Replies

1. 
   Knotscott | Aug 16, 2005 12:22pm | #1

   I have several MLCS bits and have found them to be decent value bit, but haven't tried their panel raiser. They'll dull faster than Freud and Whiteside, but cost alot less. IMO they're most suitable for applications where they won't be seeing real heavy use. The free s/h is good too!

   
   

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   Edited 8/16/2005 5:23 am ET by scotty

1. 
   none | Aug 20, 2005 03:21am | #6

   I recently completed a curved front desk which had several ribs that were routed out of 3/4 ply. Probably 600-700 lin feet total with inside edges and outside edges. Used MLCS bit for whole job, don't think anybody elses bit would have done any better. Sorry, I can't support your idea of other bits lasting longer. Longest lasting bit I have ever used is a Her-Saf reverse helix bit for cutting dados in 3/4 ply for cubbies. Been using the same bit for 4 jobs- a couple of THOUSAND FEET of dado in each job. It is a screw on cutter designed for panel router.

1. 
   Knotscott | Aug 20, 2005 06:20am | #7

   Interesting timing for your post. I've always been happy with the performance to cost ratio of my MLCS bits, but while working with red elm tonight my 1/4" straight bit dulled so badly it would hardly cut, then I broke my MLCS dovetail bit when it heated up...in part b/c I could no longer precut with the straight bit. I have no doubt the MLCS bits did a good job for you, but my experience tells they won't hold up to hard use the way the better bits will. You can disagree with me if you like, but most pro shops and seasoned veterans won't. The fact that MLCS offers a higher end alternative with the Katana line gives some indication of the intended market for the MLCS line. MLCS is reputable and I doubt they'd offer a higher end bit that's a complete clone of the cheaper line. Even if you were to compare just the metallurgy and manufacturing techniques, I think you'd find that Katana, Freud, CMT, Amana, Infinity, Whiteside, Eagle America, and other true high peformance bits are simply made and sharpened to a higher standard than the MLCS line. Finer carbide, finer sharpening grits, better shanks, bearings and braizing techniques usually result in a better grade bit that stays sharp longer and performs at a high level longer. That's not intended as a slam against MLCS. MLCS is great to deal with, offers a fair price on a good product, has free s/h, and a definite place in the market. The sets are essentially about the same level as Woodline, Holbren, Bladesnbits, and Price Cutter's Bargain Bits, etc. All lower cost, decent value bits for hobbyists.

   Edited 8/22/2005 5:58 pm ET by scotty

2. 
   MatthewSchenker | Aug 16, 2005 08:14pm | #2

   CherryDust,
   I have used lots of MLCS bits and I have been very happy with them. I have their raised panel bits and their stacked rail-and-stile bits They are definitely fine quality for a hobbiest woodworker.

   Here are links to the bits I have used:
   http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/smarthtml/pages/bt_stack.html
   http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/smarthtml/pages/raiscov.html

   I recommend them!

   
   

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   Edited 8/16/2005 1:15 pm ET by MatthewSchenker

3. 
   Dave45 | Aug 17, 2005 06:00am | #3

   I have several MLCS router bits - including two panel raising bits and two rail and stile cutters.  I've had excellent luck with them.  I finally had the ogee panel raising bit re-sharpened a couple of years ago and it's as good as new.

4. 
   kcgolfer | Aug 17, 2005 04:43pm | #4

   Cherrydust,

   I have used both of the 1/2 inch shanks on this page. They are the only two raised panel bits I own, so I have nothing to compare them to. I have made several doors and panels with each bit, and I've been quite happy with the results.

   Free shipping is always a plus!

5. 
   artd10 | Aug 20, 2005 02:11am | #5

   I've used the MLCS rail/stile and panel raising bits to build oak cabinets for two kitchens. Recently I tried their Katana bits to do a cherry kitchen. I was very satisified with the results. Art 

1. 
   forestgirl | Aug 21, 2005 05:15am | #8

   "Recently I tried their Katana bits to do a cherry kitchen."  What's your impression of the difference between the Katana and the MLCS??forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>) 

1. 
   artd10 | Aug 21, 2005 05:30pm | #9

   I bought the Katana bits because I wanted a back cutter on the raised panel cutter and the difference in cost was really pretty small.  Quantitively both produced satisfactory results. Subjectively the Katana bits seem to produce a slightly smoother surface and require less feed presure on the router table, however this may be just the difference between red oak and cherry. The Katana bits are heftier and incorporate anti-kickback design which I view as a plus.  Hope this helps.

   Art

1. 
   forestgirl | Aug 21, 2005 07:19pm | #10

   "Hope this helps."  Thanks Art, yes it does.forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>) 

2. 
   MatthewSchenker | Aug 21, 2005 11:44pm | #11

   forestgirl,
   I just ordered some Katana raised-panel bits and straight bits from MLCS. I've been a big fan of MLCS, but this is my first time using their Katana line.The bits haven't arived yet, but when they do I'll post a review.

1. 
   forestgirl | Aug 22, 2005 12:53am | #12

   Thanks, Matthew.  I know I have a prejudice toward the more expensive bits when contemplating ordering a complex profile or matching bits.  Maybe you can get me over that, LOL!forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>)