Any router bits (or other methods) for cutting binding channels that aren't super expensive?

[Astro_Not]

Hi! I'm preparing to start work on a guitar and I would like to bind it, but most of the rabbeting router bits that can cut thin enough (I'm good with anything 1-3 mm) for binding channels are $50+. I'm trying to keep costs down, so does anyone know of any alternative that would be cheaper than buying one of those bits that also wouldn't add too much complexity/difficulty? 

Also, I'm very new to all of this so please excuse my naivete. 

Thanks, and have a great day! 

[Bizman62]

Hi and welcome!

Most often the routing is done by leaning the router on the top with a tip bearing router bit. Thus the cutting depth depends on the bearing which should be easily swapped to a desired size, the actual bit "can" be of any diameter. The bearing rolls along the side of the guitar and the difference of the diameters between the bearing and the bit defines the depth of the cut.

There's also dremel tools that instead of a bearing have a solid depth stop to prevent the router bit to cut too deep, they also lean on the side.

And there's Ye Olde Skool method of using hand tools like chisels and marking gauges.

 

[Astro_Not]

Great, thank you! Hopefully I can start building soon(ish). Have a nice day!