Porter Cable or Freud router?

[sparkeyjames]

I have pretty much narrowed the choice in a new router to either the
Freud Ft1700 or the Porter Cable 892. Just wondering of any of you have
any thoughts on either of these routers.

[jobole]

Can't comment on the Freud but am very pleased with the PC 890/892.
I permantly mounted an extra standard base on the accessory table of the bt-3100. It quickly can be dropped out for bit changes, the above the table bit change procedure was worthless for me. Another big advantage is the height you can raise the bits up through the table which is great if you want to add any kind of coping sleds, I'd say the collet pops up a good 1/2" above the surface.

[Knottscott]

I haven't used the PC but the FT1700 is my 5th and favorite router. I prefer for table use over my MW5625 most of the time. It's loaded with above table features that I really find convenient. It has an auto spindle lock when fully extended that allows one handed bit changes from above the table. It also has above table height adjust and above table height lock, and VS.

http://www99.epinions.com/Freud_2-1_...splay_~reviews

[tellittojake]

pc is the one

I would suggest the pc because if will be more useful in the future as your interest and use of the router grows. Most of the accessories on the market are based on pc specs and it is hard to buy attachments, accessories, jigs, etc. with the Frued products. I have found it frustrating to buy a tool and later find that I cant find the accessories I would like to expand my work and skills. Just a thought to consider, Im sure the Frued is a fine tool.

[footprintsinconc]

o i wish i knew of this site before i bought my ok ryobi router. i hate the height adjustment on it and definately need a collet extension. pc is the way to go.

[Black wallnut]

I would suggest the pc because if will be more useful in the future as your interest and use of the router grows. Most of the accessories on the market are based on pc specs and it is hard to buy attachments, accessories, jigs, etc. with the Frued products. I have found it frustrating to buy a tool and later find that I cant find the accessories I would like to expand my work and skills. Just a thought to consider, Im sure the Frued is a fine tool.

I must slightly disagree with the above. IMHO the only accessory that is router specific is an edge guide. Aftermarket bases are another but if a user wanted that option there are seveal switch base models on the market which somewhat IMHO makes that arguement moot. Sub-bases can be had that are universal or custom fit that accept PC style bushings. Dovetail jigs are not router specific. Many other jigs can be made by the router user and sized to fit whatever router they choose. There may be some things I'm missing but in my work I've found the above to be true. Many woodworkers end up owning several routers anyway.