Thread: Router Bit Purchase

Steve, I had a motley collection of individual bits until I lucked onto the Jesada Catalogue. I now have a very nice set of their 'picture frame' bits, in a well made wooden box, and a multi-size rabbetting bit. I'm very happy with them, and can only suggest that you have a look at their latest catalogue. CarbaTec also have a good reputation and I've been very happy with their service.
Stay well clear of Bunnies!

Im using a $40 cheapy set of Ultra TCT router bits from Bunnings....

Have tried out all the bits (12 in total) and they have done quite a good job!

Of course they are smaller diameter bits, but useful none the less.

Someone give me a good reason not to continue using them? I'm sure if there is a safety issue with these, then I'll consider turfing them...but the results I have achieved so far have been fine

Dean

I too had the same dilema after purchasing the Triton router and table. Looking at the options that were available and wondering how I could justify the expense with the finances minister, I came across an article in Australian Wood Review issue 32 pp18, that tested a number of bits on a CNC machine at Holmesglen TAFE. I settled on the T-cut Green Line set that gave equal performance to the more expensive bits and the 12 piece set was priced at around $120. I came across the same set at the WWW show for $60!!!! I have tried several of the bits with perfect results. At 60 sovs, I don't think you can go wrong.

I purchased the $40 dollar set this afternoon from Bunnings and I'm not overly impressed...... but a lot of the problem could be the operator too. I purchased the Triton router at the wood show on the weekend, my first ever router, and I'm just learning how to use it. It came with a straight bit from Triton and after playing with that bit and then trying the straight bit in the kit I bought today I am convinced that the cheap set's are only for beginners to work out which expensive bits they really need to buy....... this is only my opinion of course

Have fun

Wands,

IF you are close, pay the woodworking warehouse in Citrus Av Braeside a vist... I was there this afternoon and they had a good selection of what looked like QUALITY bits.

Kev

I recently bought a 15 peice Torquata Set
http://www.timbecon.com.au/products....parentid=12473

If ya not short on cash try CMT
http://www.timbecon.com.au/products....parentid=12473

Yeah, go cheap the first time around. 12 bits for $60. Have a play and see what you can do combining them. Use the soft pine to experiment with.

Then when your ready to have a really good go at a quality project, buy the high quality stuff, Trition, CMT, etc...

I suggest just buying them one bit at a time. And you'll build up a very reasonable collection in no time. And without having to hide it from the financial advisor.

------------------
Thanks,
Barry G. Sumpter
Proud Tritoneer
Triton Woodworkers Club Holmesglen

[This message has been edited by barrysumpter (edited 02 November 2002).]

Would have to agree with Barry start practicing with cheapys then buy good as is needed cmt etc.I only have 1/4 router & bunnys bits slow it way down & leave 'fur' using cmt round over & straight bits is like the hot knife butter line, its very much like saw blades well worth the extra difference in price.
Just be carefull with sets its like spanners who uses 20,18,9,6,4,mm especially at $40 odd a throw.
Neal

[This message has been edited by Neal (edited 03 November 2002).]

For one off unusual jobs, I generally try to get an HSS bit and then hope it lasts the distance. For my standard collection I have a variety of brands and am impressed with the Oz made Carb I Tec bits.

Thanks all for your advise / experiences.

Upon taking all into concideration and discussing with the "Financial Adviser", I've decided I will go for a cheaper set to start, then build up better quality bits as needed. Have not been able to track down a set of T-cut Green Line (greg.smith), if you Know of anywhere that still stock these, it'll be again appreciated.
How have the Torquata bits gone Dazzza?

Cheers, Steve

welcome to the routing world.

I have a combination of bits but see good value in T-cut (Australian) and CMT(Europe).

Look at the bits and try for bits that are designed to minimise kick back.

Comes as a shock when you are new to routing and the workpiece catches on the spinning bit and is found on the other side of the hole that it has made in the wall as it has been thrown from a bit spinning at 22-25,00rpm. Thank god the groin was'nt in the way as the wood was heading to the wall.

Steve the Torquata bits i have had no problem with they are fine and the price is too, i will probally get CMT for the most used bit at some stage

Sorry for taking so long to re-post but I've been enjoying the Cup long weekend!

Green Line T-Cut bits are available from Carb-I-Tool 76 Levanswell Rd Moorabbin VIC
Ph 03 9555 2966
Fax 03 9555 8695 www.carbitool.com.au
[email protected]

Thanks all for your help.
I am enjoying my first routing exercises - sure do run out of off-cuts quickly. I ended up getting the Torquatta 15 piece set for $105. Only problem, you start to want even more accessories - Biscuit Joiner, Finger Joiner and soon to be a dovetailer. Somebody is going to have to stop this ride before I end up with no money.
Thanks, Steve