rail and stile bits

I like the Amana bits myself…they typically have 4 profiles….Ogee, French Provincial, Shaker, Square…..other manufactures my have different names…and perhaps different profiles.

Make sure you get a good bit….the cheapo’s will not hold up…and can turn your work into scrap….that is why I like the Amana’s….they also have a line with replaceable cutters…which are really nice…but expensive.

Second….there are 2 bit sets…or 1 bit combination sets. I like the 2 bit sets as you dont have to play with the height of the router….just switch the bit and adjust…..but they are typically more expensive then the single bit sets…On the single bit sets…one height cuts the rail…then you change height for the stile.

These bits must be used on a router table by the way….DO NOT try to hand cut with them….very dangerous…and you will ruin your work…

you should also have a minimum 2.5hp or better router with variable speed…you do not run these that fast.(make sure you use the recommended speed) ...but you need power to cut the hardwoods…because you definitely do not want chip out…

-- Woodworking.....My small slice of heaven!

I use a Katana vertical panel raiser and Katana 2 piece rail & stile bits from MLCS.

The vertical panel raisers can be used with a smaller router (I have PC690 series routers), and IMHO are safer than the bigger bits.

You do need a tall fence on your router table to support the vertical workpiece. Also, take multiple, thin passes to get to your final profile.

-- The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary. -- Vincent T. Lombardi

The Freud 2+2 set is the best I’ve used, and has a theoretical design advantage over most. I’m sure that the Whiteside and Infinity sets are top notch too.

I have both the Infinity and Whiteside sets and both are pretty comparable. The only real difference between the two is that the Infinity rail bit needed to be shimmed to match the profile of the stile bit whereas the Whiteside set was good to go off the shelf. But having to shim one or both of the bits is not unusual.

-- With God's help all things are possible- even woodworking. Woodworking is not just a hobby, it is an (expletive deleted) expensive hobby.

I use Whiteside 2 piece rail and stile bits and am very satisfied. That said, the first set I bought was from Woodline. It was a 2 piece set and did a very good job. The Woodline bits are much less expensive than Whiteside or Freud. So I guess it depends on how many doors you plan to build. If you anticipate building a lot of doors, then the better quality bits will be worth the extra money. pkennedy

-- P Kennedy Crossville, TN

Been happy with Woodline so far. Built some flat panel doors. Have not done any raised panel or curved raised panel yet. Good luck. BTKS