Pattern Bits

[Mike OMelia]

I am looking for a good set of pattern bits with at least 1" or a bit more of cutting surface. I would like diameters of 1/4", 1/2", and 3/4" with 1/2" shanks. Of course, a 1/4" shank on the 1/4" bit is ok. I would like to find these in top and bottom bearing configurations, except for the 1/4" which I realize is not available (bottom). Recommendations are gratefully sought. Thanks!

Mike

[Dave Gaul]

Mike,

Are you looking for bits that have both top & bottom bearings, or some with top and some with bottom?

[Angie Kopacek]

I've used both Whiteside spiral pattern and CMT pattern bits in the past and been very happy with their performance. With CMT, go with the shear pattern if possible.

I've never tried it, but Rockler has a 3/4" diameter x 1-1/2" length shear pattern bit with bearings on both top and bottom which might be of interest.

[Mike OMelia]

I've used both Whiteside spiral pattern and CMT pattern bits in the past and been very happy with their performance. With CMT, go with the shear pattern if possible.

I've never tried it, but Rockler has a 3/4" diameter x 1-1/2" length shear pattern bit with bearings on both top and bottom which might be of interest.

Yes, either top or bottom. I suppose top and bottom would be more versitile for the larger diameters. I have a 1/2" top bearing bit, but for cutting heavy stuff, I think I would prefer a bit bigger, and the 1/2" shaft for strength.

Mike

[Mike Cameron]

How about Lee Valley?

Template Bits:
http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=30166&cat=1,46168,46171&ap=1

Double-Bearing Flush Trim Bits:
http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=51851&cat=1,46168,46171&ap=1

Laminate Flush Trimming Bits:
http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=30165&cat=1,46168,46171&ap=1

[Mike Henderson]

If you're looking for a deal, try the MLCS package (http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/shopsite_sc/store/ec100901.html).

Mike

[Dave Gaul]

I've been wondering if this one wouldn't be a good one to have:

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=21267

You can also usually find CMT pattern bits for great prices at woodcraft.com, in the clearance section... I have one I bought there and it is a great bit.

Not sure though, but why would you need so many various diameters of flush trim/patter bits? I could see having different lenghts, but a 1/2" dia trim bit will trim anything (and probably better) that a 1/4" dia bit will....

[Steve Griffin]

For a bottom bearing, I'd suggest just one or two very high quality ones. My favorite bit is a 1.5" spiral carbide with a double bottom bearing. Too bad these solid bits are not available in top bearings.

[Mike OMelia]

Mike, I was wondering about that MLCS kit. I am considering it. Dave, that looks like a nice setup! I am a bit confused... is that a bearing (bottom) held in place with the collar? Thus it could be used as a pattern bit?

Mike

[Mike OMelia]

I went back and studied the info on that Rockler bit. That appears to be what I am looking for. Plus some. It can be used as a top or bottom bearing bit!

Too cool.

The "small" kit meets my needs. It appears to be on sale as well (price is in red).

Thanks!

Mike

[glenn bradley]

I've been wondering if this one wouldn't be a good one to have:

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=21267

I accomplish the same thing by changing bearings. If you do not have a collection of bearings and collars, you may want to consider it. It opens up new uses for your existing bits.


Not sure though, but why would you need so many various diameters of flush trim/patter bits? I could see having different lenghts, but a 1/2" dia trim bit will trim anything (and probably better) that a 1/4" dia bit will....

I try to use the largest bit (http://www.sawmillcreek.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=135404&d=1261008607) that will do the job. I don't think I have ever used my 1/4" pattern bits although I have a couple that came with sets I picked up on clearance somewhere.

[Mike OMelia]

Anybody have coupons or codes for free shipping at Rockler?

I found one! V0110

Enter it near the end of the process (it was on sale... 29.99 vs 59.99)

Thanks for all the help guys.

Mike

[Rick Lizek]

We use the insert tooling pattern bits. A bit more cost initially but when you consider sharpening a standard pattern bit the diameter changes. Insert bits give you two edges so you are already ahead. Insert bits costs around the same as sharpening so you are even on that end. Amana and others make these bits now. Don't be fooled by the initial costs. Then again if you are a hobby woodworker you may never sharpen the regular pattern bits for years.

[Gerry Grzadzinski]

These are my favorite.
http://www.eagleamerica.com/product/v117-0842
The biggest one cuts through everything like butter.

[Dave Gaul]

I went back and studied the info on that Rockler bit. That appears to be what I am looking for. Plus some. It can be used as a top or bottom bearing bit!

Too cool.

The "small" kit meets my needs. It appears to be on sale as well (price is in red).

Thanks!

Mike


It does look like the bottom bearing is held on by the collar... looks like you can change either bearing, thus you could use any size bearing to cut different depths...
Glen has a good point about having a bearing kit (I should get one!), but if you don't already have a pattern bit, the rockler one seems like a good start!
Let us know how you like it!

[Mike OMelia]

Something I like about the Rockler kit: I am routing out mold to hold the guitar shape (the negative). I also need the positive to bend the wood on. Once I have cut the shape to precisely fit the negative, I can then use the slightly smaller bearing to reduce the size of the positive to make up for the thickness of the guitar sides!

[Mike OMelia]

I'm sitting here looking at the smaller bit... yes you can take the bottom bearing off, but its riding on a 1/2" shaft. The only reason for taking it off is to replace it. The allen wrench in the kit does not even undo the lock set screw.

I hope the taller one goes on sale!

This bit was $29 delivered.

Mike