Editing Mortiser (section)

==Other methods of cutting mortises==
[[Image:Reuleaux triangle Animation.gif|frame|right|The Reuleaux triangle rotating inside a constant sized square]]
Traditionally, a mortise would be cut by hand, using a [[chisel]] and [[mallet]].  However, due to the precision of fit required for a mortise and tenon joint, this can be a difficult and time-consuming task. 

Other tools such as a [[Wood router|router]] could be used for the task, but the router usually requires special attachments, jigs or templates and the router bit leaves rounded corners that might need to be squared by hand with a chisel.  Alternatively, the tenon can be rounded with a [[rasp]] to achieve an equally strong joint.

For cutting small mortises, a normal [[drill bit]] can be used.  However, for larger mortises, a common type of bit in modern mortisers is a Harry Watt square drill bit, in which a bit with a [[Reuleaux triangle]] cross section is allowed to "wobble" while it rotates within a square with rounded corners{{citation-needed|date=September 2018}}.  This type of bit removes all but the corners of the material to be removed, leaving very little to be cut by the chisel.