1/2" to 1/4" Router bit reducer?

[Jay Sco]

Hey all, I was looking for a 1/2" router bit set but they all seem to be about double the price of their 1/4" counterparts. I've seen reducers (adapters) on-line but the chain stores (Ace, Home Depot, or Lowes) hardly carry any router parts. I think there is a Granger somewhat local, any other ideas?

 

[jake00]

Does your router have multiple collets?

 

[Jay Sco]

I have no idea. It's not even for me, it's for my wife's uncle that lives in Mexico. I know it's a Makita, I think I can get a model #. What's a collet?

 

[jcbrew]

what brand router ? you can look here http://woodworking.rockler.com/c/routers-accessories

 

[Jay Sco]

It's a Makita MRP100, looks like it was only sold in foreign markets. He may be on his own here.

 

[Stuey]

The shank of a 1/2" bit has 4 times the metal as a 1/4" bit, even if the cutting profile is identically sized.

1/4" is fine for smaller sized profiles, but for larger ones 1/2" is a lot more stable.

There are adapters/reducers, but it would be best to see if your wife's uncle has a 1/4" collet for the router.

Here's an inexpensive reducer: http://www.woodline.com/p-2099-collet-reducer.aspx . This will also give you a better idea of what to ask or look for.

 

[neophyte]

The collet is the part of the router that holds the router bit, sort of like a drill chuck, but sized for a single diameter and usually smaller. Some collets are milled to the end of the router arbor, though most are removable. If the router can handle 1/2" router bits it you can almost certainly get a 1/4" collet for it from Makita. Makita also manufactures collet reducers to allow the use of 1/4" bits in a 1/2" collet if yo want to do it that way, but your just better of buying the 1/4" collet in the long run. Places that carry Makita routers should have the collets, but don't always carry them. This is a page on the Makita website that shows collet reducers from 1/2" to 1/4", and from 1/2" to 1/4". http://www.makitausa.com/en-us/Modules/Accessories/AccessoryDetails.aspx?ID=34490 These should work with most routers. The part number for the 1/2" to 1/4" collet reducer is 763803-0. This is the page that lists whole collets for the routers. http://www.makitausa.com/en-us/Modules/Accessories/AccessoryDetails.aspx?ID=34488 and this page lists collet cones. Sometimes the collet cone itself is sold separately from the collet nut. http://www.makitausa.com/en-us/Modules/Accessories/AccessoryDetails.aspx?ID=34489 IIf you want to buy a collet, You'll have to find out the router model #, and check it against the collets. Not all routers from the same manufacturer will use the same collets. As for the router bits, you're usually better of using 1/2" router bits were possible since the shank is stronger and stiffer resulting in less vibration, cleaner cuts, and you'll have less runout than if you use a collet reducer.

 

[rkevins]

try MLCS I get most of my bits from them

 

[woody 73]

I learn something new everyday I was unaware of the reducer; I have a two collet set in 1/4 & 1/2 not really a big deal just a few minutes to switch them out, but I can see the reducer saving that time.

I would think most woodworking stores would carry them,but by the time I look at every new tool my mind goes into deep space and all that comes out is drooling.

Besides (don't laugh) on my last visit I got cut so bad looking at all the lathe tools I had to go to the Emergency room; I don't think they want me back so soon.

PS: Now I can go back and look for those reducers But don't tell my wife!

 

[Stuey]

I learn something new everyday I was unaware of the reducer; I have a two collet set in 1/4 & 1/2 not really a big deal just a few minutes to switch them out, but I can see the reducer saving that time.

I would think most woodworking stores would carry them,but by the time I look at every new tool my mind goes into deep space and all that comes out is drooling.

Besides (don't laugh) on my last visit I got cut so bad looking at all the lathe tools I had to go to the Emergency room; I don't think they want me back so soon.

PS: Now I can go back and look for those reducers But don't tell my wife!

Ideally, you should use the appropriate collet without reducers. They're available so that users without 1/4" collets don't have to buy new routers.

 

[beamrider]

Woodcraft at the corner of Kenny and Bethel should have what you need, or WoodWerks, corner of Claycraft and Taylor Station.