If you answered 'No' to any of these questions, it might be time you visit and order a new set today. Are you working with a carbide tip? Is the shank size ½'? And are you working with a reliable manufacturer, such as Whiteside.

Take a look at the bits you are working with before you start your next project and see if they meet our minimum standards. The expectations for quality router bits have been set. Made in the USA, Whiteside's high quality micro-grain carbide bits have been a staple in the woodworking community for over 40 years, for experts and DIY hobbyists alike. In the end, the Whiteside router bit was given an Excellent rating as well as being marked both Best Value and Best Overall. In a test conducted by Fine Woodworking magazine,18 different router bits were compared in an attempt to find the smoothest cutter. Whiteside Router Bits comes up time-and-again. While there are several companies that produce good router bits, go with a name you can trust. Whether you are spending $3.00 or $3,000 on your bit, you want to make sure you are getting your money's worth for your purchase. Where your router bit comes from is of great importance. But in most circumstances, you are going to rely on the stability and longevity of the ½'. There are some routers that only use ¼', so check your router before getting started.

In most cases it is best to use a ½' diameter, because it is stiffer and stronger, which gives you less vibration and a smoother cut. There are two different diameters when it comes to shank size, ¼' and ½'. All of which makes carbide bits the higher quality material and well worth the investment. Handled correctly, you will find they stay sharp for a longer time while also providing a cleaner cut than HSS bits. Carbide tips are brittle, so it is important you take care of them accordingly. While the carbide bit trumps HSS in most categories, it should be noted that you must handle and store carbide bits with care. According to Router Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Routers, carbide tips can last 80-90 percent longer than HSS bits. And when it comes to the lifespan of the bit, HSS bits simply can't compete. Carbide tip bits are harder and can hold an edge longer than HSS bits. Made from carbon steel, HSS bits have a high heat resistance, which allows the bits to maintain their strength longer. What are the materials used to make your router bits? Most router bits are made from either high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide. While there are many features you can look at to determine if you are working with dependable router bits, we narrow it down to three: material, shank diameter and manufacturer. Router bits give shape to your project, so if they are off, so is your project. And the key to any successful project is confirming you are working with quality router bits. Before you start any project, it is important to make sure you have the proper tools to complete the job. It is time to get to work, right? Well, not so fast. So you think you are ready to start your next big project? You have your idea mapped out in your head, the materials are all laid out on the workbench and you've finally set aside time to see it all come to fruition.

Whiteside router bits brand