Replies

1. 
   flairwoodworks | Jun 29, 2008 06:28am | #1

   1/2" shank router bits have more than twices the mass of a 1/4" shank bit.  Therefore, they are more stable and less prone to flexing.  I use a 1/2" whenever possible.  However, some bits are only available with a 1/4" shank, such as one of the most useful - the hinge mortising bit.  Smaller diameter bits are fine to use with a 1/4" shank, but I feel a little safer using the same bits with a 1/2" shank.  Larger bits, such as panel raising bits, are only available with 1/2" shanks.

   Regarding set of router bits, you could buy a set and get a good $ per bit price, but many of the bits you may never use.  To start, get a couple straight bits, straight plunge bits for mortising (have a look at spiral bits), and some common profile bits such as chamfer, roundover, cove, etc.

   On whether you buy the dovetail bit set or just individual bits depends on how much dovetailling you plan to do.  Have a look in the Leigh manual at which bits do what.  Will you ever dovetail 1-1/2" thick stock?  As an aside, Leigh's bits have 3/8" shanks, so you will need to use an adapter for your 1/2" collet.  Some manufacturer's bits are 1/4" shank.  I'd stick with the bits that come with the jig and buy them as you need them.

   Chris @ www.flairwoodwork.spaces.live.com

    - Success is not the key to happines.  Happiness is the key to success.  If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. - Albert Schweitzer

1. 
   Wingdoctor | Jun 30, 2008 03:06pm | #5

   I agree with everything you say about the 1/2" bits. The only correction that needs to be made is on the size of Leigh Jig bits; they are 8mm and not 3/8". :<) OK?

   Bruce"A man's got to know his limitations." Dirty Harry Calahan

1. 
   flairwoodworks | Jul 01, 2008 02:57am | #7

   Bruce,

   You're right.  I knew they were an odd size, but guessed wrong.Chris @ http://www.flairwoodwork.spaces.live.com

    - Success is not the key to happines.  Happiness is the key to success.  If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. - Albert Schweitzer

2. 
   MDCustom | Jun 29, 2008 07:33am | #2

   flairwoodworks is right on the money in my opinion. I started using 1/4" bits years ago as that was all my first router could handle. Since purchasing a 1/2" machine, I find that I am only purchasing 1/2" bits as I add or replace old ones. They are generally safer as they are sturdier. The only exception for me is the smaller straight cutting bits - 1/8" to 1/4".... with the larger shank they look like they can snap as they taper to the cutting surface. For these smaller bits, I prefer the smaller shank.

3. 
   James R. | Jun 29, 2008 08:39am | #3

   Moataz:

   I have four routers.  A Porter Cable for my router table, a Dewalt, the Festool 1400, and a Bosch trim router.  All have both 1/4" & 1/2" except the Bosch.  Any time I can I use the 1/2".  But I also use the 1/4" if I don't have it in the 1/2" size.  The point is, use what you have and buy anything new in the 1/2".

   I also have the Liegh dovetail jig and as much as I like the 1400 router I prefer the dewalt for routing the dovetails because of the transparent baseplate.  Visually the 1400 is more trouble on the jig, for me at least.  The Leigh is a great jig.

   Good routing, Jim

4. 
   BioHaz1906 | Jun 29, 2008 11:53pm | #4

   MSW,

   You must be an extremely wealthy/lucky man to own two Festool routers.  Go with the 1/2 shanks because they will vibrate less and I think that inherently increases safety. 

5. 
   Knotscott | Jun 30, 2008 10:02pm | #6

   1/2" is the way to go whenever possible.

   Sets can be a good investment, but I'd suggest a high quality set of fewer bits rather than lower quality with a high number of bits....Whiteside, Infinity, Freud, etc.