WARNING

You must read and understand these

instructions before using the
Drum Foundry Snare Bed Cutter. Failure
to use this tool in the prescribed manner
can result in injury.

Always wear eye and ear protection

when working with power tools.

Only for use by

experienced router operators.
 The Drum Foundry Snare Bed Cutter

Part Descriptions

SNARE BED TEMPLATE SIDE SUPPORTS TEMPLATE

ATTACHMENT
SCREWS
TEMPLATE ID

JIG BASE

SQUARING GUIDE SHELL DEPTH RULER

SHELL DEPTH
INDICATOR ARROW

HANDLE LOCKING KNOB SLIDING SHELL CLAMP

 Standard Snare Template Shapes
Printed to actual size. The measurements indicate the preset dimensions
of the template when the indicator arrow is set to the exact shell depth. Templates may be used
to make beds slightly deeper/wider or shallower/narrower. See directions for complete information.

Template A - Smooth arc, 8 inches wide, 3/32” deep

Template B - Smooth arc, 6 inches wide, 1/8” deep

Template C - Flat shape, 3 inches wide on flat part, 5/8” wide ramps on ends, 1/8” deep
 Requirements for using the DF Snare Bed Cutter
You must have a router with a ½" diameter collet that is mounted in a router table. You must be
able to insert the router bit into the collet at least 1 inch and still be able to raise the bit so the
bearing is above the router table. Do not use any other bit than the included bit. Replacement
bits can be purchased from Drum Foundry.

Setting up the router bit in the router table

1. Before inserting the router bit into the collet, remove the collet and clean all dirt and dust
from the collet and the router.
2. Insert the router bit with at least 1 inch of shank in the collet. Do not “bottom out” this or
any other router bit in a router. The collet pulls down on the bit to tighten it, and if the bit
is already at the bottom of the collet then there is danger of the bit becoming loose.
3. Mount the router in the table so the bearing on the router bit is in full contact with the
template.

Bearing contacts template

 Setting up the shell in the jig and using the standard templates
1. We suggest that your bearing edges are already cut on your shell before you cut the
snare bed. Mark the exact center of your snare beds on both sides.

2. Measure the exact height of your shell. Set the arrow on the sliding clamp to the height
of your shell and tighten the locking knob. Matching up these two measurements will cut
the snare bed to the preset width and depth of the template.

Set arrow to
shell depth

Tighten
knob

3. Loosen the knobs on the side supports and slide toward the outer edges of the base.
4. Place the shell under the clamp and push the edge fully against the squaring guide.
Match up the center mark on your shell with the center mark on the template. Clamp
down the shell and check that the bearing edge is flush against the squaring guide.
Excessive clamp tension is not necessary, and may overflex and distort the base of the
jig.

5. Push the side supports firmly into the shell so the rubber bumper makes full contact
with the shell, and tighten the side support locking knobs.
 IMPORTANT!
Before cutting the snare bed, double check that
all knobs are secure and the shell is stable.

Check that you have set the

measurement correctly and
the shell is not too far out over
the template. The router bit
bearing must contact template
before the cutting edges touch
the shell.

4. Start the router motor with the jig at a safe distance away from the blades. The base is
marked with a “BEGIN” and “END”. This will ensure that you are always cutting in the
correct and safe direction in relation to the router bit rotation.

DO NOT use a climb cut by starting at the side marked “END”! You will not achieve any
better results by doing so, and it is much more dangerous.
5. Begin the cut by sliding the jig against the router bit at the “BEGIN” end of the template.
Slowly slide the jig from right to left and cut the snare bed shape. It should only take
one pass to cut the snare bed shape.

6. The snare bed shape is now cut, and you may finish it by rounding over the sharp
edges with a file or sandpaper.

If you have any questions about the use of your Snare Bed Cutter, please call us at 616-879-
0429. You may also email questions to info@drumfoundry.com.

Drum Foundry LLC

11114 James St.
Zeeland, MI 49464

www.drumfoundry.com