Editorial Review

Are expensive router bits worth the cost? After testing Freud's 1/2-inch shank set, we think the answer is yes. The features found in these Freud bits--long-lasting micrograin carbide/titanium tips, tri-metal brazing, and an antikickback design--make them a better choice than less-expensive options. Each Freud bit is computer-balanced to run vibration- and chatter-free at speeds well in excess of the typical 22,000 rpm of most routers. These bits have a high shear angle that produces less tear-out and chatter marks, leaving a cross-grained cut that requires little or no sanding. Multiaxis grinding helps ensure the proper relief angle on cutting edges regardless of how the bit is oriented. The kit includes a variety of useful bits most frequently used by woodworkers and comes in a sturdy wooden case for maximum protection of the cutting edges. --Tim Block ... Read more

Features

• High shear angle for less tear-out and chatter marks
• Bits for V-grooving and flush trimming to chamfering and dovetailing
• All bits are solid carbide or carbide-tipped
• Anti-kickback design
• Perma-SHIELD-coated to reduce friction and heat build-up

Reviews (15)

Close To Perfection
What can one really say about router bits? This is a great set; a fine selection of commonly used bits and enough for just about any hand-held routing application. 1/2" shank is the way to go and I'd only use a quarter inch in a pinch. The case the bits come in is substantial as well. My only gripe is that the straight bits seem to be a tad undersized; maybe they're gauged for plywood? In any case, this is a great value and I'm pleased as punch.

Excellent Quality
I have used this set of Freud bits in my shop for several years and I have not needed to have them sharpened yet.The cut is smooth and chatter free.These bits seem to cut through the hardest of wood effortlessly.I own many other brands of router bits, and I think that Freud has a far superior product.You may pay a little more for these bits than the cheaper bits from other manufacturers, but the money is well spent.

Can't fault this set
A very fine set of bits, I'm pleased. The only glitch is the plastic form inside the box; it allowed a bit to get loose and rattle around (and chip) during shipping. Amazon set it right, but I wish Freud would find a way of really locking the bits in during shipping. Other than that, a wonderful starter set. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Router Bits   

Features

• Kickback reducing design for safe bit use
• Adjustability for stock from 1/2" to 1-1/4" thick
• Micro grain carbide for razor sharp cuts
• Compression designed cutters for chip free cuts
• Precision computer balanced bits for extreme accuracy

Reviews (4)

Poor packaging caused damage
I did not take other reviews seriously and had to experience on my own. Very poor packaging, both original item and replacement came badly damaged. Router carbide tips were all chipped off due to seperation from original merchandise box, found them loose in the shipping package. One would think that after many returns shipping department does something to avoid sending packages back and forth, no such luck yet. I have to give customer service credit, they make returns as painless as possible, no hassle at all, except I am still waiting for my router bits.

Poor packing caused extensive damage.
INSPECT YOURS CLOSELY BEFORE YOU USE IT!!!
Mine were badly damaged due to an amazingly bad packaging job. The 2 bits arrived completely separate from their product packaging, which was completely closed, leading me to believe that they were thrown into shipping box like that. When I put them back in their package to return them, I shook it really hard, and cannot conceive that they could have shaken loose. Nearly every tooth suffered at least one chip, most of them very large, and 2 were cracked all the way through the tooth. If I used these bits, I'm confident they would have shattered, and thrown shrapnel. 100 % amazon's responsibility. I read another review mentioning the same problem. LOOK CLOSELY AT YOURS BEFORE YOU USE IT!

Freud Did It Again
At first I thought how could Freud have created an adjustable groove bit, with the seemingly single cutter, and make it adjustable. Then I discovered that it really was two cutters that were sandwiched together. Their carbide tip is a lot wider than the plates that hold them. Additionally they are offset, so when they are sandwiched without any spacers, they are just like having the one bit. With the included spacers, you can adjust that groove cutter to a nice range of sizes.
Additionally the two large cutters that make up the tongue bit are adjustable with the spacers that are provided. They are stacked on the bit so you don't have to go looking for them when you want to make a change.
I have a lot of Freud bits, and I have bought all of them from Amazon. The price and convenience can't be beat. The one complaint that I have is that Freud does not wrap these bits in a way that protects them from a UPS shipment. Do you know what UPS stands for? Unbelievably Pulverized Shipments. :-) With carbide tipped bits, which are super brittle, rolling around in the box, after they come loose from the snap together plastic carrying enclosure, they are left to do battle with one another. Consequently, check your faces for defects when you get them. Amazon has the greatest customer service.
All in all a great set of bits, highly recommended. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Routers    2. Router Bits   

