The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls
Main => Woodworking => Topic started by: fjl on May 18, 2007, 11:44:10 pm
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I know it just means the shank on the bit is different size but is there an advantage of using one or the other size? My router can support both sizes.
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always go bigger...!
a half inch shank will reduce vibration significantly over a quarter inch...
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I buy only high-quality bits and can't say that I've noticed much difference between those with a 1/2-inch shank and those with a 1/4-inch shank. In theory, 1/2-inch shank bits have more mass and less vibration which leads to smoother cuts and less chance of burning the wood.
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Go with half inch if you're trying to decide. When you get into stuff like roundover bits, the larger sizes are only available in 1/2" shank.
I learned this the hard way, and I'm going to wind up buying a router with a 1/2" shank.
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Cool, thanks for the info. I kind of figured the 1/2" would be better simply for more durability and strenght cause of its larger size. Didn't realize it would influence vibrations.
It's too bad I didn't know this back when I bought that set from Holbren as I ordered the set in 1/4" in shaft :(
Oh well, at least I'll know to get the slot cutter bit in 1/2"
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I would imagine it being hard to make a 1/4" plunge cut with a 1/2" bit.
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I would imagine it being hard to make a 1/4" plunge cut with a 1/2" bit.
why...?
just the shaft would be 1/2" chad...it would taper to 1/4" for the actual cutting surface...
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It certainly looks as though some of the bits I'm looking at are not 1/4" diamater on the cutting end. Pattern bits, perhaps, but not some of the others.
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The 401 kit has 1/2" shanks
The 402 kit has 1/4" shanks
Both kits have 7 bits with the exact same cutting profile.
Look at bit 1058 in the 401 kit: it has a 1/2" shank and a 1/4" straight cutting area
Look at bit 1013 in the 402 kit: it has a 1/4" shank and a 1/4" straight cutting area
These two bits will yield the exact same cut.
Look at bit 1067 in the 401 kit: it has a 1/2" shank and a 1/2" straight cutting area
Look at bit 1026 in the 402 kit: it has a 1/4" shank and a 1/2" straight cutting area
These two bits will yield the exact same cut.
Here's why I'd go with 1/2" shanks:
1) As TOK mentioned the largest bits only come with 1/2" shanks. This is because a 2" bit with a 1/4" shank would be much more susceptible to breaking than a 2" bit with a 1/2" shank.
2) You may never break a shaft or notice lower vibration, but it is even less likely with 1/2" bits.
3) They cost about the same.
If you have 1/4" bits, keep using them!