Forstner Bits/ Drill Press Accessories

I have a set of WoodRiver Forstner bits from Woodcraft. I have no idea where they are made but in terms of quality I am very happy with them. I use them pretty often and they have remained sharp and cut well. I cant imagine the Freud bits which are 3 times the price cutting much better, at least not enough to justify the price difference. Just my opinion though, I have never used Freud bits.

-- Dan - "Collector of Hand Planes"

I have a portercable set I got at Lowes it works pretty good for what I use it for which is almost soley counterboring for plugs.

-- slowing down with bring you greater speed then going fast

My set goes from 1/4” – 2 1/4” it covers most of my needs.

-- I don't make mistakes, I have great learning lessons, Greg

I’m quite happy with my WoodRiver Forstner bits.

While speaking of Forstner bits let me comment that it is not very hard to sharpen them yourself. Some suggest that you sharpen the bits before you use them the first time because they do not come from the factory very sharp. I do not do that (maybe I should) but after I’ve used a bit several times, I often take a minute and sharpen it up. Sharp is good.

-- Rich, Cedar Rapids, IA - I'm a woodworker. I don't create beauty, I reveal it.

I have just gotten a set of Grizzly carbide tipped for Christmas. They work very well. I’m also going to get the Grizzly carbide tipped filler set. It covers the 1/16s in between the usual 1/4 inch sets. I’ve used the inexpensive Frostner bits for many years. I can’t see the expensive bits.

Now! having said that. If you really do have an unlimited source of funds. The best Frostner bits I know of is Maxi Cut. I just ran the numbers a complete set & an RotaStop adapter By 16ths 5/8 to 1-1/16 and by 1/8s 1-1/4 to 2-1/8 is around $ 450.00

-- One who works with his hands is a laborer, his hands & head A craftsman, his hands, head & heart a artist

Thanks guys I think I’ll take a look at HD or Lowes for the bits and perhaps when I go to the states I’ll take a look at Woodcraft.

-- AllWood

Regarding accessories for a drill press – -

If your DP does not have one, adding a light is a great idea.

A system for placing a dust collector vacuum close to the drill bit is also a good idea.

Most worthless accessory – Laser

-- Rich, Cedar Rapids, IA - I'm a woodworker. I don't create beauty, I reveal it.

Might check Leigh Valley and Highland, they only sell quality. Freund is italian I believe. They are good quality tools.

-- "some old things are lovely, warm still with life ... of the forgotten men who made them." - D.H. Lawrence