Features

• Laminated MDF fence faces, chip guard and mounting hardware included
• Separate adjustable infeed and outfeed fences for versatility
• Twin adjustment knobs offer superior accuracy and infinite adjustability
• Cast and machined aluminum and steel construction for durability
• Integrated dust collection port helps keep work area clean

Reviews (15)

Great Fence
I just purchased and received this fence albeit without the 4 threaded inserts which should have been included. I did call customer service at Freud who promised to mail them out to me that day. In the meantime, I was able to pick up a few in the Rockler Store and mounted the new fence easily. Although the one page of instructions are minimal, I found them precise and to the point.No need for a manual with pictures or 100 plus pages. I experienced no problems setting up and using the fence with the included ALEPSH-5 Adaptor Plate, required for my 9 X 13" router insert.I replaced the standard wing nuts with star knobs and zeroing the precision controls was a breeze. I did not experience any flexing using the standard auxillary fences, however I do plan to replace the faces with 3/4" molecular slick plastic material to further reduce friction.The vacuum port accepted the 2-1/2" hose from my Shopsmith Dust Collector without adapters and coupled with the vacuum port on the router itself, my work was almost dust free (which pleases the miss'es). I'm so thoroughly pleased with this Freud system and I highly recommend it to anyone requiring a precision fence at a bargain price to boot!

Freud can learn a thing or two from Ryobi
I purchased the table, stand, and router as a package. My only complaint is with Freud's assembly and router instructions.The router manual is minimal.I have extra bolts and lockwashers and no idea where they go. The chip deflection chute took me 20 minutes to install. There's no room available to fit the tiny screw. The height adjustment "racks" to one side and is very stiff.When I lifted the rubber boots to inspect the rods I found many metal shavings/turnings left over from the machining process. A nice Router and table package but I like my less expensive 2HP Ryboi, with it's easy to read manual, more.

Awesome Value!!
This thing is built like a freight train and is incredibly accurate and repeatable. As mentioned in the previous review, it now includes adapters for use with wide insert plates. The first thing to do after mounting it is replace the MDF fence faces with hardwood ones and make several pairs so you can make them zero clearance. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Routers    2. Tables    3. (Routertables)   

Features

• Wooden storage box
• Ideal for 1/4- to 3/4-inch plywood
• Cuts composition materials, plywood, and hard and softwoods
• Can be used on hand-held and table-mounted portable routers
• 1/4-inch shank

Reviews (3)

Wonderful Fit
If your doing some plywood joinery, these bits won't let you down. Incredibly smooth cuts with no tearout. These frued bits just "sing" through the material. Definitely worth the money.

We all know that a 2x4 isn't really 2" x 4", and plywood is the same way. These bits are undersized to compensate for the sanding process of plywood. These bits will provide a great fit without any slop.
Don't use this set for making Dado's for MDF because 3/4" MDF is really 3/4", 1/2" is really 1/2" and so on.
I hope this helps

False Advertising
This "IS NOT" a 1/2" shank router bit set. Please correct the product description. It is a 1/4" shank set.

Stop making sloppy dados
Tired of your dados being too lose when using plywood?These bits assure tight fits for undersized plywood joints and always, the Freud products work great.You can't go wrong with these bits. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .25-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/4)    6. Router Bits   

Features

• 10 year warranty
• 3-1/2-inch raised panel bit
• Includes 99-515 & 99-260 rail and stile
• 1-1/8 stroke length
• 16.75 in and 6.5 lbs

Reviews (3)

Excellent even for a rookie
I bought this 3 piece set as my first set.It has worked great.It is easy to set.It cuts cleanly.I am very pleased. Make sure you have a router with a 1/2" collet and a router table.
If I had it to do over I would have spent the extra money for a set with the back cutter.
Excellent product.

