My wife is so impressed with the trim work I’m doing with the new Makita CMS and the PC random orbit sander, that I thought I’d go for broke when she asked what I wanted for father’s day. “Well, I could do some really nice stuff with a better router.” Could have knocked me over with a feather when she said “OK!”
I suspect I will go with the new Bosch “combo” kit (fixed + plunge base). But I know that the real money is in the bits (will have to sneak them in, one at a time).
What are your recommendations for 1/2″ shank bits? These will not be used in a production setting, just a home shop for now. I would like to have a set of panel bits, among others. I’m looking for good value, not the very best available. Any particular mfgs. or sources stand out?
Edited 6/10/2002 1:14:23 AM ET by RUSTYCAS
Replies
Well If want the cadillac go with the CMT, Freuds are good also. I actually use the Woodline Arizona bits alot. In fact there about all I buy any more.
Darkworksite4: When the job is to small for everyone else, Its just about right for me"
I think it's a mistake to buy inexpensive bits. They often have divots and burrs on the cutting edges. Also, if you get the cheap-assed ones from China, you are jeopardising your safety.
I like the Whiteside line. They are well made and many swear by them. Bite the bullet and get good bits.
JMHO
Ken Hill
Oh, I wouldn't think of buying cheap bits. I don't buy "cheap" anything anymore. But some good bits are less expensive than others. Some tools really ARE worth the premium price paid, but many are just overpriced. Just trying to find a brand of good bits, reasonably priced.
I havent had any problems with these yet. Yet being the operative word here. I buy mostly edge forming bits from the round overs , ogees ect from them like I said they do a good job and no problems yet. Darkworksite4: When the job is to small for everyone else, Its just about right for me"
The bit I buy most often is Amana. I finally found a place about 25 minutes away that has a great selection in stock. I've always heard good things about Whiteside and CMT.
Jesada gave CMT a bit (no pun intended) of a bad rep a few years ago when Jesada (then they called themselves "CMT") essentially ripped off the CMT name, logo, and bit color. They sold their bits for years under the "CMT" name. A few years ago they were finally forced to change their name (to Jesada) and bit color (to white). Jesada's quality has been inconsistant in my opinion. I bought a few bits off them a few years ago before I found the local Amana dealer, and sent them all back after using them.
I do have several Freud bits, since they're readily available at a local woodworking store. I think they're okay. My impression is they used to be better...though it may just be that I've raised my standards.
If I could only buy from one manufacturer, it would be Amana.
Depends more on the application than anything really. If I`m milling some custom mouldings I pay the price. CMT, Frued, Bosch.
If I`m trimming laminate or rabbeting drawer boxes I try and save a $ here and there. Amana really is a good bit for the money. Not the best bit money can buy, but certain tasks dont require it.
J. D. Reynolds
Home Improvements
"DO IT RIGHT, DO IT ONCE"
Have to agree with Mongo I buy only Amana bits, they seem to stay sharp the longest of all I've used.
amana or whiteside
I've never used the Amanna or Whiteside but will keep my eyes open.
I agree that Freud used to be better than now.
I seem to have mostly Freud and Bosch and no major complaints with them.
I used to buy some cheaper ones from MLCS until the cutter slid off of one and clipped my earlobe. A couple inches different and it'd been my carotid artery!
Excellence is its own reward!
I used to like Freud and Bosch are great, it is just easier to find amanna and whiteside here where I am, you pretty much get what you pay for with router bits.
Nooooooooooooooo!!! Get one of the Porter Cables instead. Great power, balance and bearings. If you are planning on getting just one, go for the 3 1/4 hp one - it may be a bit heavier, but you can use it for most anything, especially in router tables.
I currently have two 1 1/2 hp PC routers, one 3 1/4 hp PC, a 3 hp Hitachi, and a Hitachi laminate router. If I had to get rid of any but one, I would keep the 3 1/4 hp PC.
I prefer the Amana bits. they have great quality carbide, are sharpenable many times, and have lasted me well. Always choose the 1/2" shank whenever you have a choice. There will be less vibration, and (probably) never breakage. Less vibes = higher quality cuts.
Above all, avoid the yellow Viper bits that Home Desperate sells. They are cheaply made and do not hold up well. A Viper 1/4" shank bit was the only one that I ever broke while doing a run.