New router is here...Need bits

[rjwaldren]

I finally picked up a Hitachi KM12VC kit from amazon. I've only run a quick roundover with it so far but already like it... I'm more than happy to let the Craftsman (ryobi) go to the wayside.

I only have 1/4" bits due to the craftmans fixed collet. Can anyone suggest a good 1/2" starter set? I'm getting my cart filled at Holbren and Infinity has some good prices on overstocks. I'm looking for bang for the buck, has anyone seen any good sales this w/e?

How are the infinity bits vs whiteside?

[LCHIEN]

I'm still a fan of sets like the 15- or 30-piece sets at MLCSWoodworking.com or even Holbren if you wish. They come in 1/2" shanks and cost you around $3-4 per bit. This is way less than half-cost of purchased separately and so even if you don't use all of them you come out ahead in my book. The good part is you can try different profiles because you have them, give you more freedom to play.

[Knottscott]

Infinity and Whiteside are both excellent. Holbren happens to have the Whiteside 7pc basic set for ~ $80 shipped (use "BT310" code for 10%).

[LinuxRandal]

Since Holbren got out of his economy bits, I would go MLCS, and then replace the most used with Whiteside.

[Uncle Cracker]

Another vote for the Whiteside starter set at Holbren. You may as well put your money into quality bits.

[AusRob]

I guess CMT bits are available in the US of A. I have been more than happy with their quality.

Regards,

Rob

[ragswl4]

For serious work I only buy Whiteside. Haven't used any from Infinity. I also have a set from Holbren (20 or so bits in it) and have been pleased with the results from those bits. They are mostly edge forming and rabbiting bits. They were well worth the $$. For things like raised panel doors, its Whiteside.

[Holbren]

I guess CMT bits are available in the US of A. I have been more than happy with their quality.

Regards,

Rob

CMT makes a good bit but I'm always surprised at how expensive they are compared to a Whiteside, Infinity, Freud, Amana ...

[pelligrini]

I've got a few of them orange ones, they are nice. I usually get them at woodcraft and they probably get a good markup there.

A few folks mentioned that they don't need the branding paint in the router bit cleaning thread. I really do like the colors though, as an identifying device. Some projects and pieces don't need the best bit used on them. With the branding colors it does make it easier.

[cabinetman]

If you pick up an inexpensive carbide tipped "set" you will have a variety to try out. I've got "sets" of bits that some in the set have never been used. So, instead of investing in an expensive "set", you'll be able to try out different bits without it costing a lot of money. Then, when you figure out which profiles will be used a lot, pick up those in a better bit.
.

[rjwaldren]

I'm finding myself picking through individual bits at Holbren, Infinity and MLCS...

I have a decent 30pc 1/4" set, along with a few CMT and bosch bits. After some thought, I think I'd be better off buying complete quality sets of common bits (ie a full roundover/beading set) and just buying the specialty bits as I go. With the exception of the large MLCS set the included bits are too limited in sizing.

[George Cole]

I have used Katana from MLCS and have been happy with them....After reading this thread I am thinking I have a illness and did not know it....**** the luck..

[jhgrady]

Your craftsman [ryobi] router might fit the BT3000 router table. Always nice to have a roundover availiable.

John

[dbhost]

I have bits from Craftsman (junk) Skil (better than Craftsman, but still not great) and MLCS. I REALLY like how clean the MLCS bits cut, and the fact I have yet to have an MLCS bit break on me...

[poolhound]

Pickup a reasonable quality multi bit set and you will soon figure out which you use most often and then replace these with better qulaity such as WHitside through Brian at Holbren.

I do occasional pickup the odd bit at my local rockler but thats because they are only 2 miles down the road.