This set with a 3 1/2" panel bit is great for kitchen cabs
The popular 5 piece set is what I initially bought. It includes the glue up joint bit, which is nice for gettting a lot of panels to line up properly while gluing. It also includes the door lock bit, which will turn your raised panel, into a drawer front by removing the material around the edge of the back of the door face.
I bought this set as well. Why? Because when making kitchen cabinets, the raised panel bit that they provide with the set is too small for a large cabinet. (Unless you prefer that look) So I bought this set, to pick up the 3 1/2" panel raising bit. That requires a large opening of at least 3 5/8" on the bottom of your router, and the opening on your router table as well. The Bosch 1619EVS is even larger than that. The Fein RT-1800 allows for the the use of a 3 1/2" bit, but the casting prevents you from plunging a bit that size. Not really recommended, because you might accidently adjust it into the base. Their are others also, but most fixed base 2 HP routers won't accept such a large bit. So measure first.
Overall this is a great set of bits. They do a great job, and last a long time. Highly recommended.

very nice and sharp set
I just purchased the 3 piece cab. bit set from freud and I am very excited.The set came within a few days of ordering- thanks Amazon.The bits are extremely sharp and the finish is excellent.The box that comes with the set is well constructed to keep the bits safe and free from dust, which is nice.The only concern that I initially had was whether or not the 3 1/2" bit would fit in my router base opening.I have a 7539 p.c. router and the opening is 3 1/2".I had to file the opening just a little to make the bit fit.I am sure that you will find this most acceptable. The cuts with the bits are very clean, just like the ads say, and there are no pieces of fuzz on the top of the profile on the end grain.This will save some valuable time. All in all, very good product and the price was extremely good.In fact, the cheapest I could find. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Router Bits   

Features

• Six bearings
• For various depths
• For flush trimming
• Combine with your bits

Reviews (9)

Obviously Improved And Now Flawless!!
I found this in a local store and was able to check it before ordering. The bearings are now all sized to fit the bit without the reducers and associated parts mentioned by earlier reviewers so it is definitely improved. The package has locations to hold each bearing when not in use and the cut is excellent. I have now made hundreds of cuts at various depths and it still cuts beautifully.

I think it has improved!
I read all the review in Amazon.com about this bit and hesitated to order it. I've had good luck with all the Freud blades in the past so I gave it a try despite all the bad reviews. I put the bit to test as soon as it arrived. Everything fit perfectly. Cut was very good and it is all made in Italy. There is nothing written on the bearing as one reader mentioned that it was made in China. I think may be because of the bad reviews Freud might have made improvement. One thing I still don't know it how long it will last. But looking at fit and finish it looks like a good product.

Wrong parts included - Warning: you could be next!
I wish I had read the reviews first, then I would have known to check for parts that don't fit.But I've had good luck in the past with Freud bits and thought I was getting a quality product.I discovered tonight (like many others) that the 5/16 reducers don't fit the 7/8 bearing.

Not only do they lack quality control at the plant, but how many of these are still sitting on shelves waiting to suprise the next unfortunate buyer?Ever heard of a recall or Service Bulletin?How did I happen upon one 2 years and 8 months after they knew about the problem?(See other reviews.) Or was this the fault of the retailer or distributor?

The irony of it all is I happened to "luck-up" and find it in-stock at the local lumber yard, thus avoiding the added delay and expense of ordering on-line.This particular lumber yard is14.5 miles up the road from Freud's USA Corporate office in High Point NC.I'm considering driving the extra distance and returning it directly to the manufacturer in person in addition to writing a letter. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .50-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/2)    6. Router Bits   

Features

• Wooden storage box
• 1/2-inch shank
• 3/8-inch bearing included in this set will convert all five bits to beading bits
• Can be used on hand-held and table-mounted routers
• Cut through a variety of materials including composition, plywood, hardwood, and softwood

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Router Bits   

Features

• Wood case
• Five piece cabinet door set
• 1/2-inch shank
• Use with table mounted router
• Includes 99-513 panel bit

Reviews (2)

Professional results from your home shop
Whether you are making one or twenty cabinet doors, these bits from Freud will give you the results you are looking for. Red and white oak is no match for the sharpness of these bits. My one and a half horsepower shaper is enough power to turn the raised panel bit through oak with minimal drag. More power is better but less will do. The design of the bits prevents you from taking too much bite causing kickback and dangerous flying objects. The included instruction booklet provides step-by-step detailed instructions on constructing raised panel doors. I found this very helpful. The finished edges require no sanding and the fit, if time is taken for proper set up, is unmatched by competitors sets. I am currently replacing my entire bit collection with Freud products. Two words "they work".

