Cabinet Door Bits

[PastorPaul]

I need to get a set of cabinet door bits, but right now can't afford a really good set like Amana, CMT, or Whiteside.

Since this will probably be a rarely used set (possibly just this one project), I am looking at either Harbor Freight's boxed set (matched stile and rail bits, with a panel cutter) for $20 on sale, or PriceCutter.com's equivalent (no box) on sale for $50 with an extra 10% off through Saturday.

The HF bits are C3 carbon, while the PriceCutter are only C2. One advantage to the PC bits is that I can get set-up blocks to save myself some time and energy. I could experiment and make my own blocks, but wonder if they would be as accurate.

Any thoughts or advice?

Pastor Paul
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"If they don't have woodworking in heaven, I ain't going!!!"

[rrich]

PP,
This web site has quite a few sets.

http://www.woodline.com/scripts/default.asp

[PastorPaul]

Price is a problem with that site.

Pastor Paul
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"If they don't have woodworking in heaven, I ain't going!!!"

[Cody Colston]

PP,

For one time or minimal use they would probably suffice. Just remember that they will be spinning at 10,000 to 22,000 rpm. Wouldn't be pleasant if any carbide came off at that speed...especially considering most router table tops are about crotch high. :o

As an alternative method, consider raised panels on the table saw...coved or straight fields. Grooves and stub tenons work well for rails and stiles and are easy to make on the router table or with a dado blade on the tablesaw.

Cody

He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep
for that which he cannot lose.

[BradTheNailer]

PP,

Where does one start? I, just like you, would love to be able to buy a cheap set of cabinet bits and they actually WORK. You and I know they are carp, and they will make nothing but crap. I understand being tight with money, but in the short or long run, quality bits will pay for themselves. You'll ruin every piece of wood you run them bits across....

I myself bought the Woodline bits. The rail and stile matching bits have been "OK" but they DO NOT give a fit like a set of CMT or Katana would give. I have excepted this only because of the price I paid for them. I couldn't imagine what you'll get from the set of HF bits.

I also have the miter lock bits and the glue joint bits from woodline, all have been disappointing to say the least. (because they are cheap)

If you are doing a small job, maybe someone can "loan" you their set?

I guess if you are that tapped for money, buy the HF bits (even though I wouldn't recommend it) And test them on scrap, if the fit isn't nice, return,return,return... until you get a set that is satisfactory. If you plan to use them on any wood harder then oak, I wouldn't even bother.

[br][br]
"I just don't understand...
I've cut it three times and it's still too short!"[br]
[link:www.mgsawmill.com|M&G Sawmill]. Makers of the finest sawdust in Texas. Oh, did I mention we have hardwood as well?

[bobha8]

PP,
don't spend money just for set up blocks, I had a set come with my more expensive infinty cabinet bits. short story long they were off from each other. I made some of my own but don't even use them, it's easy for me to cut the first and eyeball the second i always try a scrap peice but I would do that even with setup blocks.

Bob

[Malcolm]

What about some of the horizontal bits?

[bobha8]

PP,
I have used some of these guys bits
before.http://www.bladesnbits.com/product240_lastcat84.ihtml

I haven't used their panel bits but the other bits I used from them cut as well as my mlsc bits. I haven't used them long enough to tell how they will wear. I bought them on ebay which you can search he has near 100% feedback I emailed some people who bought them and they said they are a decent bit.

my only complaint is the shafts are a little short on them.

check thier ebay listing they maybe even cheaper.
Bob

[messmaker]

I remember reading that Bladesandbits bits are made in the same plant as MLCS. I think that you can get the HF set for about $16 by using the discount coupons that are around. It is not much of a gamble. I have never heard(good or bad) from someone who had ever used them.

[John_Pahl]

The TS is the way I'd go as well. Those bits are spinning so fast, I wouldn't risk it. Not to mention the cut quality of they are not sharp. You'll spend more time sanding then you will setting up the TS IMHO.


John