Are you eager to start using your new router? Getting a new router can be exciting but the tricky part is choosing the best router bits. Once you set up a woodworking workshop, having a router bit will become a necessity. You can make use of it in a variety of tasks owing to its versatile nature.
Router bits can be a really handy tool while you engage in woodworking. They can cut different woodworking joints, can be used for trimming laminates, and for decorating edges. They give the edge of your wood a very fine, smooth touch that makes the overall look of your woodwork not only attractive but also professional. Since you are highly likely to come across thousands of different varieties of router bits, it is essential to know how to pick the best one. The quality router bits are must have for DIY projects. So you can make excellent workpieces just seated in your garage or your workspace at home.
The difference in the wide range of router bits available is merely based on the different profile cuts the router bit can provide you with. However, as you will see in the reviews of the listed products below, that the cut a router bit provides is just one aspect that makes them different from each other. A great number of other features like the standard router bits, materials, and the top brands also account for the difference in variety that we have discussed in the buying guide.
Contents
What is a Router Bit?
Before we describe what a router bit is, it is essential to know about the function of a router. It is a hand tool which workers use to rout materials that are relatively harder like plastic or wood. They are used widely in woodworking.
A router has a broad base and a narrow plate with a blade attached at the end. The available cutters that you can attach to the router can simply be referred to as router bits.
They come in a wide variety to give your project a decorative touch or for joinery aids. They have two classifications: high-speed steel or carbide-tipped. Mostly profiles have carbide cutters since they can hold onto the edges for a longer time.
Besides the material they are made from, router bits can also be classified as non-edge bits and edge bits. Some bits mainly work to give you smoother and rounded edges whereas other bits focus more on the design you can provide to your wood piece edge for added appeal.
To sum up, router bits are cutting tools that are present on routers which help you in woodworking workshops to achieve the best edge.
Types of Router Bits
1 Edge Beating Bit
Need to enhance and define the edges of your tabletops, shelves, and armchairs? This is the bit you should buy. As the name might suggest, the edge beating bit is best for giving shape to edges so your article comes out more defined. It shows close similarity to the round over bit. This is because the edge beating bit adds a rounded edge to your workpiece. These bits can help you achieve the perfect beaded edge as well which will exactly give you the right quarter or half circle profile.2 Ogee Bit
A popular choice in many woodworking workshops, the ogee bit is widely found in almost every wood router bit set. This bit comes with a bearing tip just like most edge bits. This bit works to create a well-defined s-shaped, compound profile. It has a great number of variations. You should note that the most common Roman ogee bits are the ones which come with points in the center or shoulders on the bit edges.3 Glue Joint Bit
As the name might suggest, the job of this type of router bit is to create a joint in the wood piece. This makes it possible for you to connect one piece to another suitable wood piece to obtain a larger panel. Glue joint bits tend to be super handy in function. The biggest advantage of using this profile instead of other joining systems like dowels and biscuits is that these router bits create a larger surface area for you to glue. A larger glue area gives you more adhesion.4 Raised Panel Bit
These type of router bits will often come in use when you have to create door panels with stile bits. Thus, they serve a specific purpose and are particular in function. It creates a profiled edge on the door’s panel so it can then easily coordinate and fit into a slot in the frame of a stile and the rails.5 Rabbet Bit
What is a rabbet? In simple words, it is basically just a dado that is present on the edge of the woodwork piece. In most cases, it has a bearing tip so it can easily ride along the edge of your workpiece. You can use a table saw while using a dado blade to cut a rabbet. However, you will notice that the design of the rabbet router bit caters alone for this purpose.6 Site and Rail Bit
If you want to make frame assemblies, then the site and rail bits are the perfect pick for this task. They suit the job of making frames in the best possible way. You can make frame assemblies for use in cabinetry and small doors with the help of site and rail router bits. Besides, being the best choice for frame making, these bits can also help you to decorate your woodwork.7 Dovetail Bit
Another very famous router bit that should definitely grace your workspace is the dovetail bit. You will get around to using it a lot once you have it because it is really good when it comes to adding tails for the dovetail joinery. Moreover, you can also use this router bit to create dadoes and rabbets with tapered edges. The design of the dovetail bit has a leveled bottom that has some angled sides. These sides are broader at the base to give you the perfect tails.8 Roundover Bit
