I have been using this cutter for shape cutting for years. I bought a Frueds straight flute cutter. They work well enough, but they burn wood and are quite difficult to push through templates. Although I've only made a few cuts through 1" thick mahogany with them, these bits work great. I made several passes, each 1/4" deep, and the barley had to be pressed against the cutter, it almost pulled itself out. Also, there are no burns (which prolongs life) or breakage, which is all great, but the best part is because of the coil, I think the bit doesn't produce that fine dust.