RobertJR
Just my 2 cents.
I have seen Freur bits go right down the tubes when they get abused .
So it comes down to how you use your bits ,if they get real hot, that will do it most of the time ,so it always best to make small cuts and sneek up on the last cut.
Most Mfg. have a standard to work with when they make router bits.
Freur is one Mfg. that doesn't make lower grade router bits like others do.
I'm not sure about Lee Valleys ,I have not used or checked out their bits.
But I used Grizzly bits and they sell both types high end and lower end ones.
e.g. C1721z and C1721 (z part numbers) (are high end type, micro grain type)
http://www.grizzly.com
Sometimes you want the best money can buy; sometimes your project requires you to use the best router bits made.
If so , these router bits fit the bill!
High End ones ▼
Starting with a better quality steel for the bodies (SAE4140), we heat treat them to the appropriate hardness and apply K10 micro grain carbide.
They then precision grind the blades to 800 grit (using the wet grinding process) so that they are razor sharp and then finish them with a baked on metallic paint.
These router bits are made for us and to our exacting specifications in an ISO 9002 rated factory. Try one - And see for yourself!!
Lower end one ▼
Grizzly® cutters feature top-quality carbide - the best available for wood cutting applications.
Shaped and sharpened with diamond wheels as fine as 600 grit, these outstanding router bits are constructed with a high-tensile, silver-based brazing material, which offers the utmost in strength and durability, If you haven't tried these premium bits, we strongly suggest you put them to the test.
Hope this helps
Bj