Freud 94-100-513 5-Piece Cabinet Door Set
This cabinet door set does an outstanding job of producing a smooth finish surface.Setups are easily accomplished and the finished styles and rails match perfectly.The panel bit produces a profile that requires no finishsanding. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Router Bits   

Features

• Limited Lifetime Warranty
• Thick micrograin carbide tips
• Kickback reducing design
• Individually computer balanced
• Precision ground for the smoothest cuts

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .25-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/4)    6. Router Bits   

Features

• Multi-rabbet bits
• 1/4-inch shank
• Bearing sizes= 3/8,1/2, 5/8, 3/4, 7/8, 1-1/8, and 1-3/8-inch

Reviews (9)

Obviously Improved And Now Flawless!!
I found this in a local store and was able to check it before ordering. The bearings are now all sized to fit the bit without the reducers and associated parts mentioned by earlier reviewers so it is definitely improved. The package has locations to hold each bearing when not in use and the cut is excellent. I have now made hundreds of cuts at various depths and it still cuts beautifully.

I think it has improved!
I read all the review in Amazon.com about this bit and hesitated to order it. I've had good luck with all the Freud blades in the past so I gave it a try despite all the bad reviews. I put the bit to test as soon as it arrived. Everything fit perfectly. Cut was very good and it is all made in Italy. There is nothing written on the bearing as one reader mentioned that it was made in China. I think may be because of the bad reviews Freud might have made improvement. One thing I still don't know it how long it will last. But looking at fit and finish it looks like a good product.

Wrong parts included - Warning: you could be next!
I wish I had read the reviews first, then I would have known to check for parts that don't fit.But I've had good luck in the past with Freud bits and thought I was getting a quality product.I discovered tonight (like many others) that the 5/16 reducers don't fit the 7/8 bearing.

Not only do they lack quality control at the plant, but how many of these are still sitting on shelves waiting to suprise the next unfortunate buyer?Ever heard of a recall or Service Bulletin?How did I happen upon one 2 years and 8 months after they knew about the problem?(See other reviews.) Or was this the fault of the retailer or distributor?

The irony of it all is I happened to "luck-up" and find it in-stock at the local lumber yard, thus avoiding the added delay and expense of ordering on-line.This particular lumber yard is14.5 miles up the road from Freud's USA Corporate office in High Point NC.I'm considering driving the extra distance and returning it directly to the manufacturer in person in addition to writing a letter. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .25-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/4)    6. Router Bits   

Editorial Review

Freud designed this tool as a high-powered plunge router with all the important basic features but without the bells and whistles found on more expensive competitors' tools. The result is a solid workhorse of a router at a reasonable price. And don't think it lacks anything woodworkers need to handle a wide variety of tasks. In fact, this tool includes a height-adjustment knob for table mounting and a dust collection port, both of which are considered extras on other routers.

The variable-speed dial on this router is easy to access and offers precise microadjustments, and onboard electronics keep motor speed constant. This model also offers the soft-start electronics we've come to expect on high-end power tools: power comes on smooth and quickly ramps to full speed. As a result, the big 3-1/4-horsepower motor doesn't torque the tool from the user's grip. Of course, aside from its use as a handheld router, this tool is designed to be mounted to a router table; it is powerful enough that we feel comfortable using it for many tasks we might normally assign to the spindle shaper. We find Freud's router particularly user-friendly when we're making adjustments: the sliding shaft lock, plunge lock, and quick-release depth stop are all conveniently located and easy to operate. Overall, this is a very good tool at a very good price. --Tim Block ... Read more

Features

• One-year warranty
• 3-1/4 hp, 15 amp motor
• Soft start, variable speed: 8,000 to 22,000 rpm
• 1/2-inch collet and 1/4-inch sleeve
• Microadjustment depth control

Reviews (60)

inexpensive but problematic
The main problem I found with the router was the poorly fitting 1/2 inch and 1/4 inch collet. Both were too large to fit standard router bits when the compression nut was in place. Ihad grind the hardened steel collets on a lathe ( to avoid unbalancing the rapidly turning bits) to fit. The second problem I found was that the system that controls the depth of bits is sprung to high. This makes it difficult to extend the bits without using excessive force to compress the springs. The adjustment knob, usefull for fine adjustments, also requires excessive force to turn when the springs are near full compression. Because the knob compresses only one side it will jam pulling the router out of alignment. This makes it difficult to use in a table.The final major complaint is the collet doesnot extend far enough for some short router bits. In summary inexpesive but beware of its limitations.

