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Looking for various router bits as my router usage grows. I am in Chicago IL suburbs. Close to Rockler and big box stores (HD, Menards and Lowes). My router uses 1/4 and 1/2 router collets

What do you suggest for
  1. Router tip manufacturers?
  2. Any online stores for router tips and accessories?
Thanks
 

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Hi, A lot of my general purpose bits are Freud. They're hard to beat. They make specialty bits as well. But for door making sets, I have and really like using Sommerfeld Tools matched bit sets. Matched sets have the shank milled to exactly the same length, so you can set the first bit in the set, then switch to the other bits without changing router height.

I also like watching the late Marc Sommerfeld's videos (on youtube). He was a cabinet maker before starting his router supply business, and his technique is simple and elegant. Some of the best videos out there because he doesn't cut away to keep it short, so you see the entire process. He uses his own products, but isn't promoting them so the videos are really good.

His company and many others produce annual catalogs that are great to have when you're looking for a special profile. Most of the bit suppliers offer them.

Finally, for door sets (good for more than doors), Sommerfeld has a great little accessory called the Easy Set, a kind of star wheel that makes setting bits really easy. Unlike standard blocks, these adjust for the thickness of the wood you're using. It comes in yellow for Sommerfeld bits, and red for the same bits from Freud. Not very expensive either.
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Living in Australia, a full selection of manufacturers is not available.
I use CMT, Wealden Cutters (UK), CarbiTool (Aus) and for some light jobs, cheap Chinese cutters from our "big box store" (Bunnings)....
 

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Reviewing my post above, I realized I gave short shrift to Freud bits. They are really excellent, and pretty easily found. I have in my collection some CMT bits and a few 1/4 inch shank Yonico bits I use a lot in my trim router (small mortising bit for hinges in particular). What I don't really like are huge bit sets in 1/4 inch shanks. If you don't mind special ordering though, I think you could happily stick with freud. They also have the quadra cut bits, with four cutters to make baby-behind smooth cuts.

That red Easy Set from Sommerfeld, is the perfect match for Freud bit sets. BTW, I have no financial interest in Sommerfeld Tools, They have been very helpful in emails, and I have their Katey Jig for making dovetail joints. I also learned about table routing from Marc's videos on CDs. Those are all on YouTube now. Marc passed away a couple of years ago from ALS. He had wide-ranging interests. Wish I'd been able to meet him. I did meet Torben Helshoj, founder and President of Laguna Tools. A stickler for quality without compromise. That cinched my decision to buy their 14-12 bandsaw and their table saw. Great gear.
 

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My router bit collection contains Whiteside, Amana, and Freud brands. All are very high quality cutting tools, and in the case of Freud you can get them at Home Depot (although the selection is limited).
If you decide to buy from Amazon, stick with these brands. I strongly advise staying away from the "Made by Comrade Wu" brands you'll find "sponsored" (i.e. promoted) on Amazon-you won't be satisfied with the quality.
Another online source for you to consider is www.routerbitworld.com.
Gerry
 
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