Router Bits

[shane_c]

I've always been interested in wood working but only recently have started getting some tools. So far I have a scroll saw, table saw, compressor w/ brad nailer, and will soon have a drill press and router with table. I was looking at a set of bits on Ebay and was wondering if they are a good variety or if they are just a bunch of useless bits that would never get used. I'm also going to pick up a set of rail and stile bits and the other big one that is used for making raised cabinet doors.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/50-Pc-Router-Bit-...item25584b4018
Set includes:

10 x straight: 1/8", 5/32", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 14mm, 18mm, 20mm
- 1 x combination bevel: 1/2"
- 1 x mortising: 1/2"
- 1 x classical: 1/2"
- 1 x keyhole: 3/8"
- 3 x corebox: 1/8"R, 3/16"R, 1/4"R
- 2 x round nose: 3/16"R, 1/4"R
- 2 x 60° V-groove: 3/8", 5/8"
- 2 x 90° V-groove: 3/8", 1/2"
- 4 x dovetail: 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4"
- 1 x panel pilot: 1/4"
- 4 x flush trim: 3/8" x 1/2', 3/8" x 1", 1/2" x 1/2", 1/2" x 1"
- 2 x cove: 1/4", 3/8"
- 4 x roundover: 1/8", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8"
- 4 x beading: 1/8", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8"
- 2 x roman ogee: 5/32", 1/4"
- 1 x 25° chamfer: 5/8"
- 1 x 45° chamfer: 1-1/8"
- 2 x slot cutter: 1/4", 3/8"
- 1 x rabbeting: 1/2"
- 1 x classical cove: 5/16"

Made from high quality carbon steel and tipped with tungsten carbide. The carbide is precision ground to give consistent clean cuts while maintaining a sharp edge. Majority of bits are chip limiting style that offers more safety than regular bits and provides a better balance.

[firebug]

If you are using raised panel bits, make sure you have a multi-speed router.

I picked up a 40-piece 'Maximum' set from Canadian Tire when the went on sale for 70% off and have been satisfied with my purchase, but bought a Freud flush trim bit at full price.

You may want to check out the Canadian Woodworking forums for advice.

As with most things, you get what you pay for with router bits. A big multi-set is fine to make sure you have the pieces to do any odd job you are interested in. However purchasing a good Freud (or other quality brand) bit for common tasks is worthwhile.

~bug

[Stranger]

For that price I don't think you can go wrong. Even if you only get a few years out of them they'd still be worth the money.

[shane_c]

Originally Posted by firebug

If you are using raised panel bits, make sure you have a multi-speed router.

I picked up a 40-piece 'Maximum' set from Canadian Tire when the went on sale for 70% off and have been satisfied with my purchase, but bought a Freud flush trim bit at full price.

You may want to check out the Canadian Woodworking forums for advice.

As with most things, you get what you pay for with router bits. A big multi-set is fine to make sure you have the pieces to do any odd job you are interested in. However purchasing a good Freud (or other quality brand) bit for common tasks is worthwhile.

~bug

Thanks, I've been looking at that Canadian Tire bit set too. It seems to go on sale every couple weeks. My parents came across a Freud Router with Table combo from Home Depot a few weeks ago for 50% off so $250 instead of $500 so they picked it up for me. It's 3-1/4 hp so will be more than adequate.

[firebug]

Originally Posted by shane_c

Thanks, I've been looking at that Canadian Tire bit set too. It seems to go on sale every couple weeks. My parents came across a Freud Router with Table combo from Home Depot a few weeks ago for 50% off so $250 instead of $500 so they picked it up for me. It's 3-1/4 hp so will be more than adequate.

Damn, I watched that Freud table for months waiting for it to go on sale. It is a fine piece of kit.

My best gloat from HD was a Ridgid 3650 table saw for $300 (display model).

This is the set I picked up from CT for 70% off, and it seems okay.

~bug

[shane_c]

It's just that it is a small store where they live and I guess they can't move the big named stuff. So they have it on clearance and once the more expensive things are gone they will only bring in the lower priced brands. The HD here in Halifax still has it for $500 (no sale here).