# Anyone used "stock" Maslow HSS bits on aluminum? **URL:** \ **Category:** Routers/Spindles\ **Created:** [May 9, 2018, 4:56pm UTC](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/t/anyone-used-stock-maslow-hss-bits-on-aluminum/3827 "2018-05-09T16:56:44Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 4\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![cwleveck](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/forums.maslowcnc.com/cwleveck/32/2846_2.png) [@cwleveck](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/u/cwleveck)\ **Post date:** [May 9, 2018, 4:56pm UTC](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/t/anyone-used-stock-maslow-hss-bits-on-aluminum/3827/1 "2018-05-09T16:56:44Z")
Well, have ya? Christopher ---
**Author:** ![MeticulousMaynard](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/forums.maslowcnc.com/meticulousmaynard/32/2744_2.png) [@MeticulousMaynard](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/u/MeticulousMaynard)\ **Post date:** [May 9, 2018, 5:14pm UTC](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/t/anyone-used-stock-maslow-hss-bits-on-aluminum/3827/2 "2018-05-09T17:14:43Z")
Not sure if you’re referring to the Maslow bits on the store (those are carbide), but if you are, the answer is yes! I used the single flute 1/4" bit to cut 0.040" aluminum. I think I did it in 3 passes if I remember correctly, but that’s mostly 'cause I was tired of breaking bits. > [@Aluminum Generator Panel](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/t/aluminum-generator-panel/1571): > > So I got my first payed job with the Maslow. My brother and I are rebuilding a generator back panel that got smashed by a negligent driver. I was tasked with making the cut-outs in the 0.040" aluminum sheets, which meant I got to try my hand at machining aluminum on a router. I’m rather pleased with the results: Still needs a little work to finish it up. We already took the edges to a break to make flanges and roll the corners. The cut-outs are for a control panel and ac… ---
**Author:** ![cwleveck](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/forums.maslowcnc.com/cwleveck/32/2846_2.png) [@cwleveck](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/u/cwleveck)\ **Post date:** [May 9, 2018, 5:32pm UTC](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/t/anyone-used-stock-maslow-hss-bits-on-aluminum/3827/3 "2018-05-09T17:32:17Z")
Those are carbide??? I need to chuck those babies up in my Lagun(Bridge)port and see what they’ll do… ---
**Author:** ![aluminumwelder](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/forums.maslowcnc.com/aluminumwelder/32/9362_2.png) [@aluminumwelder](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/u/aluminumwelder)\ **Post date:** [August 5, 2018, 4:50pm UTC](https://forums.maslowcnc.com/t/anyone-used-stock-maslow-hss-bits-on-aluminum/3827/4 "2018-08-05T16:50:39Z")
i prefer smaller 4mm bits, they are cheaper and since they are smaller they can run faster which is what you want with aluminum, nice chips, not over heated dusts. also type of aluminum is very important diamond plate or 3000 series will gum up. while 6061 is harder and easier to cut, but very hard to find. 5000 series is pretty common and inbetween the two above.