Signmakers’ Toolkit: Top CNC Bits for HDU, PVC, & Aluminum
Table of Contents
- Precision Matters: Choosing the Right Router Bits for Professional CNC Signmaking
- Why Solid Carbide Insert Bits Outperform Traditional Tools
- Best CNC V-Groove Bits: Amana Tool® CNC V-Groove, Miter Fold & Signmaking Router Bits with Solid Carbide Insert Knives
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- Need Multiple Angles? Get the AMS-150 4-Pc Signmaking Bit Set
- How to Make a 2 Color CNC Sign | ToolsToday Video
- Starter Kit: SIGN-004 CNC Signmaking Essentials Pack
- Wrap-Up: Better Bits, Better Signs
- FAQs
Precision Matters: Choosing the Right Router Bits for Professional CNC Signmaking
Whether you're routing HDU for monument signage, carving dimensional PVC lettering, or cutting aluminum composite panels, your results are only as good as your tooling. Clean cuts, crisp edges, and minimal sanding aren't just nice-to-haves—they’re essential for professional signmakers.
That's why so many shops are switching to solid carbide insert CNC bits. These tools deliver unmatched durability and performance, especially when you’re running high-output jobs or working with a range of modern sign materials.
Why Solid Carbide Insert Bits Outperform Traditional Tools
Insert tooling isn’t just a convenience—it’s a money saver. Instead of replacing an entire brazed bit when it dulls, you just swap the insert. And because the inserts are made from harder grades of carbide, you get smoother cuts and longer tool life.
- Replaceable inserts = lower long-term costs
- Specially ground angles reduce material buildup at the V-point
- Consistent edge quality over time—no surprises mid-job
- At least 4 times longer tool life than brazed bits
Insert bits are especially useful when working with abrasive materials like PVC or HDU, where conventional bits dull quickly.
Long lasting insert knives provide superior, smooth quality cuts every time. Insert tooling allows for harder grades of carbide. Cost effective solution compared to replacing brazed router bits.Best CNC V-Groove Bits: Amana Tool® CNC V-Groove, Miter Fold & Signmaking Router Bits with Solid Carbide Insert Knives
Full Angle Range, Clean Results, Industrial Strength
When you're routing signs with precise angles or dimensional effects, you need the right V-groove for the job. These V-Groove bits from Amana Tool® offer angles from 40° to 160°—perfect for everything from deep engraving to fine detail work.
See Matt's Degrees of a V-Groove Bit to determine which angle(s) you need.
These bits feature a unique tool body design that eliminates chip buildup at the point, reducing cleanup and boosting precision.
Excellent for cutting: High Density Urethane (HDU), PVC, aluminum composite panels, wood, and more.
Need Multiple Angles? Get the AMS-150 4-Pc Signmaking Bit Set
If you're engraving logos, 3D lettering, or switching between materials often, the Amana Tool AMS-150 4-Pc V-Groove Bit Set is a smart buy. It includes 45°, 60°, 90°, and 120° bits—all with solid carbide inserts—for maximum versatility and precision.
Instead of guessing which angle works best for a particular job, you’ll have the most common options at your fingertips. This set is especially popular with signmakers doing everything from ADA signage to multi-depth routing.
How to Make a 2 Color CNC Sign | ToolsToday Video
Learn more using our Downloadable & Customizable Nautical Wheel CNC Plans
Starter Kit: SIGN-004 CNC Signmaking Essentials Pack
The SIGN-004 Signmaking Essentials Pack includes everything you need to start routing two-color signs with clean, crisp detail:
This pack is a popular choice for signmakers doing paint-filled routing jobs, two-tone dimensional lettering, and even CNC masking for airbrushing or spray applications.
Matt explains how get the best results from Oramask in his post Top 5 Items for CNC Sign Making.
Wrap-Up: Better Bits, Better Signs
Whether you’re routing HDU, PVC, aluminum composite, or wood, choosing the right bit saves time, reduces waste, and improves your final product. With long-lasting insert tooling and the right accessories, you can offer sharper results at lower operating costs.
Explore our full collection of CNC signmaking bits and kits to see how you can level up your shop—one clean cut at a time.
FAQs
What are the best CNC router bits for HDU signmaking?
For High Density Urethane (HDU), the best CNC router bits are solid carbide insert V-groove bits. They stay sharp longer when cutting abrasive materials like HDU and produce crisp, clean lines ideal for dimensional lettering and 3D signs. ToolsToday offers a full range of insert bits from 40° to 160°, perfect for deep engraving or fine detail work.
Can I use the same CNC bit for PVC, aluminum, and wood signs?
Yes—solid carbide insert router bits are designed to handle multiple signmaking materials, including PVC, aluminum composite panels, and wood. Their replaceable inserts and durable construction make them a cost-effective choice for shops working across materials without changing tooling frequently.
Why should I choose insert router bits over traditional brazed bits?
Insert router bits offer several key advantages: you only replace the cutting insert, not the entire tool; they’re made from harder carbide grades for longer life; and they maintain a consistent edge profile. They’re especially helpful in sign shops looking to reduce tooling costs while maintaining clean, repeatable results.
What V-groove angles should I use for CNC signmaking?
Common V-groove angles for signmaking include 45°, 60°, 90°, and 120°, each suited for different levels of detail and depth. The Amana Tool AMS-150 set includes all four, making it easy to switch between styles or test which angle gives the best results for your project.
What’s the easiest way to get started with CNC signmaking?
If you're just starting out, the SIGN-004 CNC Signmaking Essentials Pack is a great all-in-one solution. It includes a 90° solid carbide insert V-groove bit, stencil film, a weeding tool, and a spreader—everything you need to create crisp, paint-filled or two-color routed signs with your CNC.
