A favourite of CNC enthusiasts is to 3D carve and a ball nose router bit allows you to do just that. These are a great entry level bits as the are value for money compared to tapered ball nose. The radius = 1/2 of the diameter with no flat bottom. These bits can also be used to engrave lettering.
Suitable for
- Plastics (ABS, acrylic, HPDE etc.)
- Wood (MDF, hardwood)
- Wood (Ply & softwoods)
Adam’s Tips
Cutting against the grain reduces fuzzy material forming in your carve. This can be set in your 3D carving software under the term "raster".
Best for
- Budget 3D relief carving in hardwood, softwood, ply, MDF, acrylic, ABS and HDPE
- Finishing passes after roughing with a flat end mill
- Engraving lettering with a rounded groove
Not for
- Very fine detail: use the tapered ball nose
- Aluminium and steel: use the DLC, HRC45 or TiSiN ball nose
Adam's Tip
Choose the largest radius that still fits the finest detail in your model, since smaller radii need a smaller stepover and take longer. Cut across the grain in timber to reduce fuzz.
Buying guide: Ball Nose vs Tapered Ball Nose for 3D Carving
41 Reviews Hide Reviews Show Reviews
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Awesome bits
Great Quality& pricing and super fast Delivery
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Up/Down Cut Compression
work as it should just make sure your settings are right it as makes the job much better
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Ball Nose
work as it should just make sure your settings are right it as makes the job much better
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2 Flute BALL NOSE Carbide Mill (for 3D Carving)
Been using this bit everyday now for a few weeks. Its still sharp and carving clean. Great value for money
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Milling Bits
Great works as expected and great delivery
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Excellent quality. Excellent Service.
As always the quality is first class with competitive pricing and excellent service.
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Initial bit for CNC machine
Found it worked as expected during my learning and testing stages in CNC engraving
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2 Flute Up Cut Aluminium End
Always great service and products from Adam's Bits.
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2 flute ball nose
Cuts very well. Recommended. Good service too.
