I have a trim bit that is totally stuck in the collet. Any idea how best to get it out? Also, I want to buy another one, I would appreciate first hand recommendations. Thanks as usual.
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Replies
“[Deleted]”
Of course. loosen the collet. Then squirt in a little penetrating oil. Then give the end of the bit a rap rap rap with a soft plastic or wood mallet.
I can't really recommend one. The only one i've owned is a Ridgid brand. I have no complaints.
I had one of those. Always had to tap the side of the bit a few times with the wrench before the bit would release.
I tossed it in the trash eventually and replaced with a Bosch Colt. It gets great reviews and I’m happy with mine.
Mike
Lots of people make the mistake of letting the bit drop all of the way in before tightening it. As a rule, this shouldn't be done because some bits have a slight shoulder just under the cutting head and this keeps the collet from fully tightening on the bit shank. It's best to make a practice of leaving about 1/8-1/4" between the collet and cutting head. I'm not saying that this was the cause of your issues, but...maybe.
10 years ago I bought a Bosch Colt and it's still going strong. A few years ago I dedicated it to my shop-built portable router table so I got a Dewalt 611 that has both fixed base and plunge base. It's been really handy. I especially like the built-in light that illuminates the work.
Finally, when I got my little CNC machine 2 years ago, I bought a Makita (model RT0701C) and I have no complaints with that either. Bonus: There is a company in Ohio that makes a 1/8 inch collet for the Makita that allows use of 1/8" shank bits on the CNC.
Basically any of these 3 will give you great service but the DeWalt's work light is so nice for hand-held routing, I don't think I could do without it!
Mike