I'm on the hunt for a reliable slab flattening router bit. I tried a budget-friendly option, but it didn't hold up at all. I'm wondering if I can sharpen the blades on that cheaper bit. Also, which brands stand out when it comes to quality in flattening router bits? Any recommendations would be appreciated!
4 Answers
For high-quality, Amana is where it's at! SpeTool offers a sweet balance between quality and price if you're looking for something more budget-friendly. Just avoid going too cheap, as you'll regret it. I’d recommend checking out a bit with replaceable inserts—Amana has a fantastic one that allows for aggressive material removal, though it can leave a rough finish if you're not careful. I found this good option from Spetool—link: [this one](https://spetools.com/products/spetool-w05003-spoilboard-surfacing-router-bit-4-flute-2-1-2-inch-dia-1-2-shank). It’s reasonably priced and delivers a nice cut quality!
Ultra-Shear offers a really excellent bit. It’s on the pricier side, but I think it’s well worth it for the performance you get!
Amana makes a router bit that I paid around $160 for, but the cool part is the blades rotate, so it’s like getting four bits in one. I've successfully flattened cutting boards and slabs with hardly any sanding needed afterward, so I’d say it's worth the investment!
Whiteside router bits are a solid choice. Just a heads up, cheaper bits tend to lose their edge quickly, so even if you sharpen them, they might not last long. If you go for budget surfacing bits, look for ones with carbide inserts; you can rotate those a few times before needing to replace them, which is more affordable in the long run.
Totally agree, Whiteside makes great bits. I've been happy with mine!
+1 for Spetool's 3” surfacing bit! I got mine off Amazon and it's been fantastic. I haven't even had to rotate or replace an insert yet after flattening a few big tables.