Let’s talk about router bits! Router bits are power tool accessories used with corded and cordless woodworking routers. There are profiles are all kinds, related to the shape you want them to cut into wood edges, or within a workpiece.
Bill asked:
Do you have any data for router bits such as quality brands and prices?
I’m a DIY woodworker and usually work with pine, but not always.
That’s a great question, but also an easy one!
Router bits usually fall into two categories. There are value-priced router bits that offer a good balance between performance and affordability, and there are more premium router bits that cost more but are better made and longer lasting.
For value-priced router bits, MLCS offers very broad selection and reasonably good quality for the money. They have a very solid reputation.
For better router bits, I like Freud as a general go-to. I bought a Freud router bit set a few years ago when it was on sale at Amazon, and the bits have been great. Those bits are still in use, although a couple are waiting to be cleaned.
Depending on the wood, pitch can sometimes adhere and harden onto router bits, requiring a special cleaning process before they’ll provide optimal cut quality and efficiency again.
I bought some Whiteside and Southeast Tool router bits about a year ago, and they are fantastic.
I’ve also used Bosch router bits, Ryobi, and some others. I’ve steered clear of super-cheap bits though, based on user reviews. If you’re on a budget, MLCS has a couple of competitors that are equally well-regarded.
Buy Now(MLCS router bits via Amazon)
Buy Now(Freud router bits via Amazon)
Buy Now(Whiteside router bits via Amazon)
Buy Now(Whiteside and Southeast Tool via Amazon)
If you aren’t quite sure about what you might need, buy an inexpensive but reputable assortment, and then individual bits, small sets, or a different assortment from a better brand.
For example, I have a mix of individual 1/4″ shank router bits, a Ryobi 1/4″ shank bit set, an MLCS 1/4″ shank router bit set, a Freud 1/2″ shank router bit set, a set of MLCS roundover bits, a mix of individual 1/2″ shank router bits, 1/8″ shank mini router bits, and small Whiteside and Southeast Tool assortments and sets that I bought for review purposes. I also have some random Bosch and Milwaukee router bits from back when Amazon had them at clearance prices.
With regular woodworking router use, a bit collection will inevitably grow over time. If you aren’t sure about what you want, investing in an inexpensive assortment is less risky than splurging on a large and more premium set of bits you might end up not needing or using for the work you do.
What are your router bit brand recommendations?
