[rhadiem]

I'm doing some deep 3d CNC work with a ~ 3-3.5" piece of stock and go within 1/4" of the bottom for some final passes.

I'm currently using a 3" OAL bit from Precisebits with only 1/2 or so of the bit in the collet when cutting my prototype in foam, but want something longer for when I cut the thing out of hardwood.

I'd also like a thicker sized one also, since roughing at 1/4" on a big 3d project takes a very long time.

Any suggestions from you veterans out there?

[RandK]

American-carbide makes long and extra long. I haven't ordered from them in a while but their prices are very good and the bits were good.

[ger21]

You can have them made by anyone that makes bits. I've had custom length bits made by Vortex. Vortex Tool: Solid Carbide Router Bits and Compression Spirals for woodworking, plastics and non-ferrous industries.

[RandK]

I like Vortex bits but they are stupidly expensive on some things especially ball mills. Their 1/4" 4" long ball mill is $62. I know they have some wacko voodoo volume pricing if you buy multiples of a bit. American-carbide is $22. Is the Vortex 3x better ? How ? Only thing I know about A-C is that they delivered pretty quick, they didn't cost a lot, and the bits work fine.

[rhadiem]

Thanks so much! These are great, I appreciate it. I was worried I wasn't going to find anything that worked.