A Huge Disappointment
I put a tongue and groove edge on 1500 linear feet of eastern red cedar to make random width panel boards for my sunroom walls and trim.I purchased the Freud router since I presumed it to be heavy duty. (The work took place over several months time.I rarely ran the router more than a couple of hours a weekend.) The cedar, being very soft, surrendered to the router bits like butter to a hot knife.However, the Freud sputtered and died after about 1100 feet. It would either not hold speed against a load, or not run at all.I finished the job with a $39 ebay chinese import.I originally avoided the cheapie in favor of getting one that I thought would last, and I guess any thing can happen, but at least for me this unit did not make the grade.I like the layout and the controls, and the depth gauge, which is why I gave it a couple of stars.But durable?Nah!I'll go for another brand if I get serious again.

Great Machine
I have waited over a year to offer my opinion on this router so as to be as objective as possible.For backgound, I am a serious DIY.I have this machine mounted in my router table and love it.I opted for the Freud based on price and previous reviews I read.I have not been disappointed.I have cut raised panels with ease and would recommend this unit to anyone who has a need for this much power.Possibly the 3-1/4hp Porter Cable is better for a production shop, but for the money this router will serve the average guy very well for many years. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Plunge Routers   

Features

• Wooden carrying case
• 3-1/2-inch raised panel bit
• Includes 99-518 & 99-260 rail and stile
• 1/2-inch shank, individually balanced
• Use with table mounted router, 3/4-inch stock

Reviews (4)

Three and one half inch panel bits are the most popular
The 5 piece set is what I initially bought. It includes the glue up joint bit, which is nice for gettting a lot of panels to line up properly while gluing. It also includes the door lock bit, which will turn your raised panel, into a drawer front by removing the material around the edge of the back of the door face.
I bought this set as well. Why? Because when making kitchen cabinets, the raised panel bit that they provide with the 5 piece set is too small for a large cabinet. (Unless you prefer that look) So I bought this set, to pick up the 3 1/2" panel raising bit. That requires a large opening of at least 3 5/8" on the bottom of your router, and the opening on your router table as well. The Bosch 1619EVS is even larger than that. The Fein RT-1800 allows for the the use of a 3 1/2" bit, but the casting prevents you from plunging a bit that size. Not really recommended, because you might accidently adjust it into the base. Their are others also, but most fixed base 2 HP routers won't accept such a large bit. So measure first.
Overall this is a great set of bits. They do a great job, and last a long time. Highly recommended.

99-218 Problem?
For those reading the review of the 99-218 panel raiser, try using a 1/8" backcut on your panel and your alignment problems dissapear.

Nice performance but.....
I found the Freud 97-102 an excellent product. However,I found to get the maximum profile(1-1/4")and keep the panel & rails flush in the front,I had to use 3/4" stock for the panel, and at least 13/16" stock for the rails/stiles.(The panel cutter has a 5/8" depth of cut) A better choise is the Freud 97-100 set. It has the same rail/stile bits, but the panel bit included can take as little as 3/8" depth of cut and still get the full profile! This means you can use thinner stock if needed,and end up with a much better proportioned door. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Router Bits   

Features

• Can be used with other routers which accept universal template guides
• 7 templates
• 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 5/8, 51/64, and 3/4-inch
• Machined from special brass alloy
• Guides and adapter are machined out of special brass alloy

Reviews (6)

Poor Quality for Freud
I bought my set a few years ago contempalting doing Dovetail joints.I just pulled it out to use with my PorterCable 1501 router.It would not fit my base plate.Fortunately I found my old porter-cable router that has a base fixed in one place excepted the guides. I tried the 3/8" guide and found it to beoff-center or out of round. It would not fit in the router base.Probably had it to long to get it exchanged. I've bought a lot of other Freud products and have been pleased, but this one surprized me.

There's Gold in them hills!
This set is great. Costs the same as Porter Cable, is as good as Porter Cable, if not better and you get the GOLD for free!

How can you go wrong?

