Router Bits, sharpen or replace with Festool bits?

Acrobat

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Joined
Jun 30, 2008
Messages
471
Hi, I'm simply a DIYer and have used my 6.35mm (1/4") router bits over the years on various tables and things I've made and now find that I have quite a few bits that are rather worn and not giving a good clean cut. Since I have now gotten a 1010 Festool Router and a 6.35mm collet and its 8mm collet also, I am wondering what's better price wise? Get new 6.35 standard make bits, sharpen existing bits (if possible?), or simply get new 8mm Festool bits? I won't do it all at once, just on a as needs be basis. Any advice appreciated. I do have a larger router for all my 12.7 mm (1/2" bits) and they are so far mostly ok so no problem there for now).
thanks
 
There are a lot of variables, like the cost sharpening in your area, that I don't know. I think this is better asked of our members than of Festool. Hopefully, some members will read and respond, or I can move it to the Festool Tools section of the forum rather than the Ask Festool section, just let me know.

Thanks.
 
Shane's right - lots of unknowns here.

Some router bits just can't be sharpened because it changes critical geometry.  Most straight bits will be ok, but you may have to take multiple passes to get the width of the cut spot on.

Here in my part of the US (Southwest high desert), it usually isn't cost effective to sharpen router bits.

HOWEVER, first try a good cleaning - soak in a household cleaning solution, brush with a brass brush, dry well and try the bit - often thats all thats needed.

After that, try a small diamond stone such as a DMT diamond sharpener will sharpen most bits with flat cutters.

If you have a spiral bit, take it to a professional.

Hope some of this helps...
 
One brand of bits I buy, goes right to my sharpener before I even use them.  The price is good and after a tune up they cut better then a more expensive equivalent. 

Of course my sharpener is cheap (so I have been told) I only pay 24 bucks for my set of 3 24" planer knives, 16 bucks for my 16" jointer knives and about 12 bucks a blade for my Kapex.
 
Yeah, I wasn't sure what forum to post it in, so please feel free to move this into whatever is most appropriate Shane.
I understand regarding the variables, thought I'd perhaps get a general consensus. I feel I will more than likely purchase new bits as required, but I will certainly have a look at cleaning them up best I can first and see what I can do to sharpen the flat edged ones. Most are either trimming or small round over bits a few for trenching so a bit wider but rather blunt now.
thanks for the suggestions on cleaning Jesse.

 
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