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Hiltex 10100
- ¼ universal shank
- Affordable
- wooden case
Yonico 17702
- Large bit set
- Easy to sharpen
- Clean finish
FivePears Tungsten
- Suitable for many materials
- Comes with wood case
- Suitable for many jobs
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When choosing the best router bits, there are three main options: high-speed steel, solid carbide, and carbide tipped. If you’re looking for a longer-lasting router bit, then the two carbide options are the way to go.
In today’s guide, we’ll show you what the best carbide router bits are out of over 200 bits (over 40 kits) we researched in depth.
Best Carbine Router Bits – Hiltex 10100 Tungsten Carbide Router Bits
The best carbine router bits of over 30 sets we researched are the Hiltex 10100 Tungsten Carbide Router Bits set. With 15 high-quality bits in a powder-coated finishes, you can rest assured that these bits will last you for a very, VERY long time!
Here’s what the Hiltex 10100 Tungsten Carbide Router Bits has to offer—
- 15-bit Set
- ¼-inch Shank
- Indexed for Organization
- Powder Coated
The Hiltex 10100 Tungsten Carbide Router Bits is one of the sets that comes with a complete option. Inside the set, there are 15 pieces of router bits that you can choose from.
Each bit can make a clean and accurate cut on any kind of wood, making it recommended to use for any kind of DIY project.
Another positive thing about the product is all the bit is made from alloy steel. Therefore, they are durable and more long-lasting.
They also come with the universal ¼ inch shank, which you can use with any kind of router.
As for the organization, the router bit set comes with a wooden index case that will make it look neat, organized, and easy to bring.
Therefore, you don’t need to worry about worrying about the little pieces of bits after using them.
Pros
- Made from alloy steel
- Comes with ¼ universal shank
- Affordable
- Comes with a wooden case
Cons
- Bits could be sharper
Overall, if you are looking for something affordable with a clean finish, then Hiltex 10100 is a great option.
Top Carbide Router bits in the Market Compared
| Product Image | Product Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall - Hiltex 10100 |
| Check Today's Price |
| Best Premium - Yonico 17702 |
| Check Today's Price |
| Best Budget - FivePears Tungsten |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Stalwart Router Bit Set |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Whiteside RU2100 |
| Check Today's Price |
 | MLCS 8377 |
| Check Today's Price |
 | ABN Tungsten |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Neiko 10115A |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Meihejia Shank |
| Check Today's Price |
 | MLCS 6077 |
| Check Today's Price |
Reviews of Best Carbide Router bits
Best Premium - Yonico 17702
Key Specifications
- 70-bit Set
- ½-inch Shank
- C3 Tungsten
- Holes for Wall Hanging
If you’re looking for a more complete and various options set of bits, then look at Yonico 17702.
The Yonico router bit set comes with 70 types of bits with a full range of sizes.
All the bits are made from premium C-3 micro grain carbide blasé which makes it deliver a clean and professional finish.
The bits can be sharpened repeatedly to prevent a rough and disappointing finish.
In this new package, Yonico has made the shanks longer to protect the bits from getting loose during the shipping.
Many users claim that, despite the awesome case, the bits can fall out and scatter rather easily.
Pros
- Large bit set
- Easy to sharpen
- Made from premium C3 Carbide
- Clean finish
Cons
- Bits could stay in place for longer
For those who need various types of bits for multi kinds of jobs, then Yonico 17702 should surely be the answer. It is not only complete but also made from strong and premium materials.
Best Budget - FivePears Tungsten
Key Specifications
- 12-bit Set
- ½-inch Shank
- C3 Tungsten
- Wooden Case
The Five Pears Tungsten Carbide Router Bits is one of the sets that comes with a complete set that you can use for almost any kind of woodwork project.
The bits can be used for trimming, grooving, edging to veining wood projects.
To support this, all the router bits are made from high-quality material that is C3 hard tungsten steel and carbon steel.
With the support of this high-quality material, you can apply the bits on man kinds of material other than wood such as chipboard, MDF, board, and many others.
Like most router bit sets, it also comes with a wooden case which makes it easy to store. However, the case is neater, making it easier to restore and identify when you need it.
Pros
- Suitable for many jobs
- Made from high-quality material
- Suitable for many materials
- Comes with wood case
Cons
- Not suitable for metalworking
- Con 2
Overall, the Five Pears Tungsten Carbide Router Bits is worth buying for those who need a strong set of bits. If you are not using it for alloy, then you should try the FivePears set.
Stalwart Router Bit Set
Key Specifications
- 24-bit Set
- ¼-inch Shank
- Indexed for Organization
- Wooden Case
The Stalwart Router Bit Set is one of the sets that are made specially to support your home improvement and DIY projects.
When you purchase this set, you will get 24 pieces of bits and a ¼ shank. Therefore, you can use the bits on nearly any kind of router.
