which router bits to get?

[JimD]

C4 carbide is the hardest but is not typically used in router bits, presumably because it is more prone to chipping.

For most bits, I use MLCS. They have free shipping, which I really like, and I have found their quality to be good. If I order a bit early in the week, I typically have it by the weekend. The only router bits I have broken have been little bits only available with a 1/4 inch shank. The dovetail bit, for instance, that you use with a typical fixed spacing dovetail jig - I believe it is 1/2 diameter (at the tip of the cutting end) with a 14 degree angle. This bit has a diameter less than 1/4 inch where it joins to the shank and can't be 1/2 inch because it would then not go through the 7/16 template bushing. The last one of these I bought was a CMT. It works fine. I would not hessitate to use a Whiteside and might try MLCS's premium brand but I will not use the "lessor" bits for this application since I broke one. For most stuff, the cheaper bits work well for me. This particular bit is pretty inexpensive no matter what brand you get. For panel raising cutters and the like, the cost difference can be pretty big.

Jim

[messmaker]

I would guess that 1/4" shank bits are on the way out. It will take some time but I suspect you will see them less and less as time goes by.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Woodcraft currently has about 10 common bits on sale for $5.00 each and represent an excellent value. Those prices are similar to getting combo set prices but this way you get to pick and choose.

Example :
http://www.woodcraft.com/family.aspx...&FamilyID=3878

[davethegolfer]

Like potato chips, you can't stop at just one. When you get a dovetail jig, you will find that getting the bit set right is so difficult for a perfect fit, that you will want to use one router and keep it set only for dovetails. It is too painful to reset it each time.