As mentioned earlier, the roundover bit shows close similarity to the edge beating bit. However, the roundover bit take it to the next level because it is super-efficient when it comes to working on complex design projects. In the majority of the projects, they serve to create smooth and rounded curves to create a completely even edge of a specific radius on your workpiece. There is a small ball bearing on this router bit that is used to control the width of the cut. This is very useful when it comes to giving shape to the edges of bookcases, countertops and any other thing where you would want the edges to have a perfect, smooth edge.9 Flush Trim Bit
Do you work with plastic laminate or wood veneer frequently? Then the flush trim router bit is a must have for you. It is a straight-cutting bit which primarily aims to trim any sort of leftover material flush on the workpiece. For instance, trimming a wood veneer flush with another item or using some other design to make multiple matching pieces. It makes use of a ball bearing pilot which makes it ideal to serve the purpose of flush cutting. It is a handy bit when it comes to making tabletops, drawer faces, and cabinets.10 Cove Bit
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the cove bit is just a fancier version of the roundover bit. The roundover router bit makes the edges of the stock rounded, but the cove bit also cuts a concave radius along with making the edges smooth. It is mostly used for decorative purposes since it enhances and makes the loop of your furniture legs and cabinet doors more appealing.11 Chamfer Bit
If we talk about chamfer bits, then their versatile nature will be worth mentioning. They can create a great variety of chamfer size depending on the cut size you want. You can use the chamfer router bit to make a 45-degree cut on the square edge of the workpiece. Some of these chamfer bits come with a beading bit that allows them to ride along the workpiece edge with ease. They can produce edges in a beveled fashion that tend to join up structures that have more than one side. Chamfer bits can also be used to make containers that will hold your plants, waste bins, multi-sided boxes, and various decorative items.12 Carbide Tipped Bit
These types of router bits are a must have for your collection. They make your router a versatile and handy tool. You will tend to use this router bit more often. They come in various diameters and lengths for cutting straight grooves in a square shape. The most common and useful sizes are ¼, ½, and ¾ diameter bits. A straight carbide tipped bit is also available. This is best for use when cutting dadoes, rabbets, and grooves in plywood if you want to make furniture. However, you should note that this is a non-piloted bit. So if you wish to get straight and precise cuts, then you will also need a router bit guide.Our Favorite Router Bits :
7 Router Bits Reviews 2020 - Compared:
Here are the detailed reviews of seven of the best bit sets available in the market.
1.
The 91-100 Router Bit Set by Freud
This router bit set comes with 13 pieces that work best to give your professional results. If you have the skills required and know your work, then this 91-100 model should be your ultimate pick. Thirteen pieces from the set include a round nose bit, bearing flush trim bit, a cove bit, a V-groove bit, a rounding over bit along with one dovetail bit, one rabbeting bit, one Roman ogee bit, one chamfer bit, and one mortising bit. Besides these ten pieces, the set includes three double flute straight bits as well.
The quality of the bits is really high which goes on to show why it many woodwork experts recommend it. They feature TiCo tips which are inarguably the most amazing quality-wise. The router bits additionally have an anti-kickback design.
Freud’s router bits show great technological advancement which justifies the price tag of this bit set as it is the most expensive option on our list. The computer-balanced bits provide chatter-free and vibration working even when you use the router at high speeds.
Not only this, but each of the 13 router bits come with a high shear angle. This allows you to produce lessen the tear outs and minimize the chatter marks as well.
Most users pick this router bit set due to the professional cuts it can offer. It might be a pricey option, but we can guarantee you that it is a safe investment.
- Best quality
- Can cut various materials
- Lifetime guarantee
- Unique case design
- Bits are computer-balanced
- No extra bearings
- Expensive option
Most users pick this router bit set due to the professional cuts it can offer. It might be a pricey option, but we can guarantee you that it is a safe investment.
2.
The 15 Pieces 8377 Router Bit Set by MLCS
Just getting started on the woodworking business? Then this is the best router bit set for you to buy. The MLCS 8377 router bit set is the ideal choice for beginners who are looking to bring their best game forward for decorating the edges of their wood pieces.
This ½ inch shank bit set is a cheaper option for you. But don’t worry, because the price tag on the product in no way compromises on the quality. This router bit set by MLCS is sturdy and durable due to the carbide tips.
The design is super user-friendly. This is because while using these router bits, you do not have to worry about the tear outs and vibrations. To add diversity to your work, the router bit set comes with 15 different pieces.
The package includes one roman ogee but, a dovetail bit, a 45-degree chamfer bit, one flush trim bit along with rabbeting bit, a hinge mortising bit, one round over bit, a cove bit, one-panel pilot bit, a V-groove bit, four straight bits, and one round nose bit.
Although this router bit set is a great option for beginners due to the cheap price and complete packaging. However, you may notice that it does not last very long. It is subject to wear and tear when used continually.
