Whiteside 6009: Dulling & Fit Problems — Review Why Avoid

Data basis: I analyzed dozens of recent buyer comments and demonstration videos collected from Dec 2023 to Jan 2026, with most feedback coming from written reviews and supported by video demonstrations.

Will this work with thinner or non-standard panels?

Compatibility warning: The bit set requires an additional #6008 set for undersized panels thinner than the listed 1/4".

Pattern signal: This hidden requirement is commonly reported by buyers who tried thinner panels.

Category contrast: Most mid-range sets accept small panel variance without buying extra parts, so this adds cost and setup time.

Do these bits dull quickly during normal cabinet work?

• Edge wear pattern: Dulling is one of the most common complaints and shows up after repeated door runs.
• When it happens: Dulling appears during repetitive routing such as making multiple shaker doors in one session.
• Worsening conditions: The problem gets worse with long sessions and when cutting abrasive plywood cores.
• Why it matters: Faster dulling causes more re-sharpening or replacement than buyers expect for this price point.

Is fit, runout, or wobble an issue with installation?

• Installation signs: Some buyers report noticeable runout on first use that needs collet re-checking.
• Frequency cue: This is a secondary but persistent complaint across written and video feedback.
• Usage anchor: Wobble shows up right after setup or when switching routers mid-job.
• Cause hint: Issues often tie to collet fit or improper shank seating, not just the bit itself.
• Impact: Runout leads to uneven profiles, requiring test cuts and extra calibration time.
• Fixability: Some buyers solved it with collet cleaning or a different router, but that adds steps.

Will the finish be clean or prone to tear-out and finish flaws?

• Finish sensitivity: Tear-out and rough edges are commonly reported when feed rates are not ideal.
• Early signs: Light chipping appears on first cuts if feed speed is slow or blunt blades are used.
• Frequency tier: This is a primary regret for finish-critical projects like painted shaker doors.
• When it worsens: Problems increase with cross-grain cuts and veneered panels.
• User attempts: Buyers tried slower passes, different feed speeds, and masking to reduce tear-out.
• Hidden requirement: Successful finish often needs precise router control and sometimes a starter bit or backer board.
• Category contrast: This set is less forgiving than many mid-range bits that produce acceptable finish with modest adjustments.

Illustrative excerpts (not direct quotes)

Excerpt: "Edges got dull after a few doors, needed sharpening sooner."

Pattern: Reflects a primary pattern about dulling frequency.

Excerpt: "Had to buy extra set for thin panels I normally use."

Pattern: Reflects a secondary pattern about hidden compatibility needs.

Excerpt: "Noticeable wobble until I cleaned the collet and re-seated the bit."

Pattern: Reflects a secondary pattern about fit and runout fixes.

Excerpt: "Finish showed chip-out on cross grain unless I used backing."

Pattern: Reflects a primary pattern about finish sensitivity.

Who should avoid this

• High-volume shops: Avoid if you need sustained durability without frequent re-sharpening or replacements.
• Finish-critical projects: Avoid if you require pristine paint-ready cabinet faces with minimal sanding.
• Mixed-thickness users: Avoid if you regularly route undersized panels and don't want to buy extra sets.

Who this is actually good for

• Occasional woodworkers: Good if you make a few doors and accept re-sharpening as part of maintenance.
• Experienced tuners: Suitable if you can adjust collets and feeds and tolerate setup work.
• Tight-budget hobbyists: Useful if you value the specific shaker profile and can manage extra steps.

Expectation vs reality

Expectation: Many buyers reasonably expect a mid-range router bit to give durable, consistent cuts across standard panel thicknesses.

Reality: This set shows faster dulling and needs extra parts or setup to match that baseline.

Safer alternatives

• Choose higher-tolerance bits: Look for bits advertised with panel-thickness tolerance to avoid buying extras.
• Prioritize edge hardness: Seek bits with notes on longer cutting life to reduce re-sharpening frequency.
• Check collet fit first: Buy from brands known for consistent shank sizing to avoid runout issues.
• Use backer boards: For finish-critical work use a backer or zero-clearance jig to prevent tear-out.

The bottom line

Main regret: The most common buyer trigger is rapid dulling combined with a hidden need for extra parts for thin panels.

Why it matters: These issues create more rework and cost than typical mid-range router bits, especially for finish-sensitive work.

Verdict: Avoid this set if you need durable, forgiving bits out of the box; consider it only if you accept extra setup and maintenance.