Skil 30-Piece Router Bit Set

Choosing the right router bit set can make or break your woodworking projects, especially if you’re just starting out. I recently had the pleasure (and a few frustrations) of working with the Skil 30-Piece Router Bit Set, model 91030. This set is designed to meet high-quality standards and comes with a variety of carbide-tipped bits, neatly organized in a solid wood case. Here’s what I found after putting these bits to the test.

The first thing that caught my eye was the variety of bits included in the set. With 30 different profiles, ranging from straight and roundover to cove and bead, this set provides a comprehensive toolkit for tackling a multitude of projects. The bits are presented in a solid wood, felt-lined case, which not only looks attractive but also helps keep everything organized and labeled. This is a boon for someone like me who often misplaces tools in the chaos of a busy workshop.

When I started using the bits, I was impressed by the initial sharpness and the clean cuts they produced. The straight bits were particularly effective, providing smooth results even on harder woods like ash and maple. I even used the straight bits for some light router planing on an ash live edge slab, and they performed admirably with no issues. The roundover and cove/bead bits also delivered clean, precise cuts, indicating high-quality, sharp edges.

However, as with any tool, there are some caveats. The packaging, while aesthetically pleasing, proved to be a bit of a challenge. The bits are held very snugly in their individual holders, making them somewhat difficult to remove without risking damage to the bits or the box, not to mention the potential for a few finger nicks. While the tight fit ensures the bits stay securely in place, a bit more flexibility in the holders would have been appreciated to avoid this minor safety hazard.

Another point of contention is the material of the bits. Although the product description and several sources claim that these bits are carbide-tipped, I found no mention of this on the actual packaging. This discrepancy raises questions about the actual material composition and the longevity of the bits. That said, the bits I’ve used so far have held up well, but only time will tell if they maintain their sharpness over extended use.

Despite these issues, the Skil Router Bit Set offers excellent value for money. The cost of the entire set is roughly equivalent to two or three individual bits, making it an affordable option for hobbyists and those new to woodworking. Even though some bits may not see frequent use, having a wide range of options available is invaluable for experimenting and discovering which profiles work best for your projects.

One of the standout features of this set is the inclusion of a variety of bearings for smoother movement along the edges of your workpieces. This is particularly useful for achieving clean, professional-looking edges on a variety of materials. I used the laminate bit extensively while working on a countertop replacement project, and it performed exceptionally well, showing no signs of dulling even after extensive use.

The set is compatible with a variety of routers, thanks to the 1/4-inch shank diameter, making it a versatile addition to any workshop. I used these bits with both a Craftsman 20V router and an older Stanley router, and they worked seamlessly with both. This universal compatibility is a significant advantage, especially if you own multiple routers or plan to upgrade in the future.

For those just getting started with routing, this set offers a fantastic introduction. The sheer number of bits allows you to experiment and learn without the need for additional purchases. However, if you’re a professional or someone who uses router bits extensively, you may find that these bits dull faster than higher-end options. This set is best suited for light to moderate use, making it ideal for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Skil 30-Piece Router Bit Set, model 91030, is a solid choice for those looking to expand their woodworking capabilities without breaking the bank. The variety of bits, the attractive and functional storage case, and the overall performance make it a worthwhile investment for beginners and hobbyists. While there are some minor issues with packaging and material transparency, the overall value and versatility of this set outweigh these concerns.

I would recommend this router bit set to anyone starting out in woodworking or looking to expand their bit collection without spending a fortune. For advanced users or professionals, it might be worth investing in higher-end bits for those profiles you use most frequently. Nonetheless, this set provides a great foundation and offers excellent performance for the price.