WhitesideRouter Bits RU4700 Standard Spiral Bit with Up Cut Solid Carbide 1/4-Inch Cutting Diameter and 1-Inch Cutting Length

I have only had time to use this bit maybe 5 times, but I am absolutely thrilled with the results so far. If you are someone looking to take the step up from a lower end straight bit to a spiral bit, this one is great. It is extremely sturdy feeling, and so far has gone through pine, poplar, and oak really easily, leaving a very smooth surface. I've used it in the plunge and on the table. Both worked well. It is just night and day from a straight edge. Are there bits out there that will likely last longer? Sure, but they are well over $100. For $30 I think this is a great bit if you are a hobbyist or even a mid-level professional who isn't doing heavy routing all day.I really like the little tube the bit came in too. One downside is that for newer woodworkers there is not a clear minimum insert line. Make sure you measure the depth.The best upside is the really high cutting length. I had no issues sitting it in the table and getting a 1/4 box joint on a 3/4 piece of wood. Spending the extra for the full 1in cutting height is worth it in my opinion.

This particular router bit is somewhat unique since it is a 1/4 inch diameter solid carbide bit up cut bit with a 1/2 inch diameter shank. The 1 inch depth is adequate for usage, but to me the most important reason to purchase this bit is the shank diameter. The larger shank yields a very stiff bit and this combination is somewhat hard to find.

Although in the past I've purchase other brands of router bits I can say without reservation that this brand beat all the rest in durability and sharpness. They cost more but you get what you pay for. Easily recommend.

Fyi, these are *not* made in the USA, the "Made in USA" has been whited-out on the packaging

I used it to clean up drilled mortises in red oak. It cut very smoothly with no grain tear out. I've seen reviews where the bit has broken. It is solid carbide. Carbide is extremely hard but also brittle. If you put too much pressure on it, it WILL break. Just take it easy and don't hog a full depth cut all at once and it will work just fine.

Made beautiful slots to hold a plexiglass door for an LPL (Little Public Library). I have a few Whiteside bits and a collection of less expensive bits I bought bundled in a set. The difference in results is substantial. The Whiteside bits don't burn the wood, or tear out. The are obviously very sharp and have lasted well. If you have not tried a Whiteside bit, you ought to experience the difference for yourself.

I own many Whiteside router bits, and this one is no exception to the rule that they are great. They cut really well, hold their edges for a long time and are milled precisely. For the price they are my favorite bits by far.

The Whiteside Router Bits are made in the USA of quality materials and, in my experience, have always arrived sharp and ready to use. These are robust, premium level bits that are designed to be used numerous times. Arrived on time and packaged properly.