New router needed (ok desired)

[jeepman71]

Hi All,

I would like to add a router to my tool collection. I currently have the Freud 1701 which I like very well....As long as I don't use the plunge base. This one I will leave on the table. I also have a Black and Decker that is about 30 years old that I have a Milescraft setup on.

I would like a router with a nice smooth plunge base, a fixed base, variable speed, 1/4 and 1/2 inch collets. I will use it for all sorts of non table routing from bowls to 1/8 inch roundovers so I would guess around 2 HP might be needed. As economic as possible because I need money for wood to use it on.

What would you suggest and why.

Thanks
Jim

[Cochese]

From my personal experience, Craftsman makes some nice routers these days. I wish I could recommend to you the set I have, which is this one: http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...8084000P?mv=rr

Instead, I'll recommend the replacement, this one:http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...2&blockType=G2

You don't get the D-sub base, but it's still a great value. The D-sub for the 28084 would most likely fit, as I believe they just bumped the power for the 2011 model.

No experience with it, but I wouldn't hesitate to try the Bosch 1617EVSPK, as it comes highly recommended by all who use it.

[dbhost]

I have been extremely happy with my Hitachi KM12VC, so much so that I have 2 of them...

[Cubsfan]

I also have 2 of the hitachi's. My only complaint is that on the plunge base the plunge action is not really smooth. Requires a decent amount of pressure.

[tommyt654]

At last count I have 9 of them, Dewalt,PC,Craftsman. I like the PC routers the best and then followed by the Dewalt and Craftsman.

[pelligrini]

I've been really pleased with my Dewalt 618. I picked it up a few years ago as a 3 base kit. The motor usually resides in my router lift on my saw, but I've had no problems with using it in the plunge, fixed, or D handle base.

I like the soft start. I don't adjust the speed all that often though. It's a lot easier to handle then my old (cumbersome) craftsman fixed base router.

[dbhost]

Yes, pressure needed, but I always felt it was just, well.. Springy... At least mine, both of them, operate very smoothly. But no, you will NOT accidentally plunge these...

[cork58]

I would give up my shop before I gave up my Bosch 1617EVSPK! I have used it without one complaint. It sits in my Bosch RA 1131 table nicely as well. I use it allot out of the table and the quick change is very nice. A great router but a little pricey if I remember correctly. I also have 2 of the Bosch PR20EVS Colts. I use them for my mini dovetail projects. Can't give them the same high marks though. I haven't had the problems others have had but then again its only a 1 HP router!

[Knottscott]

On a budget, I'd check out the new Craftsman routers by Chervon. For more money, I've also been very happy with the Hitachi. For a bit more, I'd look into the Milwaukee 5615/5616, Bosch 1617, or DW621. The Milwaukee is built like a tank and has an excellent plunge...also accepts standard bushings. Pat Warner thinks very highly of the DW621 plunger. Be sure to pick what feels good in your hands.

[jdon]

+1 on Milwaukee 5615 (not variable speed, but works fine with HF router speed control)- great value, IMHO.

[Pappy]

I also have the Bosch 1617EVS and love it. Mine is the older one that is magnesium and it is sometimes hard to get out of the bases to change from fixed to plunge. Later versions were modified to solve that problem.

The best way is to get your hands on as many different display as possible. Check the fell, control locations, and plunge actions. Many good routers on the market and most everyone is partial to the ones they have. Go with what feels best in your hands.

[cabinetman]

The best way is to get your hands on as many different display as possible. Check the fell, control locations, and plunge actions. Many good routers on the market and most everyone is partial to the ones they have. Go with what feels best in your hands.

That's a good tip. Some routers have controls that are cumbersome, or hard to use. Accessing the collet nut, on and off switch, height adjustment, handles, all play a part in a comfortable tool to use.

.

[jeepman71]

There is a lot of good stuff here. Thanks everyone. I do agree the best method is to play as many as possible.

Jim

[jwd12]

I don't own one but if I were buying today, this is what I would get.
http://www.highlandwoodworking.com/t...ge-router.aspx

[JimD]

I have two PC690s with 4 bases (and a Bosch colt and an old Ryobi R-500 in my router table and two old junky ones (one a Craftsman)). The PC690 is the older PC model with a little less power than the latest PC or Bosch mid-size. I like my older model just fine. The plunge base works well. If you are trying to save money, you might want to look for this model. A rebuilt (or used) could be even more reasonably priced. Only thing I've had to do to mine is one switch replacement on the oldest one.

Jim