MLCS Forstner Bits

[Pappy]

I have a set of HF forstner bits that are 1/4" - 2 1/8" by eights. Although I'm sure they are not machined to the closest tolerances possible, they are a decent set. The problem is that I have needed an in-between bit on several occasions.

MLCS has 3 sets that would do the trick. A 6 pc set for $22.95 that are all 1/16 bits and would fill the gaps from 5/16" - 15/16". Next step up is a 22 pc set at $59.95 that would replace the HF bits with the additional 6 pc set included. Their big set is 31 pcs (1/4" - 2 1/8" in sixteenth inch increments) for $99.95.

Now the questions:

1. Is there enough difference in quality to warrant getting the 22 pc set and replacing the HF set?

2. If the answer is yes, is there enough use for the sixteenth bits above 1" to justify the added $40 price tag?

[charliex]

Or.. Go for broke and get their 39 bits for $109.95 special.
http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shops...e/sp070612.htm
I've been lusting for this set for about a month now. I don't need them that often but at that price it's hard to pass up.
Chas

[cgallery]

I purchased both the carbide sets from Griz.

http://www.grizzly.com/catalog/2007/Main/322

Not cheap, but I was tired of not having the right size. And I work w/ a lot of plywood and didn't want to worry about dulling the bits all the time.

[Pappy]

Just looked at the Grizzly site. $180 is a bit steep right now. Scrolling down I found a HSS 31 pc set like MLCS has, for $30 more.

[LCHIEN]

I have a set of HF forstner bits that are 1/4" - 2 1/8" by eights. Although I'm sure they are not machined to the closest tolerances possible, they are a decent set. The problem is that I have needed an in-between bit on several occasions.

MLCS has 3 sets that would do the trick. A 6 pc set for $22.95 that are all 1/16 bits and would fill the gaps from 5/16" - 15/16". Next step up is a 22 pc set at $59.95 that would replace the HF bits with the additional 6 pc set included. Their big set is 31 pcs (1/4" - 2 1/8" in sixteenth inch increments) for $99.95.

Now the questions:

1. Is there enough difference in quality to warrant getting the 22 pc set and replacing the HF set?

2. If the answer is yes, is there enough use for the sixteenth bits above 1" to justify the added $40 price tag?

WW is to a large extent having the right tools for the right job. If you want precise circles in all different sizes, then the forstners are the way to go and if you want the 1/16th increment set, I say get it.

[Pappy]

Buying the bits in sixteenth's is going to happen. What I am trying to determine is if it's worth it to replace the HF bits in the deal and spend the extra $$$ to get the sixteenth bits above 1".

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Have you checked out Lee Valley? You may be suprised to see the pricing on the sets.

6 bits in 16ths for $22.50 HCS and $32.50 in HSS.

MCLS drill bits usually fair pretty poorly on comparisons, while Lee Valley tend to take the cake.