Nice Set
Recieved my guide kit in good order. All the pieces and parts were included in the case. I have only used it once on a hope chest I constructed. Everything seems to fit and work ok. Havent had a lot of experience with this type of routing so I don't have a lot to compare to. The machining of the parts seems fine and what little I have done went very well. So far I am very satisfied with Freud products.
UPDATE..Jan. 05...Ruined the 1/4 inch guide, when the stop collar vibrated loose, allowing the guide to move. Also messed up the bit. I have used this guide set a couple of times and haven't had this problem before. I found a new guide and stop collar at my local woodworker store, not very expensive. I have always hand tightend my stop collar but will use a pair of pliers from now on. Shouldn't have to but can't risk this happening again. Very scary and could have been very hazardous.
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Routers    2. Templates   

Features

• Impervious to chemical attack
• 1 11/16 inch diameter, ogee style, 1/2 inch shank
• Ground carbide with titanium for long life
• Anti-kickback
• Computer balanced for vibration free operation speeds over 18,000 rpm

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .50-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/2)   

Features

• Kickback reducing design
• Individually computer balanced
• Includes: rail and stile, reversible glue joint, drawer lock joint and raised panel bits and wooden storage box
• Covered by Freud's limited lifetime warranty

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .50-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/2)    6. Router Bits   

Features

• Trimmer base and angle base included
• Plunge base for precision laminate fabrication
• 7.5-amp motor for fast, smooth cutting
• 20,000 to 30,000 rpm for working with a variety of materials and designs
• 1/4-inch collet capacity for most common router bits

Reviews (7)

it'll do...
Lets start with the case; IT IS ABSOLUTE JUNK!!! I had read the reviews but figured everyone else was super sinical.Those socket sets that cost $2.99 come in a better case, PERIOD. But, i would not keep the case even if it were steel and here's why. In order to fit everything in the case you have to attach the trimmer to the plunge base.For those of you who use the plunge base primarily this probably be a huge problem.

I also own the porter cable trimmer and as far as I am concerned the to compare equally when attached to the basic trimmer base.This trimmer will do anything my porter cable trimmer will do. would I buy it again, yes.

MANUAL FOR ROUTER
I read the other reviews praising or kicking this product.I just got it today and have not used it yet.The instruction
manual is a joke!!! If I did not have a mechanical mind, I would
have returned it.There are no instructions to do anything on
this router.I was able to figure out what was needed to change bases etc.It looks like it will do the job I wanted if for, the
price was ok.The edge guide adjust plate did not fit but Ithink I can fix that. The overall package was not what I expected
from Freud.I wish it had come with a "Porter/Cable" guide adpter.

NOT DISSAPOINTED, BUT NOT IMPRESSED
I ordered this tool because I needed a smaller router to do trim and decorative work on box's and tables. The price and listed attachments were the big selling point, also the Freud name. I exclusively use their saw blades and router bits, and have never been dissapointed in their performance. The package arrived fairly quickly and the shipping box was in good shape, however when I opened the box, removed the bubble packing and lifted the plastic case out of the box (by the handle), the hinged side of the case failed and dumped all the contents on the floor. Luckily it landed on the carpet and I don't think anything was damaged, but it still was not a good beginning. I have to agree with the other folks reviewing this product, the manual is the pits. There is no parts list that I can find, so I'm not sure I recieved everything or not. I downloaded the picture from this web site and will compare it to what I recieved. The fit and finish of the tool and attachments seems adequate and does have more "metal" than most of the competition. The controls are fairly easy to reach and the handles on the plunge base are comfortable. It does take a little muscle power to "plunge" the router down, but I like the return tension. I have only "played" a little with the router (just recieved it yesterday), but I think it will do what I want it to. I like the soft start and the variable speed and the spindle lock. It will probably take some time and thought to figure out exactly how to use the attachments as once again the "manual" is dismal. The machine is a little larger than I imagined, but I do like the large base. All in all I am not dissapointed but I was hoping to be impressed and I am not. I'll keep this tool and I'm sure it will do the work that I want, but I did expect more from Freud. I rated it a 3 because of the "manual" and the case.
PS....It's now the end of November and I have had a chance to do some "serious" work with this router. I upgraded my rating to 4 stars because of the way this little router performs. I just finished doing some "raised panel" work on a walnut bookcase. Wasn't able to do it on the router table as the original design was changed (after assembly)by the "client" (granddaughter), so using a homemade jig and crossing my fingers I was able to do the panel work with this little router. It performed admirably and I was very pleased with the results. I was able to maintain control and it had no problem with the medium size panel bit.
Am starting to be impressed.
Update...April 2005...I've had this router a couple years now and it has done everything that I ever asked it to do. I keep meaning to buy another "out of the table" router to handle on the bench routing, but haven't found any jobs this little guy can't handle. For flush trimming it is the cat's meow, of course you would expect that, it is a trim router after all but it does the job so well and effortlessly that it puts a grin on your face. Cutting profiles, small dadoes, t-joints, plunge cuts for shelve hangers, are just some of the duties that this router has performed flawlessly over the last couple of years. I use it for freehand carving, initials mostly, on large chests and boxes, and with the speed dialed down it is extremely easy to control. Have become very impressed with this little router and highly recommend it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Laminate Trimmers   

