What Cutters?

[chrisb691]

My build is on hold, while I wait for the electronics and couplings to arrive. So I decided I should work out what else I need. I've sorted out my starting software, and am now looking at what cutters to get.

Can I have recommendations for a starting kit of cutters, and, if possible, suggested suppliers. In particular, if anyone has a favorite eBay seller, I would be appreciative of knowing who.

[crocky]

Hi Chris,

I will only give you the ones I use mostly :)

90 degree V for general purpose carving
30 degree V for lithophanes
6mm 2 flute Straight
6mm 3 flute up cut
6mm 3 flute down cut

There is a few other too but these are the ones I have used so far, all are from Mitre10 range of carbitools

[rodm]

For engraving and fine work I use solid carbide 60 degree 2 and 3 flute V bits at about $12 to $14.00US each. I usually buy a few of 1540, 1541 and 1550 to make the $27 shipping worthwhile. I use them on acrylics through to aluminum.
http://www.routerbits.com/cgi-routerbits/sr.cgi?1223084654_23239+21

For cut outs and pockets a 1/4 inch 2 flute spiral upcut solid carbide bit or two flute straight shank router bit. I prefer the upcut bits as they clear swarf better on aluminum. I used to buy all mine from here
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/33205-KK10000-CNC-Carbide-Endmill-Ball-1-4-3pcs_W0QQitemZ160280902335QQihZ006QQcategoryZ25260QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1742.m153.l1262

Lee Valley are also worth a look and yes I buy all my bits overseas as you get two for the pirce of one in Oz. Mind you the dollar has taken a big bit and not as good as it used to be a month ago.

I use a few other sizes but they are not worth mentioning as you have a 1/4 inch collet on your router.

[chrisb691]

Thanks Bob, and Rod. That was just what I needed. I'm eally starting to apreciate just how cheap the the mdf part of this buld is. :D:D:D

Bob, why the down spiral bits? I don't understand how they clear the chips.

[crocky]

Hi Chris,

The up and down cut have differing purpose depending on the material being cut. Hardwoods, Laminates, Softwoods and Composites etc.

Up cut brings the swarf up and out of the cut.
Down cut forces the swarf down and out of the cut.

[niall]

You could try Multicam for there bits or Carbitool both supply to the cnc industry.