Beginner bit set

[coryatjohn]

Ok, I've got my brandy new ShopBot up and running. ShopBot provides a starter bit set with a nice assortment that I now have but I'm sure there are bits that will be important that I should have right off the bat.

I will be using my machine to do everything from cabinet boxes and doors to 3D work.

ShopBot's starter set:
http://www.shopbottools.com/images/Products/bitkit.jpg

Any suggestions as what I should get and where I should get them? I prefer quality over cost.

-John Coryat

[jhedlund58]

I purchased the beginner set from shopbot. At the time people were saying don't really need any more than a few of them. I thought the set was a better deal than buying individually. I very happy to have them all.

[coryatjohn]

I should have mentioned (fixed with an edit) that I bought the starter set. Seemed like a good deal and since I haven't a clue what I'm doing, it seemed like a good idea.

Basically, what I'm curious about is what do people find are the most popular bits? What bits should I have multiples of? What bits am I likely to break easily? Should I have a selection of bits with long shanks?

Also, and this is pretty important, where should I be buying from?

[jhedlund58]

I have purchased from Beckwith tools (forum member) , McMaster-Carr and etching bits from shopbot or widgetworks. Had to buy 4" long .25 end-mill for guitar blanks. the only long bit i have. and am purchasing a .023 end mill for fret boards... both of these from mcmaster carr.

i have broken and .125 ball nose early on ... user error. keep your chip load right and u should not have a problem. my error was running too slow... guess at first i was affraid.

good luck,
hope this helps

[jTr]

John,
For cabinetry, you are missing:

5mm drill bit. I use replacements intended for line bore machines - CATCH: you'll need to buy a 10mm collet as well. Once you start using this for shelf pin holes, you'll find it is nice to convert to the whole system. Having pre-drilled holes for euro style hinge plates and drawer slides is very efficient at cabinet assembly time.

For all else - buy what you want to try. Engraving bits are an example.

Extras: 1/4" downcut, compression and straights, as you'll likely use these the most.

Don't forget - your machine is a massive planer, albeit slow. A carbide insert style surfacing bit is a nice but pricey upgrade.

Resources abound, but I get most of my bits from my local supplier, who carries Whiteside brand. I get a fair price and exemplary bits.

Amana offers lots of specialty bits in insert format - engravers, surfacing/planing. Toolstoday.com has a good selection.

A lesser known brand is Sommerfeld tools - some unique bits tailored to his style of cabinetmaking, and quite reasonably priced for good quality.

Good luck with your new machine - you're gonna love it!

jeff

[Coleman Becker]

I end up going through a lot of 1/8 inch bits so I pick them up at lowes. Also 1/4 inch bits are one of the bits that I use the most. Pick up a 1/2 inch ball nose it makes 3d work quicker

[pkirby]

Go here to browse http://www.amanatool.com/cnc-router-bits.html because they have a lot of styles with nice graphics that show you the purpose of each bit. Nothing stinks worse then starting a project, only to realize you don't have the correct bit and you have to special order it and wait for it to arrive in the mail. Once you get an idea of the types of bits you want, then you can research which is the best name brand, best price, etc.

[Red F]

If you're going to do a bit of V-carving, pick up a couple of 60 or 90 degree bits and save the nice big one for when you need the extra depth.