Best Router bits to start with?

[jeffinsgf]

I really appreciate all the great feedback, this is very helpful and I agree that set of Bosch bits I have, I've used maybe 5 or 6 of those.

I think I'll get a few of the Amana and Wookpeckers, Pattern, flush cut bits to start with. Now to figure out the mix of 1/2" or 1/4" LOL, I've only ever purchased the 1/4" so the OF 1400 EQ being able to accept 1/2" will be great.

Figuring the mix is easy. 1/2" shank whenever you possibly can. 1/4" when that's the only option. That may be a little bit of an oversimplification, but you'll figure out the exceptions along the way.

 

[Packard]

I'm in the UK so I can't advise you on US brands. But whichever you choose - buy an aerosol can of PTFE dry lubricant, and coat your bits thoroughly before you use them. It will drastically reduce the amount of resin and other sludge which builds up on the bit and shortens its life. Give the bit a wipe over and re-coat after you've used it.

Will it affect subsequent application of a finish? PTFE can be difficult to remove entirely.

 

[rmhinden]

I feel like I'm the only one that gravitates towards 8mm shank regardless of having a 1/2 motor.

No, you are not. I prefer 8mm shank bits in my OF1010 and Shaper Origin, but I do use 1/2" shank bits in my router table.

Bob

 

[woodbutcherbower]

Will it affect subsequent application of a finish? PTFE can be difficult to remove entirely.

Not at all - the amount of dry PTFE remaining on the material surface is virtually zero. If you want to be 100% sure - most commercial PTFE aerosols use acetone as a solvent. Give the surface a wipe over with 99.9% pure solvent after machining - and you’ll be good. Even without doing this, I’ve never experienced a problem.