It seems that you're getting a lot of advice on this subject, so here's my
view:

1) No matter what bits you buy, if your router will accept 1/2" bits, then
buy that size. That thicker shank seems to vibrate less and generally
perform better.

2) Many have suggested brand named bits and if they're going to be used on
a daily basis, then one would agree. For example, if one is going to mill
solid surface countertop, the he/she would be justified in using Whiteside
or Amana bits. On the other hand, if one is going to use a roundover or
ogee bit on a small project or two made of pine, those 50-piece sets of
Chinese bits on Ebay are decent. The sets can probably be had for about
$1.25/bit and will work fine for smaller projects. If one should wear out a
particular bit from the cheap set, then replace it with a brand-name one.
Probably, this is a bit will often be used in the future. By contrast, why
pay $20.00/bit for an assortment of Whiteside bits, when one has no idea of
frequently of use? Without a particular project in mind, one can easily
spend twice the price of the router for an assortment of high-end router
bits.

3) Finally, if this is a learning experience, than why not use the cheaper
bits initially? You'd feel much better chipping the carbide or burning a
$1.25 bit, then doing the same on a new Whiteside bits.


"blueman" wrote in message
...
Now that I bought my first router (and a good quality one at that --
DEWALT DW618B3), I need to buy my first set of router bits.

At this stage, I am looking for a starter kit that has a broad
selection of styles and sizes of router bits so that I can start
learning and experimenting.

I am looking for good *value* in a broad selection kit. Quality is
important to some degree, but my budget is not unlimited and I am
planning on using this to learn. If/when I get better, I will know
what bits I value most and I can invest more in getting those in
higher quality.

I have seen the "Hickory Woodworking RBK1031 24-Piece Carbide Master
Router Bit Set, 1/2" Shank" priced at about $60. Is that a good match?

Any other recommendations?

Thanks