Editorial Review

Are expensive router bits worth the cost? After testing Freud's 1/2-inch shank set, we think the answer is yes. The features found in these Freud bits--long-lasting micrograin carbide/titanium tips, tri-metal brazing, and an antikickback design--make them a better choice than less-expensive options. Each Freud bit is computer-balanced to run vibration- and chatter-free at speeds well in excess of the typical 22,000 rpm of most routers. These bits have a high shear angle that produces less tear-out and chatter marks, leaving a cross-grained cut that requires little or no sanding. Multiaxis grinding helps ensure the proper relief angle on cutting edges regardless of how the bit is oriented. The kit includes a variety of useful bits most frequently used by woodworkers and comes in a sturdy wooden case for maximum protection of the cutting edges. --Tim Block ... Read more

Features

• Six piece profile set
• 1/2-inch shank
• Carbide tipped
• Wood case

Reviews (1)

Freud 91-104 6-Piece Starter Set 1/2" Shank
THIS IS THE BESTBIT SETTHAT I HAVE EVER USED ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. Router Bits   

Features

• Kickback reducing design for safe bit use
• Bit design makes glass doors look as good from the back as the front
• Micro grain carbide for razor sharp cuts
• Non-stick Perma-SHIELD coating reduces gumming, rusting and corrosion
• Precision computer balanced bits for extreme accuracy

Reviews (1)

Frustration
Freud 99-280 Recoverable Bead Glass Door Bit Set, do a beautiful job once you have zeroed in on the right settings. However doing that is a VERYdifficult job, and is reallyfrustrating. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that Freud mysteriously provides no instructions , diagrams or even any recommendations for their use. I have tons of Freud blades and router bits, and my biggest complaint is they almost never have any instructions. The biggest problem with this bit set is when you remove the glass bead. If you are of a 32nd of an inch the tenons will be either to short or to long, and in the earlier case there is no way to correct it. I will still buy Freud products, but I wish they would spend a few bucks and create an instruction manual. Many of their competitors have already done so. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Routers    2. Router Bits   

Features

• Impervious to chemical attack
• 1/2-inch diameter, 1-1/2-inch height, 1/2-inch shank
• Ground carbide with titanium for long life
• Anti-kickback
• Computer balanced for vibration free operation speeds over 22,000 RPM

Reviews (2)

Its the real deal
As the previous reviewer said, this bit comes sharp and stays sharp.I have enjoyed super smooth cuts in flat sawn red oak, quarter sawn white oak, poplar, pine, and walnut.I can't say enough how good this bit is for flush trimming both free hand and in a table.

I highly recommend it!

Keeps going, and going, and going........
And still doesn't need sharpening!!I have used this bit a lot and it is still sharp and doesn't seem like it will ever die!!Fabulous!!5 Stars! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .50-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/2)   

Features

• Impervious to chemical attack
• 1/2-inch diameter, 14-degree angle, 1/2-inch shank
• Ground carbide with titanium for long life
• Anti-kickback
• Computer balanced for vibration free operation speeds over 22,000 RPM

Reviews (2)

This is a great bit
I used this bit in a 2.25hp router (and Porter-Cable guide bushing) to make some dovetails with a jig.Cuts in quartersawn white oak were super smooth, with hardly any tear-out.I also used this bit in a router table setup, again with a 2.25hp router, and the cuts were just as impressive.

Overall this is a very high quality bit at a very good price.I highly recommend it!

Freud dovetail bit, 1/2" shank
What can I say?? Fantastic bit, extremely sharp, cut through redquartersawn oak with no chip out at the ends - One of the nicest bits I'veused. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Freud    2. (Frued)    3. Routers    4. .50-inch Shank Bits    5. (1/2)