It also comes with an Allen wrench which you can use to remove bearings during your job.
However, even though they claim themselves with high-quality materials, many have been complaining about how bad their quality is.
The bits are ok and will work well for small projects but not too recommended for bigger jobs that need an extra and clean finish.
Pros
- Suitable for House Jobs
- Comes with 24 bits
- Comes with Allen wrench
- Comes with ¼ shank
Cons
- Could wear down less quickly
This may not be the best set for heavy tasks, however for house improvements and DIY projects, Stalwart Router Bit Set is more than enough.
Whiteside RU2100
Key Specifications
- Single Bit
- ¼-inch Shank
- 1-inch Length
- Made of Premium Carbide
Whiteside Router Bits RU2100 is a bit different from the other kinds of options because it only offers one type of bits.
However, the Whiteside router bit is specially made to make a perfect 1-inch length with a ¼ diameter cutting.
It also has a precision ground to maintain accuracy when using it at a high RPM.
One of the things that people have loved from the Whiteside is the result and the strong material it is made from.
Customers have been using the bits for many uses, and they say it delivers a clean result. They can also use the bit on many kinds of material, and the results are still the same, clean and neat.
Pros
- Clean result
- Industrial quality
- Made from strong material
- Use on various surface/ material
Cons
- Specified job
The Whiteside Router Bits RU2100 isn’t the type that offers various types of bits. But if you are looking for an accurate and clean result then this will help.
MLCS 8377
Key Specifications
- 15-bit Set
- ½-inch Shank
- Wooden Case
- All-Purpose Bit Sit
For newbies who want to start learning about bit application then try out MLCS 8377.
The pack contains 15 kinds of bits that are from good quality carbide. With various types of bit, you can use this pack for general purposes or small projects.
However, it is not recommended to use for bigger jobs, especially on hard type materials. Apart from the bits, the MLCS 8377 comes with a bearing and an Allen wrench.
It also comes with a sturdy wooden case to maintain all the bits inside, so it keeps tidy and safe inside. As for the price, it is quite affordable, because you pay the price for what you get.
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Various types of bit
- Comes with wooden case
- Comes with an Allen wrench
Cons
- Could cause fewer burn marks
This isn’t the best or strongest kind of sets of bits. However, this is surely a great set for those who are learning about bit applications because it is complete, and the price is affordable.
ABN Tungsten
Key Specifications
- 24-bit Set
- ¼-inch Shank
- Indexed for Organization
- Wooden Case
The ABN Tungsten Carbide Router Bit Set is also a great set for newbies and commercial users who need a complete and advanced toolset.
The bit set comes with 24 pieces of bits and ¼ inch round shank that will fit in any kind of router. As for the materials, the bits are constructed from metal.
They are not the best, but it is strong enough to use on materials such as wood. Some customers have been complaining that the bits are only sharp in the beginning.
At first, many people were satisfied with the clean and smooth results of the bits. However, after some time, the bit becomes dull and the results were a bit rougher.
Despite the cons, people loved the wooden storage it came with because it had a lock for each of its bit. Therefore, they won’t fall off easily and get lost.
Pros
- Various types
- Wooden Storage Lock
- Made from metal
- Affordable
Cons
- Could stay sharper for longer
With various types of bits, the ABN Tungsten Carbide Router Bit Set is recommended for those who want to learn more about bit applications.
Neiko 10115A
Key Specifications
- 80-bit Set
- ½-inch Shank
- Powder Coated
- Hardened Steel Alloy
One of the sets that offer the most varied type of bits is Neiko 10115A. When you purchase this set, you will get 80 bits with different shapes and results.
Even though many users have been saying they haven’t used them all, but they can come in handy for those who like wood projects.
Each bit inside this set is made from alloy steel with power coating finishing for longevity and durability.
Customers say that the sharp YG8 tungsten carbide steel is accurate and clean. Many were satisfied with the results even after a few uses.
One thing many have been complaining about is the metal case of the bits. Each slot should have their slots, however, when they open it most of them have fallen out.
Pros
- Alloy steel material
- 80 types of bits
- Comes with universal shank
- Clean Results
Cons
- Could be easier to store in case
If you like a wide variety of bits, then this is surely one of the bits sets you should have.
Meihejia Shank
Key Specifications
- 4-bit Set
- ¼-inch Shank
- C3 Tungsten
- 1/2-inch Blade Diameter
The Meihejia 1/4 Inch Shank set comes with 4 different lengths of bits, 38 mm, 24mm, 20 mm, and 10mm.
With this wide range of lengths, users can use the tool for grooming, tripping, and many other kinds of jobs.
However, keep in mind that these bits are designed for hand-held and the table-mounted router only. So, don’t use them on electric or machine drills.
