Hitachi M12V2 3.25HP Plunge Router $159.99 + free shipping - Amazon

[GaryA]

http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-M12V2-...7320053&sr=1-1

A couple of things to keep in mind for those that aren't aware of the deal with the M12V2 (learned from those wiser than I), as I ordered this around the same price a few months ago

1. It's not the perfect table router: dont expect to easily be able to get to everything above table for bit changes...you'll have to reach under to engage the shaft lock button. Also, because of the plunge base, you can't get the full height and I've run into a couple of bits that I can't get the the proper cutting height, and I wont use an extender - the only reason I'm not happy with it
2. Not a huge deal, but mine as well as others a few months ago, had some very minor cosmetic scratches...almost appeared to have been a return or refurbed (although, not a speck of dust, any sign that it was ever powered on, and ran perfect)
3. Aside from that, this thing runs SMOOTH and power to spare!

This is a great deal...

[jackellis]

I have the older version in my BT and compared with the Ryobi and Craftsman routers I started with, this one is a dream. I also have a Bosch 1617 and it's also quite nice.

[ari_c]

Price Now down to $151.99

I've been on the fence for a while and am finally going to take the plunge (no pun intended). Since I have only one router it's time to add a second to my collection as I'm tired of taking it out of my BT every time I need to use it by hand.

Thanks for the heads up, I had just checked the other day and it was at $200+

[ari_c]

Even lower now --> $144.39

I just called and had the difference refunded.

[Stormbringer]

A couple of things to keep in mind for those that aren't aware of the deal with the M12V2 (learned from those wiser than I), as I ordered this around the same price a few months ago

1. It's not the perfect table router: dont expect to easily be able to get to everything above table for bit changes...you'll have to reach under to engage the shaft lock button.

Hi Gary,

How is your M12V2 mounted? To the underside of a table top or are you using a router plate? Any lift involved? I ask because, if it's similiar in design as the M12V, you should be able to lock the collet and change the bits from above if your plate opening is wide enough. See here for a thread I started awhile back comparing the Triton to the M12V.

Also, because of the plunge base, you can't get the full height and I've run into a couple of bits that I can't get the the proper cutting height, and I wont use an extender - the only reason I'm not happy with it

Really? I haven't heard that before. Did you cutoff the tabs to accomodate larger bits? Many tips and setup ideas over at Woodshop Demo's


This is a great deal...

This is pretty good deal. This was a great deal

Hope this helps,
Greg

[liftoff621@hotmail.com]

M12V2 Works For Me

I also bought the M12V2 during the last Amazon sale. This was followed by a Woodpecker Precision Router Lift and an Extreme Extension when they went on sale. (I'm going broke saving money!) I then built a new router table out of MDF, birch ply and laminate flooring. It hangs off the end of my 22124. The router is a horse. The PRL is first class. So far no vibration problems with the Extension. Pete

[GaryA]

Hope this helps,
Greg

Hi Greg - I do have it mounted in the Jet XACTA list (just a rebadged Jess-em Rout-R-Lift). The problem, as I see it, isnt that the opening isn't big enough, its that unlike many other larger routers, the motor can't be removed from the plunge base (if I'm wrong, please let me know!), therefore, not allowing the motor to come up throught the opening. Now, I did buy a Sommerfeld bent wrench and can in fact get to the collet (although I need to reach under the table to engage the lock button - unless I modified it like your article shows - though the V2 looks a little different) and change bits....but the height won't go up enough for certain bits without the use of an extender - so I really dont have great control over the full range of height. I thought it was the lift - but from what it looks like, and according to others, its primarily the router and its inability for the motor to be removed from the plunge base and fully extend upwards. I'm not sure what tabs you're referring to? (great article by the way - like the o-ring idea!)

edit: also - I did take the springs out as he mentions, but doesnt assist with the height.

[Coolmeadow Creations]

How many times do the prices keep dropping??? 137.17 at the moment!! Jim.

[ari_c]

How many times do the prices keep dropping??? 137.17 at the moment!! Jim.

I don't know but it is now $130.31!

[p8ntblr]

It went as low as $100 about a month ago. I had it my cart but decided I didn't want to collect routers

[ragswl4]

I have had this router for a few months and have not experienced any problems with any bits. Of course I have this router dedicated to making raised panels, stiles and rails so it has not been a problem. Its true you must reach under the table to lock the shaft but I have found this easy to do. I also purchased a bent wrench and can change bits from the top of the table. It plows through hardwood and never seems to slow down. Great router so far. Amazon for $130. I think I was the first to get the scratched version and after some b***hing I got a $50 credit, so it was truly a great deal.