Router decision

[AndyC]

I have both the Dewalt DW618PK, and a new fixed base PC router (as well as a couple old Craftsman routers). I love the DeWalt router. Variable speed, single wrench bit change, clear base. The DeWalt gets high marks for good reason. It's a great router - comfortable, powerful and easy to manipulate. The fixed base/plunge kit is super. The Porter Cable is a nice router, but mine is fixed speed, and takes two wrenches to change bits. As someone else mentioned, it's just a bit of an older design.

I have a Porter Cable dovetail jig. When doing through dovetail cuts it's nice to have two routers so that you can leave the two different collets and bits in place (one for the tails and one for the pins). I also have a Kreg router table, and I leave one of the Craftsman routers in that table. You can never have enough routers! Get one of each!

[poolhound]

Either the Bosch 1617 or Dewalt 618 almost always get great reviews. Both are slightly over $200 but if you find a sale might get it for under $200.

I have both of these and they are great. I prefered the plunge base on the Bosch but I have the 3 base DW kit and the d-handle is great so the Bosch is now fixed in my table.

Either of these would be good bets.

[dewi1219]

If you're interested in the KM12VC and you don't mind refurbs, I just ordered one from reconditionedsales.com for $109 shipped. I felt like that is a steal. They also have M12VC recons for $59. So you could buy both and have two fixed bases, one plunge base, and two motors for a good bit under your $200 budget (this is what I plan to do )

[drumpriest]

I have a pc 890 and a bosch 1617, I've used the km12vc as well. I got rid of a few of my routers when I got the bosch, I like it that much more. The PC hangs in my router table, and only comes out for dovetail work, where 2 routers can make things faster.

[hollerstring]

Many thanks

I appreciate all the experienced advice. Looks like the only real difficulty is so many options. I had thought much about the DeWalt kits. In any case, many thanks again to all.

[pcombs]

There is a deal right now for the following - $99 plus $10 off

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00928084000P

[pacwind3]

I second that deal. I don't think you can beat it.

[jonmulzer]

I just bought that same combo, yet I am still inclined to recommend the Hitachi kit. It is just better quality. Not that the Craftsman kit is a POS, it isn't. I will say though that after playing with it for a little bit, it is nowhere near being worth the normal asking price of $220. If you could buy both, then I would say go for it, but if you are only going to get one kit then get a Hitachi. It is smoother, quieter, handles better and is an absolute steal at $130.

[dbhost]

I've taken the Hitachi kit I bought out, and gave it a test cut or two, only on the fixed base. Following the instruction sheet, the depth is very easy to set, the router is MUCH quieter than I would expect for any wood router of any type, and it was an honest joy to use. Nice and smooth, very little vibration or anything like that...