Should I pay more for Porter Cable or Bosch router bits? Or should I just get the Ryobi ones? What about "off brands"? I cannot find a
1/8" bit straight (1/4" shank) cut anywhere that is not in one of the "higher" priced ones, except in the off brands on Ebay or Harbor Freight. Thanks.
More than what? Maybe, yes, but you can do better.
No
What do you consider off brand?
I cannot find a
Look here
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Whiteside, Amana, and a half dozen others that escape me at the moment are top quality professional grade. Avoid the lowest bidder on things that spin 22,000 rpm.
Now understand I know nothing of what I am asking, but what could go wrong here? It's a carbide tipped piece of metal. I am not doubting you at all. I'd just like to understand. Thanks.
there's more to it than just that it's made of carbide! I've got some really crappy carbide bits. and I have so long lasting, balanced, well designed bits that are a pleasure to use. And all carbide is NOT the same. Think ice cream or peanut butter. Ever thought that ALL ice cream or peanut butter is the same?? No way! A company that puts out pricey yet superior bits doesn't fold it's tent and go bankrupt because there are cheapy bits on the market. Discerning woodworkers know that the expensive bit is worth the extra bucks; otherwise how do you think Amana, CMT, et all stay in business? Maybe YOU don't want to use the better brands, BUT THERE IS A DIFFERENCE. If you can't tell, content yourself with the junky ones.
certainly isn't in the top tier of tool manufacturers, quality-wise, but their stuff isn't exactly junk either.
Note, though, that it's high-speed steel. Not carbide. As HSS bits go, Vermont American is halfway decent... but good HSS bits don't cut as cleanly, nor last nearly as long, as good carbide bits do. For limited use in softwoods, this will probably do fine. For repeated or extended use in softwoods, or *any* use in hardwoods, you're better off with a carbide bit.
The one shown is not carbide, it is high speed steel. It wears faster than carbide. Yes, you may get a cut if you want a 3" slot, but it may start to burn shortly after. Better bits of that size are solid carbide, not HSS. Check out the bits at
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You'll be on your third or fourth bit. gouging up the wood, burning it, and I'll still be making smooth cuts.
Next lesson: Types of carbide. Yes there are different grades.
There are many other design factors that also come into play. The amount of metal, types of welds, and on and on.
Let's say you have $50 in wood and 10 hours in time to get your project to a certain state. The final step is to cut a 1/8" groove with your router. Yes, this is going to be very visible, very critical. What bit should you use? Just something to think about.
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