As for the materials, each bit is made of C3 micro-grain Tungsten Carbide. They are also coated with Teflon, to make it heat resistant.
They should be strong; however, some have been complaining about the quality of the bits to be poor after a couple of use.
Pros
- Various length
- Suitable for many tasks
- Value for the money
- Delivers clean cuts
Cons
- Could stay sharper for longer
If you need bits for purpose matters and don’t need too much to keep, then the Meiheija ¼ inch is a great option to consider.
MLCS 6077
Key Specifications
- 15-bit Set
- ¼-inch Shank
- Wooden Case
- Allen Wrench Included
The MLCS 6077 is not much different compared to the MLCS 8377. One of the same things about the set is they both come in 15 pieces of bits that can cover most of your jobs.
As for the materials, they are from a carbide-tipped bit that can be used against hardwood and heat resistant.
Another great thing why many people purchase the MLCS 8377 is because of the affordable price offered. Compared to the other beginning pack, this offers a complete ye affordable price.
However, many viewers say that you get what you pay for. So, don’t expect that the set will last long, especially after a heavy task.
Pros
- 15 sets of bits
- Affordable price
- Wooden box for storage
- Heat resistant
Cons
- Could be more durable
Again, this is not the best bit set available, but it is recommended to buy for newbies. Not only is it complete but people can purchase it at an affordable price.
Best Carbide Router Bits Buying Guide
Now that you’ve seen the best router bits the market has to offer, it’s time we look a bit deeper at why you should get this type of bit for your router.
Why Choose Carbide?
The type of material used to construct the router bit will affect efficiency, durability, and balance. Carbide tipped and solid carbide are the more efficient options.
They can also maintain a sharper edge than high-speed steel, allowing you to produce accurate engravings in harder wood types.
Carbide router tips are costlier than high-speed but also longer lasting.
Future Woodworking Projects?
If you plan on taking more complex projects in the near future, we highly recommend that you invest in carbide bits. These bits will also let you work with a wider range of materials, so you won’t need to constantly swap between different sets.
However, if you’re new to the woodworking game, then a budget-friendly high-speed router bit set can help you hone your skills before investing in a longer-lasting router bit set.
How Frequently Do You Use Your Router?
For those who don’t user a router regularly, then high-speed steel bits are the most cost-effective bits.
On the flip side, if you use routers nearly every day, then you’ll want the kind of durability that solid carbide and carbide tipped router bits can offer.
How to Install a Router Bit
After you’ve received your router bits, here are a couple of quick tips on how to place the bit in your router.
Choosing the right bit
Double-check to ensure that you have the correct-sized bits for your router. The two shank sizes are ¼ and ½.
Clean both the bit and router
A dirty router or bit can accelerate the wear and tear of carbide bits. To clean your router, simply blow the opening with compressed air.
Installing the bit
Push the bit until it reaches the collet’s base. It should fit snugly with the router. If your ½-inch router comes with a ¼-inch collet, install the collet before mounting the ¼-inch bit.
Leave space between bit and collet bottom
Although this sounds counterintuitive, it’ll actually help maintain a longer-last carbide bit by reducing friction that would wear down the shank.
After pushing the bit all the way it, pull it out slightly so that there’s a 1/6 to 1/8-inch gap.
Tighten the collet nut
After you’ve followed the steps above, use your router’s wrench to tighten the collet nut. The bit shouldn’t wiggle or wobble in any way.
FAQ’s
It’s possible, but it can take a keen eye and steady hand to do so. If you have neither of these things, we recommend sending your router bits to a professional sharpening service, or purchasing a new kit entirely. Thankfully, carbide bits are incredibly durable, so you won’t need to replace them for several months, depending on how frequently you use the bit.
Carbide bits don’t usually rust, but if your bit uses a cobalt binder, then you’ll need to preserve it in oil while or gas to keep it from rusting over. It’ll also add a neat shine to your router bit, which won’t do much in terms of performance. If the bits do rust, you might be able to remove the rust by submerging the bit(s) in vinegar overnight.
They can be, especially since they can come with marks that indicate with router bit goes where. This will give you quick and easy access to whichever bit you need to use. However, wooden cases aren’t moisture-proof, so your bits could rust if they remain in the case for too long.
It depends on what sort of cuts you plan on producing. A set with more bits offers more versatility, but if you don’t plan on using your router very often, you’ll end up spending money on bits you don’t use. However, more bits will let you grow as a DIY woodworker without purchasing additional bits in the future.
Summary
And that concludes our best carbide router bits guide.
To refresh your memory, the best carbide router bits are the Hiltex 10100 Tungsten Carbide Router Bits for their long-lasting durability and sharpness.
If you have any questions, or if you don’t know whether the Hiltex set is right for you, we’d be happy to help in the comments section.
