Everyone was so helpful yesterday with my question about jig saws - thanks! I thought I'd ask again about help with routers. With Lowe's
20% off sale, I wonder if I might pick one up, but not really knowing all the ways I will (and can, honestly) use it, I wonder if I can get by for now with a moderately priced one. When I know better what I want and need, then I would go for the pricier models. If this is a good plan, what should I look for in a mid-level router? Thanks for any helpful feedback! Squanklin
I got over buying moderately priced 'starters' years ago when I realized I was building two collections of tools. Good stuff that I used daily because it was reliable and easy to use, and stuff that sat on the back of the shelf because I didn't want to screw with them any more. The bad part was I paid a fair amount of money for the lesser quality stuff.
If you are not sure what you are going to do with a router, it might be best to wait. Otherwise take a look at the middle-range Bosch, Porter Cable, Deltas, etc. From my experience of a year ago (helping my daughter select a router for her husband) low end routers can cause a world of frustration. I won't mention brand names but one of them starts with "R" - worst depth lock I had ever seen.
If you decide to buy, don't overlook the cost of accessories you will need right away, least of all bits. Contrary to above, this is an area where you do not need to start with top-of-line hardware. Bits are cheaper in sets and sets of 10 - 20 decent bits will run $60 - $100, on sale. These are not the worlds finest, but will provide a lot of use and cut variety when you get you machine.
Yes. I don't much like this idea, but it works for routers.
"Serious" routers are 1/2" collet and mainly used in tables. A "moderately priced" 1/4" router is very cheap these days, and it will still be useful for the lightweight non-table work even after/if you've bought a bigger one.
I have an article on my website regarding your first/next router purchase.
Home Depot is currently carrying the Porter-Cable 690 for $100. This is a straight handle, 1½ (or so) hp router that will acommodate 85% of your routing needs for a long, long time. Even after you eventually get a bigger router and a plunger (and you will) the 690 will still be the one you turn to for a number of jobs. It can be seen in professional shops all over the places. You will not wear it out.
Despite all the developments in router technology for the last 40 years, the self ejecting collet on the 690 is still the best (comes with both ¼" and ½"), And it already has the two wrench upgrade.
You may be able to get Lowes to price match, as the HD price is not a closeout. I bought two of them a month apart.
"Squanklin" wrote in news:1103290200.928896.305170 @z14g2000cwz.googlegroups.com:
Soft-start. If you're not used to using a router, the jerk when a router without soft-start spins up is very disconcerting (and the router's likely to go where you didn't intend it). This is the number one feature I think you should look for.
Beyond that, a plunge router is more versatile than a non-plunge one, but a non-plunge router can be easier to control...many people like to spend the extra for a dual-base model.
Whatever router bits you get, get in 1/2" shank sizes.
You might consider using your new router to build a router table, which is about the only useful accessory you need with a router. A mid-power router will work in the table for starters, if you find yourself using it a lot you can get a dedicated 3hp monster later.
I've never found a use for the assorted "accessories" that come with some routers...a straight plank clamped to the work as a fence works better than an "edge guide", etc.
Depends on your age and experience.. I but a lot of mid-range tools, and try to make my learning mistakes with them.. then, I give them to the kids as I replace them with the type and brand that I'll keep..
My first router was a great example of how to learn.. someone loaned my an old router that needed cleaning and brushes.. after learning on that, I really appreciated my new one.. I also had a pretty good idea of how to use it and what NOT to use it for..
I've read some good things about the new Hitachi m12vc, Fixed base, soft start, varible speed, 2 1/4 hp router. Amazon has it for $103. The local Lowe's has the PC 690 for $80 and the M12vc for $112.
At my local SAM's Clu, the Porter Cable 690 series combo kit (with fixed base & plunge base) is priced out at $165 (with case). Is that "high priced"? (To me, it's a steal of a deal!)
Also, those newish Craftsman Professional routers (with the red wooden handles) are rebranded Bosch routers. There are some danged good sales going on just about every week (and especially weekends) at Sears.
Either the PC at Sams's Club or the rebranded Bosch at Sears are great buys on top shelf machines.
If you are just starting out consider a combo kit such as Porter Cable
693LRPK. The kit contains a motor and two bases (one fixed and one plunge). You can buy a separate "D" handle for this model if you wish. This router (kit) is probably better for the occasional user and will run you about $200 retail. There are smaller (trim) routers and heavy-duty specialty routers you may want to add to your collection later. Save some money to buy a few Whiteside 1/2" shank router bits.
On 17 Dec 2004 05:30:01 -0800, "Squanklin" calmly ranted:
Try one of the super-cheap 2hp (right) imports found on Ebay. If nothing else, you can always get your $25 back by reselling it there or locally. ;)
Need a hammer drill? Medium-duty 1/2" (metric inches, evidently) variable speed (0-2800rpm) with masonry bits, metal bits, grinder bits, extra side handle, depth gauge, + a molded case sound good? Just $25 for the 21-piece set, delivered to your door, and I have 2 sets left. They're cheap little POSs but I was amazed at how well they work. The motor is tough: it supported my 200lbs for awhile when I drilled a drain hole in the sidewalk. Holes in cinder-block walls are quick with these things.
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Yes. Stay away from Ryobi or Crapsman. I'm on record as being one of those people who isn't part of the Crapsman Defamation Society, but Crapsman routahs, with their patented Depth Randomizer, and Carbide Ejection System are best left off your shopping list. I think Ryobi actually makes those.
I bought the lower priced router last spring. Sure, it's got me through everything I have done. But I am left in a situation where I cannot get accessories for it. If you buy a good brand you will find you will save money in the long run, cause you will be able to purchase accessories. Trust me, if you don't own a router table, you'll be looking at the accessories.
To put it simply, with a moderately priced PC or whatever brand router, you'll be farther ahead in the long run.
1/4" or 1/2" - easy go for a router that can handle 1/2" bits. There more stable. I'm stuck with 1/4" for the moment. "My second mistake".
As for bits. A TV host suggested to his viewers. Buy a basic set, then just replace the one's you use with higher quality bits. This way you have some flexibility with the basic set to get you started, and buy higher quality for the ones you really need and use.
From experience I've only used 3 or 4 bits on a regular basis. The straight cutting bits, a flush trim bit. A chamfering bit, and a rabetting bit. The fancy bits are nice, but you will end up using the ones above more often.
Router features you want;
A good brand name. Around 2HP and up. Soft Start feature. Variable Speed. Precision depth control.
1/4" and 1/2" collets I like the plunge base. Some method of dust control.
"Squanklin" wrote in news:1103290200.928896.305170 @z14g2000cwz.googlegroups.com:
Check out the Porter Cable 693PK (two base combo kit). Amazon.com has it now for $175 including shipping after discounts.
I agree with a couple of other posters ... don't buy Ryobi. And avoid the Hickory brand router bits at the Borg (DAMHIKT).
I currently have a Bosch 1617EVS combo ... but if I had to do it again I'd probably do a Porter Cable. I use mostly Amana and Whiteside bits (1/2" shank), with which I'm pleased.
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