45 Routers
Description
This article is from the Woodworking FAQ Collection 4, by multiple authors.
45 Routers
From: willie@qiclab.UUCP (Bill McCall)
Date: 13 Jun 88 00:25:18 GMT
From my own experience of actually using lots of different routers
from many manufacturers, I liked the commercial models of all the
makers, from the standpoint of reliability.. However, some are much
easier to use, have better accessories, easier bit changing, etc.
My grand champion is the Porter-Cable "D" handle router (Speedmatic)
which has a 2 horsepower motor (or maybe its 1.5). It has a .5"
collet, which is a necessity for any machine, fairly good wrenches
for changing bits, has smaller collets available for using other
shank sizes, and is quite comfortable in continuous use, albeit a
bit heavy after an hour or so. It has fences available for ploughing
although the availability at your supplier may be sporatic.
They are also quite expensive, over $300, but last a LONG time, even
if you drop it. Brushes are also cheap and easy to replace. I wouldn't
get the model with the electronic speed control.
Milwaukee's are also good, but very heavy.
Skil, Black and Decker and Bosch (Stanley) are fine, but the D handle
makes controlling the machine a LOT easier.
Plunge routers. The big Stanley (3hp) is terrific, plenty of guts
for deep cutouts in doors, good slide, excellent handles (important
on a machine with the horsepower of a lawnmower), but an awkward
mechanism for tightening bits. Adequate, they don't come out, but
awkward. Makita is the only other one I've seen, and haven't used it
as the Stanley was there. Guys I worked with used it once and it
went back to the box. lWE had two of the Stanleys.
But on a budget, I have a Rockwell, .5" collet, the flat top model
with 1.5 hp., and a Stanley, 1 hp, with a 3/8" collet. The Rockwell
is a much better machine, although neither have given me any trouble
in ten years. Price about $100. Have used both as laminate trimmers
and in shaper table setups swinging 1.25" straight bits. For only
laminate trimming, get a laminate trimmer (Stanley-Bosch).
One note, if you buy a commercial router, you'll never wear it out
at home.
Continue to:
My Books
