Woodworking question: using a drill as a router

[kranky]

Just trying to help out a friend, woodworking ain't my strong point.

He had new steps installed. He got a very basic set because he's going to have them carpeted. Now he finds out that he has to round off the front edge of each step using a 1/2" radius on each step because if he doesn't, the squared-off edge will wear through the carpeting. Now that the steps are already installed, we can't figure out how to round them off because a router won't reach all the way to the ends (the guide disk keeps it from reaching all the way to the wall on each side).

Isn't there a way to use a drill for this, with a special bit along with some type of guide to make sure it's cutting straight? Links to necessary tools/bits appreciated.

 

[Moonbeam]

You can use a rasp on the ends and a router in the center. Beauty isn't a problem because you are going to put carpet. Also the ends will not get foot pressure and the sharp edge shouldn't really cut the carpet.

 

[kranky]

Thanks for the suggestion, Moonbeam.

 

[T2T III]

Ideally, a belt sander would also work quite well. My belt sander can sand flush on one site. The only downfall is that you, or your friend would need a belt sander. If you lived near D.C., you could use mine.

 

[pdo]

why don't you just rent a router for like $15 a day. It'll save time and grief in the end.