Porter-Cable 694VK Router Kit $139

[LarryG]

Porter-Cable 694VK 1.75HP variable-speed two-base router kit, $199 with free shipping, less $30 mfrs mail-in rebate and less separate $30 amazon.com mail-in rebate, for a final price of $139.

The P-C rebate is good until 4/30/06 but the amazon.com one only goes thru 03/26/06, so the latter date is your purchase deadline.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...&s=hi&v=glance

[Bud]

Does anyone know if mounts directly into the 3100? I'm looking to purchase my first router and was hioping this would be the one.

[LCHIEN]

Does anyone know if mounts directly into the 3100? I'm looking to purchase my first router and was hioping this would be the one.

nah, only Ryobi routers and the Ryobi-made Craftsman routers fit the hole pattern. But there's been countless questions and posts about how easy it is to mount other routers.

Check the FAQ in the first topic under "Getting Started" it answers all those questions.

[DJB]

Does anyone have an opinion on the Porter-Cable 694VK router kit?

I'm on the fence about getting a router at all (not sure I'd use it much), but I'm considering buying this one now (if it really is a good router at a good price) rather than buying one later at a much higher price.

Thanks,
Dave

[LCHIEN]

Does anyone have an opinion on the Porter-Cable 694VK router kit?

I'm on the fence about getting a router at all (not sure I'd use it much), but I'm considering buying this one now (if it really is a good router at a good price) rather than buying one later at a much higher price.

Thanks,
Dave

Since Larry doesn't want to hear my opinion, again, I'll quote the first line of the first post under Amazon customer reviews:
THE basic router--an antiquated design, not yet obsolete / completely universal and solidly built, November 5, 2005

That sort of sums it up. There are other, more expensive routers with incremental improvements. This one definately has a long distinguished history and a lot of parts and accessories will fit it. I think if all you have to spend for a router is $140 then it will be a great buy for you.

[DJB]

Thank you for the info on the PC router. It sounds like a fine tool.

If I am not going to do a lot with a router, would it be reasonable to spend $60 at Home Depot for the Ryobi R162-1K 1-1/2 hp Fixed Router, or is it really a piece of junk?
- 1/4" collet
- Inexpensive 1/4" Holbren set of bits available
- Intention would be to mount it in the BT3100 Accessory table

My woodworking plans right now are for a few small items, plus maybe bookshelves and a basic table and bench.

I can move this discussion to the "Getting Started" or "Tool Talk" forum if that would be more appropriate.

Thanks again,
Dave

[ssmith1627]

I had the Ryobi router you're talking about. It did work ok for the short time that I had it but after reading a lot of posts here I decided I wanted something with a 1/2" collet instead. So I returned it to HD and bought the 694VK mentioned above.

Been very happy with the 694VK. And the Holbren 1/2" 35 piece bit set. I don't really love the plunge base on the 694VK but I've just started using it as well. The motion up and down seems to need some kind of lubrication to it -- it's not very smooth and takes a good bit of force so it's hard to make fine adjustments.

Steve

[Bud]

I've considered buying the Porter Cable that is on sale at Amazon. But I'm also condidering buying the Ryobi Plunge for $99 and the fixed Ryobi for $59.97 at HD

Here are the descriptions of each.

Ryobi

2 HP Plunge Router RE180DL
Variable Speed

Whether you're an expert woodworker or don't know a dovetail from a jig, this plunge router will pack enough power and ensure enough accuracy to guide you through your next project. Its Accu-Stop® micro-adjustable depth stop makes it easy to set and adjust for repetitive plunge cuts, and the plunge-lock lever ensures an even, consistent cut. Variable speed control gives you the versatility you need to complete a wide array of projects.

• Electronic speed control module senses the load applied to the motor and adjusts voltage to maintain desired rpm
• Ergonomically-designed handles provide comfort when operating from different angles and positions
• Soft start reduces wear and provides smoother use
• Chip shield protects you against flying debris
• Spindle lock for simple 1-wrench bit changes
• Includes 1/2 In. collet, 1/4 In. adapter and wrench

And

The
Ryobi

1 1/2 HP Fixed Router R162-K

Ensure the accuracy of future woodworking projects with this dependable fixed router. In addition to featuring a micro-adjustment ring with zero reset for accurate adjustment of cut depths, the router has a die-cast aluminum base for rock-solid stability. A cam-lever locks the motor unit in place to further improve the accuracy of your cuts.

• 1-1/2 hp motor delivers 25,000 rpm for ample speed and power for any project
• Depth adjustment ring enables adjustments in increments of 1/64 In. for accurate cutting
• Ergonomically-designed handles for comfortable use
• Chip shield protects you from flying dust and wood chips
• Removable sub-base gives you the flexibility to attach to a router table or use freehand
• Includes wrench and carrying bag

I'm considering getting both Ryobi's because I want to have the versatility of less set up time. I plan of setting the fixed into the 3100 and having the plunge availabe at my disposal. I also plan on building a router table to accept the pluge later on do I can run the 1/2" collets.

Bud

Any Thoughts?

[jziegler]

Thank you for the info on the PC router. It sounds like a fine tool.

If I am not going to do a lot with a router, would it be reasonable to spend $60 at Home Depot for the Ryobi R162-1K 1-1/2 hp Fixed Router, or is it really a piece of junk?
- 1/4" collet
- Inexpensive 1/4" Holbren set of bits available
- Intention would be to mount it in the BT3100 Accessory table

My woodworking plans right now are for a few small items, plus maybe bookshelves and a basic table and bench.

I can move this discussion to the "Getting Started" or "Tool Talk" forum if that would be more appropriate.

Thanks again,
Dave

You really should go with 1/2" shank bits for safety whenever you can. You may find the router to be very useful for those bookcases, it will let you make all sorts of edges, plus lets you cut rabbets and dados if you don't have a dado set for your saw. I think you would find that cheap of a router to be too limiting. I know I wish I had a 2 base set instead of the fixed bas only router that I have.

-Jim

[Anthony]

Does anyone have an opinion on the Porter-Cable 694VK router kit?

I'm on the fence about getting a router at all (not sure I'd use it much), but I'm considering buying this one now (if it really is a good router at a good price) rather than buying one later at a much higher price.

Thanks,
Dave

no..no..no...no...router???!!!!!!!!!