- Affordable option
- Wooden storage case
- Packed with all the standard bits
- Durability compromised when compared to other sets
The 8377 Router Bit set by MLCS is a complete package if you are looking to add router bits to your workspace. They are an affordable option and probably the best choice for beginners to get their hands on. It comes packed in a safe wooden box with all the essential router bits you need.
3.
Thirteen Pieces 800.505.11 Router Bit Set by CMT
The router bit set we are about to talk on is perhaps the best one available in terms of investment time. CMT’s 13-piece router bit set is probably another expensive option on our list but be assured that it is worth every penny you will spend on the item. The router bits will make your professional skills shine even better due to their versatility. They can be used for various applications and have high-quality construction.
A couple of these bits have an anti-kickback design which ensures that your working environment is not only safe but also gives you the best results. Moreover, the bits are made out of sturdy material. The high-density tips of chrome carbide make your work easier. This feature gives a long-lasting performance because it retains the sharp tip of the bits for a relatively long time.
The set includes 13 pieces out of which there are three double flute straight bits. Next, there is one chamfer bit, one bearing flush trim bit, one cover bit, one V-groove bit, one rabbeting bit, a rounding over bit, a mortising bit, a round nose bit, a Roman ogee bit, and one dovetail bit.
This router bit set by CMT is a great option if you are looking for good investment options because the quality is remarkable enough to last you for a longer time.
- Chrome carbide tips
- Anti-kickback feature
- Hardwood case for easy storage
- Expensive option
CMT’s 13 piece router bit set might be an expensive option, but it is justified for the extremely competent features and high-working functionality that it offers. It has an anti-kickback feature which makes ensures working safety. Further, the product also adds a professional touch to your work while at the same time being a long term investment.
4.
Seven-Piece 401 Basic Router Bit Set by Whiteside
If you are working on DIY projects or just wish to buy a router bit set for yourself to fulfill your new found love for woodworking, then this is the best option to invest in. This set has the least number of bits on the list. Whiteside’s 7-piece router bit set might seem underwhelming to you, but once you see its functionality, you will know that it works fine as other sets.
It comes equipped with all the commonly used router bits that will include one rabbet bit, one chamfer bit along with a cove bit, one flush trim bit, one roundover and a beading bit. Besides these five pieces, the set also includes two straight bits.
Besides having the most common router bits in their collection, they are also sturdy and durable due to the top-notch carbide body. Additionally, the bits have a precise grinding design that offers incredible balance even when at maximum speeds. To make your storage work easy, the router bits come packed in a nice, small case for your convenience.
This should be your ultimate selection if you are looking for compact router bit sets that will definitely do the duty that any normal set should do. However, if you want your work to be fancier then this might not be a very wise choice as it has limited options.
- Storage case
- First-rate carbide bits
- Excellent balance due to precision grinding
- Fewer bits
Overall, it looks like an affordable and more compact solution, but offers complete solution for your needs.
5.
1/4-Inch Shank 24-Piece Router Bit Set by Stalwart
This router bit set by Stalwart has 24 pieces for you to create the best possible woodpiece while using every inch of your imagination and creativity. If you are thinking that 24 pieces will make this router bit set not only huge but also expensive, then let us correct you. Surprisingly, this router bit set is affordable while offering you 24 pieces. Not just that, but its compact design and wooden case make storage and carrying around the bits very easy for you.
They are ¼ inch shank bits that will surely fit all routers. The set comes with bits of various different profiles that you might need for your work. Even though the set contains 24 bits at a very affordable price, Stalwart does not sacrifice the quality for it. The tough carbide tips are durable and can withstand long hours of work without causing any inconvenience to you.
The 24 pieces included in this router bit set are four straight bits and four radius round over bits. Moreover, a trimming bit, a roman ogee bit, two dovetail bits, a panel pilot bit, a flush trim bit, a 45-degree chamfer bit, two round nose bits and two cove bits also come in this Stalwart bit set.
Lastly, you will also find one slot cutter bit, one rabbeting bit, one 45-degree chamfer bit, one mortising bit, one panel pilot bit, one flush trim bit, one combination bevel bit and finally a 90-degree V-groove bit.
This router bit set suited most users who were just starting their router bit journey. The pack includes every type of router bit to add versatility to your work and make your work look more appealing.
- Reasonable price
- Fully equipped 24-piece set
- Sturdy carbide tips
- Wooden case
- Not suited for heavy duty usage
The best thing about this router bit set is the price tag that Stalwart offers you for providing 24 pieces. Each of the 24 router bits have a tough carbide tip that will help you in working through all sorts of projects. The bits come in a safe to carry and easy to store wooden case.
6.
