Selecting router bits for your CNC can be confusing since many brands, types, and sizes are available. 

When I buy a bit, I look for three things:

1. Profile accuracy

     - Does the v-bit have a nice, pointed tip for details?

     - Does the ball nose, core box, or round nose bit cut a nice smooth semi-circular groove?

     - Is the v-bit angle accurate?

     - Is the cutting diameter accurate?

2. Performance

     - Does it produce a nice clean, crisp cut?        

        (Some types of wood are hard to route cleanly, so it's not always the bit.)

     - How long does the edge last?                             

        (It's essential to use appropriate feed and speed rates since the wrong settings can dull a bit quickly.)

3. Price

              - The cost of bits adds up, so saving a few bucks is nice.

 

The bits below are some of the ones I frequently use in my shop and classes. They have performed well in both situations - especially when working on a small format (bench top) CNC machine.

I've also found much truth in the saying: "you get what you pay for."

With that said, some brands are priced very competitively and still perform well. I've started using some of them regularly and have included a couple of them in the list below. ​

Some of the bits types below are very common and are carried by almost all the brands, and you may find other brands with similar quality and prices as those listed below - so it may be worth shopping around.

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– Randy Johnson –

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