I’ve become frustrated with purchasing router bits (1/4″ & 1/2″)…even high end carbide bits…only to find that there are significant differences in sizes and tolerances. I’m mindful of the wood variety vs speed, use lubricants etc., but still find that the edges don’t hold up. I’d like an opinion or two on a manufacturer that seems to put out the best product.
I’ll be purchasing a 5HP Grizzly shaper but that’s for the larger jobs spinning larger cutters. I still need as good a router bits as I can find.
Any opinions would be appreciated!
Ralph P
Replies
Hi Ralph,
I have never done a thorough study on the quality of router bits. Generally speaking though, I have had very poor luck with inexpensive router bits.
Because I use a multi-router for most of my joinery, the size (diameter) of the bits are critical. I'm sure there are several very good brands of bits on the market , but I have found Whiteside and Amana to be consistently very good.
...Darrell
Hi Darrell,
Thanks for the input! It appears that price can be an indicator for sure. I've resigned myself to NOT purchasing online until I've purchased several bits and have some experience with the manufacturers' consistency. I recently strolled into my local woodworkers' store digital caliper in hand and walked out with some Bosch bits that were to have consistency that others lacked. That does not speak to the quality of the alloy, but does indicate the manufacturer's QA. (BTW...the store help was somewhat insensed by my caliper...??) Bearings are another consideration.
I've got Whiteside on my list to try out.
Thanks again!
Ralph
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