I spent 26 years woodworking, mostly as a hobby. Been a lot of years since then!
As far as "tools" go, the China stuff back then was simply horrible! Nowdays, China tools are about all you can find unless you buy used. It would help to know what tools you are looking for; floor (stationary) tools, benchtop, handheld, cordless, or non-powered.
With router bits, you're not going to beat names like Freud. However, I often ordered from MLCS. They were good quality at an affordable price. Another trusted name is Dewalt. Can't stand Sears or anything with "Master" in the name! But again, I'm a couple decades out of practice.
For just starting out, you might want to look into the Home Depot tools. Dad had bought a tablesaw that was about $400-500 about 10 years ago. I was surprised with the overall quality. When it comes to tablesaws, I highly recommend getting the book, "The Tablesaw Handbook". It will show you not only how to safely use the saw, but also how to care for it. Steel tops need care to prevent rust, but many normal products can harm your wood or many finishes that might be put on later.
Portable planers have come a long way. Still, I don't think there's a planer that exists that can totally eliminate snipe in every wood and grain pattern. For a small hobby planer, look at Dewalt. For a larger machine, Grizzly is good, but avoid the cheaper Chinese models.
Router -- too many good ones these days. Don't skimp on price and you'll be fine. Research the different types, as most serious woodworkers actually have multiple routers.
I bought a benchtop drill press a couple years back that I've been quite happy with:
There are better models, but I like this size now (used to have a floor model) and I like the speed control. Again, protect surface from rust, but keep in mind that many protectants can harm the finish of your piece.
A jointer is a good tool as well. This is where you really have to look for the best quality vs. price. There are even better models that do not perform as well as many lesser models, but also too many cheap models to stay away from.
If looking for hand tools, Rockler is a good place. another is Garrett Wade. GW is a bit on fancy, more heirloom-quality tools, but can't beat the accuracy and beauty. When looking for straight rules (adjustable square, for example), look for one that has markings in the metal rather than just painted on the surface.
A nice calipers will also come in handy. Here you can choose from vernier (WAY old school), dial (my preference), and digital.
What kind of woodworking are you looking to get into? If wood carving, I just wasted a post. *lol* But, where do you plan to get your wood? Box stores are VERY expensive! Best bet would be to look for a local rough-cut supplier, or maybe look for scraps/damages wood flooring, etc. Also keep in mind, wood is like a sponge. Just because it was kiln-dried at one time doesn't mean it remains that way. It will re-absorb moisture even from the air. One other possibility would be to look into making a solar wood kiln and buying air-dried lumber. Yes, have to wait a while to use it, but then you KNOW the quality of your wood.
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