Collet Extension?

[shilala]

I'd like to grab a collet extension so I can use some short 1/8" bits I have.
I intend to use it sparingly, just for finishing 3d passes, final cleanup.
I found a post from '05, and guys didn't sound like it's a good idea. I'm guessing it was about the quality of the tool and vibration wrecking a guy's spindle.

I have a router, not a spindle, and those PC routers can take a good bit of pounding.
My question is, do any of you guys use these?
If so, what brand, and where'd you find them?

Thank you!!!

[GeneMpls]

This was one of the first things I bought- an Enco .5 inch extension for
.125 bits. Was told later that Enco was a cheap brand but I use it often
and works great... I did shorten it so the collet rides against the .5
collet. Gene

[scottp55]

Scott, I imagine you've looked at these? No use to you? Heard from 2 guys that they were great.
http://www.precisebits.com/products/equipment/porter-cable_0429_kits.asp?tsPT=!!!Porter-Cable_0429!!!Kit!!!PG!!!

[Brady Watson]

Stubby Collet Chuck (http://www.shopbotblog.com/index.php/2006/01/just-a-little-bit/)

-B

[shilala]

Scott, I don't even understand that page. I need the dumb version.
Brady, I'm pretty sure I saw that Enco Collet extension at Amazon, but I kind of ruled it out because it was 3.5" long. I guess I need to see how much of the extension I can feed up into my router?
The Enco is at the high end of the price range, but if it works and doesn't wobble like crazy, it's certainly worth it.
I don't want my 1/8 bits to make a 1/4 kerf. :D

[Brady Watson]

The Enco unit is precise enough not to wobble - otherwise I would not have recommended it.

If you find that it is too long, a shorter length is just a cutoff wheel away. Lop off the extra length with a 4" disc and then dress the top edge with a flap sander/grinder wheel.

I've done this also with super long 1/2" ball end mills (6" OAL @ 4" LOC) to gain Z height. You score the carbide & smack the stub to shorten it. Unlike HSS, it will just break off & not bend.

-B

[hh_woodworking]

Those are most precise than the standard router collet. They run quiter than the stock one , also you have the ability to use 1/8 bits. I have been very happy with them. They are not an extension to the bit length

[shilala]

Welp, you guys talked me into the Enco.
Brady, I'd thought about shortening one up, but I figured I'd need to take it to my brother's lathe and didn't want to mess around if I could avoid it.
I'll cross that bridge when I come to it, if I do.
Thanks, everyone!!! :tu

[Bob Eustace]

Scott an easy way used by a few of us here is to drill a hole in steel or brass stock round bar and super glue the bit in. I was horrified with this idea until I tried it! Now use it all the time!

[shilala]

That idea horrifies me, Bob. If I had a lathe, Maybe. But clamping up a brass rod in a wood vise and drilling it free-hand is what I'd end up doing cause I'm too lazy to drag out my drill press. I'd still make a mess if I used the drill press, I'm sure.

[Bob Eustace]

Originally I felt the same Scott but it works 100% OK. Yes you do need a lathe and you MUST use a centre drill.