Let’s Talk About Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set
The Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set promises a comprehensive solution for edge profiling, all conveniently packaged in a wooden box. Grizzly Industrial is a well-known brand in the woodworking world, and this set of five 1/4″ shank bits aims to bring versatility and precision to any woodworker’s shop. The set includes a 1/2″ Flush Trim bit, a 3/8″ Roundover bit, a 5/32″ Roundover bit, a 45 Chamfer bit and a 3/8″ Rabbet bit.
I was looking for an affordable way to experiment with different edge profiles on some upcoming projects, primarily crafting a new tabletop for my workbench and building a small set of shelves. I wanted a single kit to handle a variety of tasks, from flush trimming veneer to creating decorative edges. A set like this seemed like the perfect starting point.
Upon unboxing, the wooden box feels solid and well-made. The bits themselves appear to be of decent quality, with sharp-looking cutting edges and a smooth finish. However, at this price point, I’m initially skeptical of the steel grade.
Compared to individual bits from premium brands like Whiteside or Freud, the Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set is significantly more affordable, but likely won’t offer the same lifespan or refined cut quality. I had also considered purchasing a similar set from Amazon, but ultimately decided to go with Grizzly Industrial due to their reputation in woodworking machinery and tools. This choice leaned more on brand trust than on any specific feature difference between them.
My first impression is cautiously optimistic. The set seems like a good value for the price, but I’m eager to see how it performs under real use. I am also concerned about whether the bits will hold their edge during prolonged use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set while building a small set of shelves for my garage. I used the flush trim bit to align the edges of the plywood shelves after gluing them together, followed by the roundover bit to soften the sharp edges. The task was completed using my router table.
The flush trim bit worked well initially but struggled with tear-out on a few particularly knotty sections of plywood. The roundover bit created a clean, consistent edge profile, but seemed to dull quicker than expected when working with hardwood edging strips. The vibration from the router was also much higher compared to when I use higher-quality bits.
It took a bit of fine-tuning to get the router speed and feed rate dialed in to minimize tear-out. I was initially frustrated with the amount of time spent adjusting, but once I found the sweet spot, the results were acceptable. The set seemed adequate, and this first project only had minor hiccups.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set has shown some signs of wear. The chamfer bit’s edge is already showing slight chipping, and the roundover bit requires more frequent sharpening to maintain a clean cut. All of the bits are cutting, but I am noticing burn marks when I don’t move the piece quickly enough.
Durability is definitely a concern. The cheaper steel is starting to show its limitations, especially when working with hardwoods like oak or maple. I’ve noticed a decrease in cut quality, with more frequent need for sanding to remove imperfections.
Cleaning the bits is relatively straightforward. I use a standard resin remover to keep them free of pitch and buildup, but I suspect I’ll need to invest in a diamond sharpening stone soon to maintain their cutting edges. Compared to my previous experiences with higher-end bits, the Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set requires more frequent maintenance and attention to detail to achieve satisfactory results.
Breaking Down the Features of Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set
Specifications
- 1/4″ Shank: The 1/4″ shank is a standard size, making these bits compatible with most routers, but it can be less stable than 1/2″ shanks, especially with larger bits. This smaller shank size might cause more vibration, and isn’t well suited for larger projects.
- 1/2″ Flush Trim Bit: Designed for trimming edges flush with a surface, ideal for template routing or veneer work. This is useful for a variety of projects where precision is key.
- 3/8″ Roundover Bit: Creates a rounded edge with a 3/8″ radius, softening edges and adding a decorative touch. Softening sharp edges is helpful to protect people and materials.
- 5/32″ Roman Ogee Bit: Produces a classic Roman Ogee decorative edge profile. The Roman Ogee is a nice touch for giving pieces an antique, professional look.
- 45 Chamfer Bit: Creates a 45-degree angled edge, ideal for beveling edges or creating decorative details. A chamfer can protect the edge and give it a professional look.
- 3/8″ Rabbet Bit: Cuts a rabbet (a recessed edge) for joining boards or fitting panels. Rabbets help strengthen joints and provide a stable fit.
These specifications define the versatility of the set. However, the quality of materials impacts the performance and longevity of each bit.
Performance & Functionality
The Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set performs adequately for basic edge profiling tasks on softer woods like pine or poplar. The bits are capable of producing the intended edge profiles, but they require careful setup and attention to feed rate to avoid tear-out and burning. The results may not meet the expectations of experienced woodworkers accustomed to higher-quality bits.
The strengths of this set lie in its affordability and versatility. The weaknesses are in its durability and the potential for tear-out on harder woods. The set meets the basic needs of a beginner or hobbyist, but it may not meet the demands of more advanced projects or professional use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. However, the materials used feel less robust compared to higher-end bits. The bits are relatively lightweight, which can reduce strain during use, but can also translate to less stability and increased vibration.
The set is user-friendly. There is no real learning curve beyond understanding basic routing techniques. The wooden box provides convenient storage, but it is not particularly durable.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the lower quality steel, the durability of the Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set is questionable. The bits will likely require frequent sharpening and may not last as long as higher-end alternatives. The maintenance is straightforward, requiring regular cleaning and occasional sharpening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set comes with five bits and a wooden storage box. There are no additional accessories included. Since the bits have a standard 1/4″ shank, they are compatible with most routers and router tables.
Pros and Cons of Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set
Pros
- Affordable Entry Point: This set offers a low-cost way to explore different edge profiles without a huge upfront investment.
- Versatile Selection: The five included bits cover a range of common edge forming tasks, making it useful for a variety of projects.
- Standard 1/4″ Shank: The bits are compatible with most routers, providing broad compatibility.
- Convenient Storage: The wooden box keeps the bits organized and protected.
Cons
- Questionable Durability: The cheaper steel may not hold an edge as long or withstand heavy use.
- Tear-Out Potential: The bits may be prone to tear-out on harder woods, requiring careful setup and technique.
- Smaller Shank: The smaller shank size can create vibration and instability.
Who Should Buy Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set?
The Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set is perfect for beginner woodworkers, hobbyists, or anyone looking for an affordable way to experiment with different edge profiles on a budget. It’s ideal for light-duty projects using softer woods.
This set is not for professional woodworkers or those who require high precision and durability. Someone who frequently works with hardwoods or needs bits that will hold up to heavy use should avoid this product.
A must-have accessory is a good quality sharpening stone to maintain the cutting edges. Also consider a router speed control to dial in the optimal speed for different woods.
Conclusion on Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set
The Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set is a budget-friendly option that provides decent performance for basic edge profiling tasks. The low price makes it accessible to beginners, but the questionable durability and potential for tear-out may disappoint more experienced woodworkers. The price is justified if you understand the limitations and are willing to accept a trade-off in quality for affordability.
I would recommend this set to someone just starting out or looking for a cheap way to experiment. But, I would also advise them to be prepared to upgrade to higher-quality bits as their skills and needs evolve. For the price, it’s an okay starter set, just don’t expect professional results without extra work. Consider giving the Grizzly Industrial Deluxe Edge Forming Set a try if you’re new to woodworking, but be ready to invest in better quality bits down the line.