Laminate trimmer question

[lcm1947]

Long story long I was given a Ridgid R2400 trimmer for Fathers day. It has long been the custom in this family that if one is given something that they don't like or just don't want that that person can take it back and choose something they'd rather have with absolutely no hurt feelings on the givers side. I know strange, but it works for us and we really like it that way. Anyway, so I have this brand new trimmer and while it's nice I have no idea if I will ever use it. I hate to keep it if I never use it or at least not $100.00's worth. So my question is to those that have one - what do you use it for and is it a worthwhile tool to have. Now please note that I have two PC routers already and plan on buying yet another one so I'll have one in table, one especially for dovetail jib and a hand head one both bases. I am an extremely frugal person and hate wasting money so to me unless I can really get my money's worth out of this trimmer I'd rather put out another $100.00's and get that third router I'm needing - Ok want. Oh, not to mention that my collection of bits is all 1/2" and I can't really see spending more money on a collection of 1/4" bits. That's hundreds of dollars when I could spent it on 1/2" bits to further my 1/2" bit assortment. I guess what I would really like to know is if I do keep it would I really need another full collection of the smaller bits? If not could you name some of the types I would need. Also, really how often do you need a little trimmer that a regular router couldn't handle, granted maybe not as easy. Thanks.

[just4funsies]

I have a HF trimmer that I got on sale for $19. I use good quality bits in it, and I am very satisfied using it for trimming laminate (imagine that). I have also used it for easing the occasional edge on something, as it is much less hassle than a full-sized router. I think whether or not it is to be considered "worthwhile" is going to depend on the individual. At $19, I'll take it, but at "hundreds", probably not.

[MilDoc]

I have a Bosch trimmer, and use it more than my 2 routers. Much easier to handle and guide for edge work. Since that's all I use it for I have only a few 1/4 " bits. But I wouldn't be without it! Light weight, easy to maneuver, gets edge work done fast!

But can't replace a good 1/2" router...

[kwgeorge]

I have a little Freud trim router and use it a lot. I use it to trim my veneer before I tape it, I used it recently to flush trim that Bloodwood on the apron of that table I just made and so many other things. For me on many things that I do I find the little trim router to be more controllable and faster to get up and going than reaching for one of the bigger routers.

Ken

[Popeye]

Since I bought the Ridgid last year it's been the only handheld router I use save for dovetails. Much easier to handle and control. Do what you think is best for you but if mine should expire I'll have another one in the shop within the week. Pat

[RHunter]

Laminate routers are great for dovetailing! The popular HF DT jig needs a 1/4" shank router to work. I have a PC 7310 and a Bosch Colt for just dovetailing, they both have enough power to use in DT jigs, and are easy to hold and control while DT'ing. Two trim routers are almost a necessity for using the 4215 Mini Template in the 4212 PC DT Jig.

I have not used one for edge shaping, I prefer something a bit larger for that- that's when I either grab my Ryobi 3 base, or fire up the M12V in the table.

And that Rigid R2400 of yours will take a PC Template Guide right out of the box too...

Oh yea, I also have a HF Trim router that I use only for trimming laminate- at $20 on sale, it is my disposable router...

My goodness, that makes 5 routers! I'm almost up to the number of my wife's sewing machines... I may have to do something about that!

[lcm1947]

Well now, that's interesting Douglas. The guide will fit this R2400? Hmmm, I was only going to get the third router for hand held work and since they are more expensive then this Ridgid I'll just use the Ridgid for the dovetail jig and I'll have my PC back with dual bases for the hand held stuff. Excellent! I should save about at least $50.00 that way. Thanks so much for that info. I really wanted to keep the little thing anyway so you just added the reason. Thanks to all for their help.

[Tequila]

I have the bosch colt trim router. I find that I'm using it more than my PC690 lately.

[Popeye]

I'm running out to check my PC bushings thanks for that bit of info. The bushing fit opens up some other interesting possibilities. Pat

[bmyers]

I bought an HF trimmer and liked it so much I bought a PC lam. trimmer (much nicer!). Go ahead and get some 1/4 inch bits from HF. They sell a pretty cheap set that does just fine.

Most recently, I used mine to even up a rough cut out for a room air conditioner in my "other shop". Easy enough with a flush cutting bit, and much easier to handle that the bigger routers I have while hold it to the siding of the shop.

The Ridgid is a decent one too. You'll love it. Great dads day gift!

Bill

[pmf2000]

Strangely enough, I discovered I could use my Rigid Trim Router for more than just trim. I just used it to edge a countertop I'm working on.

http://www.responsetolight.com

I can see using it quite ofter. It's just a heck of a lot easier to use than pulling out one of the monsters. Obviously it's up to you, but I'd give serious consideration to keeping it.

[lcm1947]

In thinking about using the little trimmer for the dovetail jig I wonder if it's not a little lite for dovetailing 3/4" plywood. Any thoughts or problems on this thick of ply? Does it have any problems cutting. I wouldn't want to wear it out using it for something it wasn't intended to handle.