To free a router bit stuck in the collet, use your bench vise to help you pull it out without breaking your bit.
Every so often, router bits get stuck in their collets — especially with older collets that aren’t self-releasing. But, don’t be tempted to grab a pliers, or you could quickly ruin an expensive bit. Instead, I unplug the router, loosen the collet nut and clamp the bit between the wooden jaws of my bench vise. Then, it’s a simple matter of lifting the router carefully up and off the bit.
