MLCS rail/stile route bit question
bszydlo
| Posted in Power Tools and Machinery on
I am in the market for a set of rail and stile bits with a minimal bevel. I noticed that both Eagle and MLCS both make a matched “shaker set”. MLCS has them on sale right now for $70 while Eagle is charging $120. Has anyone used MLCS matched set cutters and if so, I would greatly appreciate any opinions you could offer.
Also, I have never used R/S bits to make a doors. I always thought that the more elaborate profiles offered more gluing surface thus a stronger joint. Since this bit is 15 degrees it doesn’t seem it would offer much more strength than a regular T/G joint (using a flat plywood panel). If anyone has used this profile I would appreciate any input regarding the final strength of the joint.
Thanks for your help, Bill
Replies
Hi,
I'm a big fan of MLCS bits. As a matter of fact, I just took delivery today of their new edge-banding bit (model #7732).
They offer great bits for a moderate price. In my own comparisons, I have found MLCS to be at least equal to Amana and Freud. They are better, in my opinion, than Jesada. The only bits I have found that outlast MLCS are Whiteside. However, MLCS bits are more reasonably priced. Also, MLCS has a huge selection right on their Web site or in their catalog. I have often found it difficult to locate a specific Whiteside bit.
Anyway, about their stacked rail-and-stile bits...
The very first MLCS bit I ever owned was a stacked rail-and-stile "beading" profile. It was MLCS model #8844. That was when I was first learning about woodworking -- I didn't prepare my stock properly, I hogged out the entire profile in one pass, and I didn't clamp the pieces very effectively! Still, the bit created a good glue surface. And after about seven years of rugged use, the doors I made with that bit are still strong.
The bit you are talking about is MLCS model #8837. The glue surface of all MLCS stacked rail-and-stile bits is the same. They reveal a good deal of face grain for a good glue surface. Of course, it also depends somewhat on the width of your rails and stiles.
My suggestion is to go ahead and buy the MLCS bit.
Not used the bit your looking at but have used many of the MLCS bits with great success. Made 12 oak doors using a 1/4" shank rail and style router bit.
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