Router bit storage

[Sailor]

I want to build a storage box for the many odd router bits that I have accumulated. I read somewhere that it is not a good idea to insert them into unlined (wood) holes.

The commercial boxes use a plastic insert (see photo). What is the name of the plastic insert? Any recommendations of a source?

[Lee4847]

Why is it bad to put them in a wood hole? I was going to build a cabinet to collect all my bits and just drill a bunch of 1/2 and 1/4 holes!

I'll be watching this thread for guideance.

Thanks in advance.

Lee

[luteman]

Router Bit Storage

Don't quote me on this but I think it has to do with the wood absorbing moisture and swelling just enough to make insertion and withdrawal of the router bits difficult.

[JR]

I drilled my holder with the next size larger bit over the nominal 1/4" and 1/2".

Please tell me my bits aren't out there dying some horrible death!

JR

[Wood_workur]

its that the plastic is stable in diameter, and grips the bit more firmly so it will not fall out I believe.

[kirkroy]

I've just got a 2x4 that I put some 1/2" holes in. One of these days I'll do something nicer.

[LCHIEN]

i think the moisture in the wood might rust the shanks of the bits. even indoor, dried wood typically has a few percent moisture, like 10-20%?

The pic you show is a plastic insert with a 1/2" (or 1/4") I.D.
I don't know where to get a few but you can buy lots of them from a company like Caplug - www.caplugs.com

Another idea is to use a material like UMHW or other plastic to drill the holes in.

[leehljp]

I drilled holes in wood for my router bit storage. It does cause some problem with rusting on the shanks. I spray the holes with oil about every 18 months or so - when I think of it, but should do it every year. Wood will absorb humidity which will transfer to the shaft.

Plastic shanks are better overall, or move to Arizona.

Double click for larger view.

[Slik Geek]

Not exactly what you are looking for, but Lee Valley has bit holders:

16J03.61
16J03.62

http://www.leevalley.com

[hermit]

How about using MDF instead of wood for the holding platform? I don't think it would hold moisture like wood, even so, you could seal it with a spit coat of shellac real quick.

Todd

[RodKirby]

How about using MDF instead of wood for the holding platform? I don't think it would hold moisture like wood, even so, you could seal it with a spit coat of shellac real quick.

Todd

From Woodhaven... Item# 7300

[LCHIEN]

How about using MDF instead of wood for the holding platform? I don't think it would hold moisture like wood, even so, you could seal it with a spit coat of shellac real quick.

Todd

MDF IS COMPOSED OF Wood fibers so it will probably hold moisture similar to wood. It is very suceptable to damage from excessive moisture as well, so it will definately accept moisture.

[JimD]

My router table is the same layout as Norm's with the fake drawers on either side of the router compartment for bit storage. When I made it, I had a bunch of little 2x4 pieces from framing in the basement (the ceilings are 8'6" so I had to buy 10 footers and cut them). I planned the 2x4s, glued them edge to edge, and drilled slightly oversize holes for the bits. I've been using them for several years at this point and they work fine. Bits are never difficult to remove. Some of my bits have a little superficial rust on the shank but a piece of sandpaper removes all but the discoloration. I don't know if it came from my storage method or what. Many of them pre-date my router table. The more recent bits seem to be rust free.

My 2x4 scraps had set around for several months before I used them. I think that probably helped them to not have too much moisture.

Jim

[Lee4847]

Solid vinal trim

Last year I trimmed the outside of a window with that vinal board Lowe's and/or HD sells. What I bought was 3/4 x 4 board of solid vinal. I may get more of that to drill holes for the bits.

Thanks for the info on the wood causing corrosion.

Lee

[Salty]

I'm not sure this will work but I'm going to try it anyway.
I have some stuff called plastidip, both in a dip can and a brush on that is called liquid tape.
Maybe if I put a coat of wax on the bit shank and then coat it with the plastidip it would end up being like a glove. Then I can drill the next size hole for the bit with the glove and the wax will keep the coating from sticking. Maybe I could also try putting it in the hole before it dries. May work...I'll let ya know.