Thread: Breaking Bits

Do you mean breaking at the shank?

If so, then 1/2" shank bits will be less prone to break.

"How do I care for my router bits?"
Set the correct speed for the router initially for the job, clean the pitch/resin off the bits to keep them sharp, and keep them in safe containers to avoid accidental damage.

"What are common causes of breakage?"
Feeding too fast... Trying to use the bit for a task it was not designed for... trying to take off too much material in a single pass (particularly for long straight cutting bits).

"What are the best bits for someone on a budget?"
Depends what you call 'budget' but more expensive bits last longer and generally give cleaner cuts. You could try Carbi-tool bits which seem ok for the $$ or more expsnive CMT bits which are better. The Ultra brand at Bunnies at cheapies. I've got a set, and they are ok for small roundovers and simple work on softwoods etc, but thats about it.

I also have a Linbide 3/4" staright cutting bit i got from Bunnies and it actually cuts very well. That brand does not get talked about a lot here?? Anyone else used their bits? Would be interested in your opinions of some of their other profiles.

Dean.

Thanks for the info. I think the the most obvious problem I had with the bits was that they were a set of 10 for about $30. A couple of them couldn't stand the heat of continuous running. The ones I broke were straight bits and I think I probably was trying to take off too much. I'm only new to routing so I didn't want to make all my mistakes with expensive equipment. I hope any new router I buy comes with instructions on what speed settings are appropriate for different jobs.

Sounds like youre trying too hard!
The message is multiple passes.
Particularly with 1/4 bits.


Linbide is a NZ brand. they make saw blades & carbide tooling.
There product is quite respectable. probably the NZ equivalent of carbitool.
I suspect they also do a bit of oen work for other brands.

Brisbane saw service sell some of their products.

A very common mistake by newbies is not to insert the bit deep enough into the collet. Insert AT LEAST 2/3 of the shank length. A bit that is not inserted deep enough, top it off with forced feeding when taking toooo much of is a sure disaster. They can punch holes that ooze pink juice..........................

Cya

keep yourself well protected we dont want accidents happening. Go slow and remember wood and tools can be replaced your body parts can't:eek: Tonto

Linbide is sold outside Qld as Craftmaster, you can find them in Bunnies.

Thanks again for the replies.