sign making bits

[rseeley13]

I was looking around on the forum and couldn't find the info I was looking for so I will just ask the question. I have had some request to make a few signs and was just wondering what bits I should have for the machine and what sizes, I'm looking to put an order in.

90 degree 1/2" or 1"
120 degree
60 degree

I guess I'm looking to see what would be a good range of bits to have for sign making.

Thanks

[dlcw]

Ryan,

What types of signs are you interested in making? This will determine the bits that you will need.

[steve_g]

Ryan…
Asking for bit preferences is like talking religion and politics around here! But here goes!
For messing around trying stuff out:
http://www.magnate.net/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PG117
Magnate bits are less expensive than many others and there is a penalty to pay… Often the angles are off just a tiny bit. This will result in slight “water” marks as the bit steps down. You can avoid this issue by buying bits wide enough to cut the entire width (but not necessarily in one pass).

I really like the CMT laser point 60° bits they have the sharpest point of any that I’ve tried! They are available on Amazon.
If a bit is available with a ½” shank, always go with that option with v- bits.
SG

[rseeley13]

Don
Mainly out of wood, just looking at what would be the best sizes to have on hand.

Ryan

[Brady Watson]

60, 90, 120 v-bits - The largest diameters you can find.

1/16 thru 1/2" solid carbide end mills (upcut by nature) - 2 flute only - get collets appropriate for your spindle/router. I'd have 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 3/8 & 1/2" on hand.

1/4, 3/8 & 1/2" 2-flute down cutting spiral bits to eliminate top edge tear out

1/16" thru 3/8" single flute spiral-O (via Onsrud or Harvey Tool) for plastic and non-ferrous metals when you get there...

That should get you going...

-B

[dlcw]

60, 90, 120 v-bits - The largest diameters you can find.

1/16 thru 1/2" solid carbide end mills (upcut by nature) - 2 flute only - get collets appropriate for your spindle/router. I'd have 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 3/8 & 1/2" on hand.

1/4, 3/8 & 1/2" 2-flute down cutting spiral bits to eliminate top edge tear out

1/16" thru 3/8" single flute spiral-O (via Onsrud or Harvey Tool) for plastic and non-ferrous metals when you get there...

That should get you going...

-B

The only thing I would add to Bradys VERY complete list is a 1/4" compression (or 3/8" for thicker material). A compression bit, if you are not familiar, up cuts on the bottom and down cuts on the top, providing a shearing cut top and bottom, eliminating chip out. Mainly used in plywood and composites, but also works well in solid wood.

[rseeley13]

Perfect...thanks everyone.