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My favorite tool in the woodshop is a router - it always has been. From the first 5/8 hp Black and Decker I ever laid my hands on I realized this is a tool with unmatched versatility. From inlays, to pattern routing, or just a simple edge profile - these tools can do it all.
So what is your favorite router and why? Also, what routers have you tried that you didn't like?
For me I like the Freud FT1700 fixed base in my router table. At 13 amps it has enough power to raise panels, and the above-the-table adjustments are quite convienent.
For my hand router I really like the Dewalt DW618 three base kit. It comes with a fixed base, plunge base, and a D handle base. The fixed base has a low squat stance and is very stable for edge profiling or dovetailing. The plunge base offers through-the-post dust collection and works as well as any dedicated plunge router I have used. The D handle puts a locking switch at your fingertips, and sets the handles in a wide "V" configuration which is very stable.
Routers that havn't worked for me are the Hitachi M12V 3.25 hp plunge. The 1/4" sleeve-type collet wouldn't hold a router bit. Even after replacing the collet, sleeve, and bit the position of the bit would frequently slip.
An old Craftsman fixed base 1hp router failed me when it would no longer hold the depth setting. But it was old and well-used.
I would be particularly interested in any feedback on the Porter Cable 890 with the vac-post handle. That looks like a nice setup as well.
So what is your favorite router and why? Also, what routers have you tried that you didn't like?
For me I like the Freud FT1700 fixed base in my router table. At 13 amps it has enough power to raise panels, and the above-the-table adjustments are quite convienent.
For my hand router I really like the Dewalt DW618 three base kit. It comes with a fixed base, plunge base, and a D handle base. The fixed base has a low squat stance and is very stable for edge profiling or dovetailing. The plunge base offers through-the-post dust collection and works as well as any dedicated plunge router I have used. The D handle puts a locking switch at your fingertips, and sets the handles in a wide "V" configuration which is very stable.
Routers that havn't worked for me are the Hitachi M12V 3.25 hp plunge. The 1/4" sleeve-type collet wouldn't hold a router bit. Even after replacing the collet, sleeve, and bit the position of the bit would frequently slip.
An old Craftsman fixed base 1hp router failed me when it would no longer hold the depth setting. But it was old and well-used.
I would be particularly interested in any feedback on the Porter Cable 890 with the vac-post handle. That looks like a nice setup as well.
