Router Reviews - Reviews of Routers
Router Recommendations

Routers for the Home Workshop

User Comments

Recommended

DW618K Features:

	2-1/4 HP (maximum motor HP), 12.0 Amp electronic variable speed motor provides the power to rout smoothly through the toughest hardwoods
	Electronic variable speed with full feedback control for constant speed under load from 8,000-24,000 rpm and soft start to reduce start-up torque for enhanced control
	Micro-fine depth adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64" increments and adjusts vertically for a constant switch/cordset location
	Adjustable, tool-free steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and solid-locking
	Quick release motor latches for fast and easy motor pack removal for bit and base changes
	Spindle lock to allow for one wrench bit changes
	Clear, LEXAN sub-base provides enhanced base durability, bit visibility, and accepts standard template guide bushings
	Rubber overmolded handles and low center of gravity design provide best-in-class comfort, balance, and control
	Heavy duty, precision machined, die-cast aluminum base and motor housing for durability and low tool weight
	Nickel plated motor housing for a smooth, long-lasting depth adjustment
	Right or left switch and cordset location provides the ability to have the switch in your right or left hand
	Flat top for easy bit and depth changes
	Self-releasing, long, eight slotted collets for better bit retention and eliminating frozen bits

The Freud FT2000E 3 1/4 Horsepower, 8000 - 22,000 RPM Variable Speed Plunge Router. It will do any type of routings from small to large mouldings. It is light enough to operate by hand or can be mounted in a table to do large routings or making mouldings. The speed range allows one to use a wide range of bit diameters and is essential to produce better craftsmanship, as some species of woods route cleaner and better at a different speed other than the one most single speed routers run at.

The MLCS 66 Piece Millennium Carbide Tipped Router Bit Set has practically any bit a woodworker will ever need and is a fantastic buy for the money.

The Bosch RA1200 Deluxe Router Table has many features including a large work surface 24" x 44" and folds for easy storage.

The Rousseau RM3509 Deluxe Router Base Plate with 2 insert rings is a great buy. It is very tough and wear resistant.

First off, the router is, in my opinion, the MOST useful tool a woodworker can have, and quite frankly, one is never enough!  However, if I had to choose only one, I would go with the Milwaukee 5616-20.  It has plenty of power to swing large bits with ease, variable speed to slow down the cut on easy burning woods, a built-in depth adjustment system for use when table mounted, is relatively easy to self-service, has a good comfortable hand grip, good depth adjustment system, and comes with ¼” and ½” collets and a sturdy case.

5616-20 Features:

For the guy that can afford a second router, I recommend a Porter Cable model 310 laminate trimmer.   It’s small and light, with a 4” base that gets into places larger routers can’t, and is perfect for small edging tasks like round-overs, flush trimming and pattern routing (after cutting to within 1/16” or so with a band, scroll, or jig saw).

...Porter Cable Routers and router table plus Amana and/or Whiteside bits are  reliable and long-lasting.

PC892 Features: