Taking the plunge: newbie routing question

[LCHIEN]

How can you tell if its on there? Can you see it? If it is on there, how do you most easily get it off?

Oh, you can definitely see it. Its at least 1/8" thick and covers all of the cutting end of the bit but not the shank.

You can also feel it - its soft, not hard. No sharp edges.
Its rubbery and you can break it with a fingernail and peel it off.
Sort of like an orange skin, but more crumbly.
It doesn't really adhere much to the metal but does surround and cover it.

Its purpose is to prevent rust, and maybe keep the end user from cutting himself (I dunno about that, it makes it more likely you'll cut yourself removing it) and perhaps cushion the delicate carbide tips in shipping and handling.

[wreckwriter]

Thanks Loring. I don't think my set has this but will double-check before I use!