router bit question

[LCHIEN]

I just don't like solid carbide bits. Have had too many break. I think that they may be too brittle. As for steel bits, they just don't hold an edge very long, or seem to cut as clean.

carbide is (1) expensive and (2) also brittle but (3) very hard/wear resistant. (that's wy we put up with 1 & 2)

About the only solid carbide bits I've ever seen for general sale are spiral bits which are probably very complex to make with an spiraled carbide insert, which is why they are only available as solid.

All other bits are available as HSS (high speed steel) or Steel with carbide insert tips. The ones with carbide insert tips are more expensive and last much, much longer, hence the only reasonable choice for anyone but a one-cut user who doesn't expect to use it beyond one short cut. In fact I don't see HSS bits for sale except as the very cheapest small sets or individual bits at the local hardware store.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Jeff, What was the issue number/date of that FWW magazine with the router bit review?
The only one I could find reference to was in 1999 so its a bit dated.

June 2007, #191, Page 47.

[scorrpio]

First, I got a large (66 bits) cheap set. Real cheap - but it has a whole slew of all sorts of bits that let me experiment. Since then, as bits wear out, break etc - I replace them individually, with quality pieces. Works for me.