Hello all,
Thought I would throw in my thoughts.
While I will agree with Gabel and the other hand tool users out there that is a valid way to cut housings (more peaceful too) and it is also valid to have a template or the beloved housing router.
However, I prefer free hand use of the router and with time I have gotten better with the half moon error. I think the key is finding the pattern that works well for the wood and thus grain. Also not taking too much wood at one time is also the trouble and the art of it.
I find I only need a sharp bit, dust mask, face shield, hearing protection, eye protection and of course my good ole' Hitachi router.
Brice
Brice