Compass Roller Guides RG-1/RG-2 FAQ: When should I use RG-1 instead of RG-2 or vice versa?

Created by Gabriel Izzo, Modified on Mon, 18 May at 8:17 PM by Gabriel Izzo

Compass Roller Guides · FAQ

When Should I Use the RG-1 Instead of the RG-2, or Vice Versa?

Both the RG-1 and RG-2 roller guides are designed to enhance woodworking safety and precision, but they cater to different stock sizes. The right choice depends on the thickness of the material you work with most often and the specific demands of your setup.

At a Glance

RG-1 Roller Guide

Stock Range 1/16" – 2"

Rollers Single set

Height Shorter profile

Best For Thinner stock, dedicated machines, L-shaped moldings where the lip can pass over the rollers 1" height, cost-effective multi-unit setups

RG-2 Roller Guide

Stock Range 1/16" – 4"

Rollers Two sets (taller)

Height Taller profile

Best For Larger stock up to 4", robust kickback resistance, L-shaped moldings where the lip can pass over the rollers 2" height, general-purpose versatile setups

Choosing the Right Guide

Stock Size

The most important factor is the thickness of the stock you typically use. The RG-2 handles stock from 1/16" up to 4", making it the more versatile option for larger material. The RG-1 is optimized for stock up to 2", making it the practical choice for those who primarily work with thinner material.

Kickback Resistance

For mostly square stock where kickback resistance is a priority, the RG-2's additional set of rollers and taller profile provide more robust support and guidance for larger materials.

Specific Scenarios — Shaped Moldings Example

When working on a router table shaping the side of an L-shaped molding, if the molding's lip facing the rollers is shorter than the RG-2's minimum grip height, the RG-2 may not effectively grip and contact the molding with even pressure as the workpiece is fed. In such cases, the RG-1 is more appropriate due to its lower minimum height requirement.

Cost Considerations

If your projects typically involve stock smaller than 2", it may be more economical to purchase multiple RG-1 units — especially when setting up dedicated machines for specific tasks where the larger RG-2 capacity isn't needed.

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RG-1 vs. RG-2 — Size & Profile Comparison

The choice between RG-1 and RG-2 ultimately depends on the specific requirements of your projects — including stock size, machine type, and the features of the workpieces you handle. When in doubt, the RG-2 offers the most versatility, while the RG-1 excels in precision applications with thinner stock or shaped moldings.

Still not sure which roller guide is right for your setup? Please contact our support team.