Multi-Profile fifteen-pieces 17150 Router Bit Set by Yonico
This set has carbide tips that have a silver induction brazing which gives them maximum strength. You can use them for your woodworking projects because they offer a ½ inch shank bit that is fit for use in multiple places. The versatile use of this router bit set makes it a good pick for anyone who wants to bring out their best game.
These router bits by Yonico have remarkable quality and lubricated ball bearings that are fully enclosed. This feature makes the performance of the router bits very high along with making them last long when working for a longer duration.
For added ease, the router bits come packed in a hard wooden case, so your bits stay protected at all times when you store them or carry them around. The set includes 15 pieces out of which there are three dado straight bits, two slotting bits, two radius round over edging bits and two radius cove edging bits.
Next, the pack comes with one of each of the following bits: flush trim straight bits, template trim bit, roman ogee edging bit, chamfer edging bit, bevel trim bit, and dovetail joint bit.
Yonico’s router bit set is great for use if you are looking to perform a number of tasks since many users have given positive reviews for its sturdy function and great functionality.
- Lifetime warranty
- Wooden storage case
- Top-notch micro grain carbide cutters
- Good quality ball bearings
- Does not include all essential bits
With its lifetime warranty, Yonico’s 17150 router bit set is a great pick since it has 15 pieces that can accompany you with your work. Moreover, the solid carbide cutters have incredible quality. They come with ball bearings as well that gives them a higher performance.
7.
Fifteen Pieces 10100 Router Bit Set by Hiltex
If you are looking for a router bit set that will offer versatility but also be an affordable option for you, then you should pick the Hiltex 10100 router bit set without hesitation. It offers value for money with its compact wooden box that houses 15-pieces to offer you the finest work. These 15-pieces are the most essential ones that you might need for every purpose. They fit well and work with any router as they come with ¼ inch shanks.
To offer work precision, the router bits have sharp tungsten carbide blades. Moreover, these offer accurate and smooth cuts on any type of wood so your projects can stand out. The solid steel alloy body of this Hiltex 10100 router bit set offers utmost durability as it can withstand long hours of work. Not only that, but the router bits also have bearing rollers which make your routing work smooth.
The wooden case houses 15-pieces which include five straight bits and two cove box bits. Besides this, the set has one grooving bit, one flush trim bit, one dovetail bit, one cove bit, one Panel pilot bit, one roman ogee bit, one 45-degree chamfer bit, and a corner round bit
Many users state that the Hiltex router bit set is a great choice if you wish to have a set with a reasonable price and great working.
- Tungsten carbide blades
- Precision work
- Affordable option
- Wooden hard case
- Bearing rollers included
- Below average durability
Our final router bit set is this tungsten carbide set 10100 by Hiltex that will give you the chance to make your work look more appealing when displayed to your customers. This is because it adds precision to your work. The 15-pieces come packed in a hard wooden case.
Buying Guide
1 Brands
Starting with brands, you should know that every brand offers a certain specialty. However, there are many brands in the world of woodworking that make spectacular router bits. These brands include Freud, MLCS, CMT, and Whiteside. Since the basic structure and features of most router bits are the same, the only thing which probably slightly differs is the durability of each brand along with the price tag.2 Shank Sizes
There are two available shank sizes, ¼ inch and ½ inch. You can choose from one of the two while selecting a router bit set for yourself. Some of these sets come with interchangeable shank sizes which gives you better working options. However, it is advisable by experts to use the more stable option that is, ½ inch shank bits. These produce minimum vibrations along with having cuts with smooth edges. Not only this, the ½ inch shank bits tend to have a longer life than the ¼ inch shank bit.3 Materials
The material out of which your router bit tip is made varies widely. It is also a very important factor that has to be taken care of. There are various materials when it comes to router bit sets. These include carbide tips, high-speed steel, and solid carbide. Solid carbide is most definitely the toughest out of all the three options. It is also ideal for performing heavy-duty tasks. High-speed steel suits recreational users best. They do not maintain their edge for a longer time and are highly recommended for use with softer materials. This is where carbide tips come in. These are best when you have to cut through harder materials and work for longer hours.Conclusion
We have given you a full detailed review of the best quality router bit sets above. You can attach these cutters to your routers which are the handiest power tools. This will help you to make your workpieces shine out so your creativity can touch new levels. However, since there are dozens of router bits available in the market therefore, it is crucial for you to have proper guidance before picking up a set for yourself.
While picking a router bit you should take care of certain aspects that will help you decide on the best one for your workplace based on your preferences. Shank size and price are definitely two very important things when you have to pick a bit set for your router table. Besides this, make sure that the tips are sturdy, preferably carbide-tipped, so your woodworking experience is smooth. These things combined together will help you in choosing the best set for yourself.
