Replies

1. 
   noone51 | Nov 26, 2002 11:47pm | #1

   I use the Freud set in combination with a Freud raised panel bit. It takes a few practice runs to get it setup perfectly but I think you'ld need to do that with most of the others also. I like mine and would have no problem recommending them to others.

2. 
   Lar55 | Nov 27, 2002 01:38am | #2

   I've used Whiteside in the past and had good luck with them.  Adjustments were minimal in the beginning and after that they run great.

3. 
   mgumaer | Nov 27, 2002 04:31am | #3

   Jesada seems to often have a sale on their rail, stile and raised panel bit set. Can't say as I've tried others to compare, but, they seem to work fine. The raised panel bit is horizontal and will require a variable speed router because of its large diameter.

   matt

4. 
   AlanTurner | Nov 27, 2002 05:10pm | #4

   I use the MLCS (or MCLS?, can't ever recall; go to Google) and it has worked fine, and is perhpas a bit less expensive than others.  I have their horiz raised panel bit as well, without complaint.

5. 
   charlesm | Nov 27, 2002 07:39pm | #5

   If you will allow me a plug for Freud products, there are very few things that distinguish bits for cabinet doors between different manufacturers other than the patented design we have for horizontal raised panel bits. Ours have 2 main cutting wings that remove the bulk of the material and two extra smaller cutters with down shear to cut the part of the profile at the outer edge of the cutter. The down shear cutters prevent splintering across the grain and give a finish that is unobtainable with other cutters. Here's a good image of the raised panel bit:

   http://www.freudtools.com/woodworkers/bits_blades/bit.html

   Charles M

   Freud, Inc.

1. 
   JeffKurtz | Nov 27, 2002 07:54pm | #7

   Charles,

   I've been buying a few Freud shaper cutters (no small investment) as I can afford them.  I have to tell you how beautifully they cut.  Just this AM I cut an ogee profile on some curly maple.  Not only was there no tear-out, but the pieces won't even need sanding.

   The waste is relatively free from dust, being nice translucent shavings.  Thanks for providing us with such a great product.  (Now, if we could just do something about the price......)

   I'm in the middle of restoring the Victorian home I live in, and plan to use my shaper to make all the trim for the second floor.  Was able to use a radius raised panel bit to match the lower floor's mop boards.  Guess I'll be trying windows and doors next.

   Jeff

1. 
   charlesm | Nov 27, 2002 09:00pm | #8

   Jeff,

   Glad to hear they're working well for you. For me doors are fairly easy but windows are tough. I've only made a couple and that was because I had to. Given the choice I buy the windows.

   Charles M

   Freud, Inc.

1. 
   noone51 | Nov 27, 2002 09:35pm | #9

   Charles, I have the kit 95-100. The panel bit appears to be the same one you've mentioned. The rail and stile bits also work well for mirrors. I recently built a 3 panel wall mirror that was a snap with those bits.

1. 
   charlesm | Nov 27, 2002 09:54pm | #10

   I've heard that mirrors work well with the stile and rail frames but haven't had an opportunity to try it myself. I assume you used 1/4" mirror?

   Sorry if we're hijacking this thread.

   Charles M

   Freud, Inc.

2. 
   noone51 | Nov 27, 2002 10:36pm | #11

   Yes they do and they were 1/4" mirrors.

3. 
   Sancho | Nov 29, 2002 07:38am | #12

   Ive been using freud rail and stile bits and their panel bits for along time. Ive somewhat abused it had the rail and stile bits resharpened  cuz I dinged them up and sstill they worked great. Ran the panel bit into a aluminum fence (please dont ask :) ) had it resharpened and its been working good also. So I would recommend them needless to say. At Darkworks cut to size made to burn......Putty isnt a option

6. 
   JeffKurtz | Nov 27, 2002 07:45pm | #6

   ALL the brands mentioned above are very good bits and you'd do well buying any of them.  None are expensive, but when you consider that the bit will be spinning at 15,000 - 20,000 rpm., you really don't want the "20 piece set for only $79.50" variety.

   Jeff