23pc hickory 1/4" shank router bits for $27

[ezland00]

who makes the best router bits that can last for long period of time?

[LCHIEN]

Fine Woodworking Router bit test

who makes the best router bits that can last for long period of time?

http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/pages/w00045.asp

Fine woodworking magazine ran this very objective test where they used a programmed CNC router to cut consistent speed grooves in melamine with a straight router bit, using the chipouts per inch as a measure of cut quality. Doing so they were able to measure both initial cut quality and usable lifetime. As an engineer I really appreciated and admired the way they ran this test.

The Whiteside bits that have long been rumored to be the Cadillacs of the router bit world clearly scored best, which in my mind solidified their reputation. They are also the most expensive bit maker, which makes sense that old adage, you know.

There were some surprising results - MLCS scored pretty well with reasonable prices. Othere were pretty crappy. The problem with router bits is they all look so much the same, same form, fit and function there is little to go on but there are vast differences in prices and performance due to materials choice and processes.

They did not test any no-name bits (like you often get at eBay) I imagine since they can't guarantee any repeat performances much less a consistent supply.

My conclusions from reading this is that you may get some good surprises buying cheap stuff, but its not very likely. You can also get some bad surprises buying good stuff. I think a further lesson is that even a manufacturer of good roundover bits (just an random example) may make a really bad straight bit (like the Jesada in the test). So given how hard it is to judge router bits from mere appearance, stick to the names you know to be reputable (not just well known names). Me, I've decided to stick to MLCS for a combination of quality and reasonable prices (and good customer support) even though I've judged Whiteside to be the "best".

I do note, but have not taken advantage of, Woodcraft's monthly sale of a Whiteside bit. Maybe a good way to build a set of Whitesides.

[DUD]

I had a need for a profile a few years ago, went to Lowe's. I bought a small set that had the bit I needed. It broke on the 1st board. I mean it broke off the shaft. I took them back. Bill