2 questions
Is there an alternative to the Whiteside UDC9112 Ultimate Trim Combination Bit?
and
What’s this brand/model of full face respirators I see in some woodworking videos please? Might find them on turners. I’ve seen models with what I think are two fan vent holes on the top and I think it works by forcing filtered air into the mask. I’d imagine they’re not cheap.
Replies
I don't know if there's an alternative, but if you're going to use a bit often, buy the Whiteside. They really are the best that's out there. Cheap bits wear out, especially the bearings.
A picture of the respirator would help. But the one seen most often is the Sundstrom SR500. It does a fantastic job. There's a rechargable battery pack on a belt that powers the respirator/face shield. First choice is always to collect the dust right at the source. But if it does become airborne, the Sundstrom will protect your lungs. But no, it isnt cheap. But its a lot cheaper than health care.
I have the Whiteside bit, and it is fantastic. You can even go against the grain in many situations. Infinity markets a different bit that competes with the Whiteside, but its cutting edge pattern doesn't look as effective as the Whiteside bit's.
There are two bits, both with 1 inch of cutting edge. One has double bearings, which is useful when you need to flip the work. The other has just one bearing, which allows you to make multiple sequential passes to get more than an inch--for instance, if you have a chair leg that is 1.5 inches in width, you can use a pattern and get the desired result with two passes.
This is an affordable alternative to the Sundstrom. It is light and well balanced, so very comfortable.
:https://pekesafety.com/collections/respirators-and-dust-masks/products/powercap-active-particulate-papr?variant=31337357738062.
Trend makes a similar model for about the same money but feels more like a brick hanging off your head.
If money is no object the Sundstrom is probably the best.