Review on Freud Panel Pilot Shank 28 104: Precision Cutting Tool for Smooth Panel Surfaces by Johnny Pigao

Excellent cutter for making door and window openings in wood paneling. I used it to carve a door out of a doghouse and also cut out three windows and a door in my barn. Since it doesn't have a ball bearing to drive it will leave a burn line on your carcass wood, but that's not really a problem for most applications as your door, window or trim will cover that burn line. It's a great time saver and gives great results, highly recommend! A few tips: 1) Always cut clockwise, otherwise the bit may dangle, slip and wander. 2) When you cut holes it's hard to tell from the outside where the window or door is supposed to be because you're only looking at the side panel. Go inside, take a 1/4 inch drill bit and drill a hole in the trim at the corners of the door or window opening. This will give you a visual reference when you get back outside to cut a hole with your router. 3) No need to press hard on a rough hole! Pressing enough to maintain contact reduces burning and causes less wear on your router and drill bit. 4) Best to use with a plunge router base, but not necessary. I have also used it in a solid base. Simply set the drilling depth, start the router, press the edge of the base plate against the surface and slowly rock the drill bit into the wood.