut off a little bit at a time until you get it down to the amount of plies you want to shave off. i usually start with the outside first.

[@howycwap]

do you guys do it before or after finishing the drum? (lacquer finishes in particular)

[@webstercat]

What is the size of the router bit? I know there are many choice that cut a variety of angles. Which do you use for bearing edges?

[@pstosur]

It's actually a shaper converted to a router table.

[@DangerousDrummerDado]

Hello! Do you cut bearing edges on the snare beds and how do you do it? By hand or by a machine?

[@pstosur]

Sweet!!

[@micahkorson7218]

Where did you get this router table? How much would it set me back to buy one and start doing my own edges?

[@dunnettclassicdrums]

One of the most dangerous snare bed jigs I've ever seen. Nothing like inserting a piece of steel close to a high RPM router bit. I guess it works...until it doesn't. I would never use anything so poorly designed and dangerous in my shop.

[@perniculous]

dunnettclassicdrums ...because you don't know how to do anything, you hire it all out.

[@pstosur]

Thanks!!

[@reloud37]

How's the tool called you use to make the bearing edge's?

[@pstosur]

I'm using a Grizzly G1026 3 HP Shaper with all the components removed from the table.

[@manoloculiao]

it's a double 45° ?

[@dustincoquat1066]

What kind of machine is that? Could anyone clue me in please

[@sabian1hhx1only]

Woooo go Phil lol.

[@howycwap]

@reloud37 ROUTER. with a 45 degree bit

[@pstosur]

You cut the edges first, then the snare beds.

[@howycwap]

ah, I see, thanks!

[@pstosur]

Snare beds shouldn't be cut with a router unless you have a jig with template. A file's your best bet. You should first decide how deep, and what style, then draw it on the drum. If you like what you see, file away!

[@pstosur]

***** If i understand correctly, you want to cut a dual edge with your apex in the center? As far as I know there isn't a 50 degree bit available. Typically edges cut in this fashion are cut on what's called a dual 45. You aren't really going to notice a difference in sound with a 5 degree difference. The width of the actual bearing edge dictates the sound.

[@flamabacon]

router table