How do I choose between a horizontal raised panel bit and a vertical raised panel bit?
Horizontal raised panel bits allow the panel to lie flat on the router table which provides lots of support for the panel. Also, most woodworkers find it less awkward to feed the panel when it is lying flat. However, because of the large diameter, horizontal raised panel bits require a large router (three HP or more). In contrast, the relatively small diameter of a vertical raised panel bit allows it to be used in smaller, less powerful, routers. And vertical bits can be used to shape a panel which is curved across the face.
