I've been using table-mounted routers for some time now, and am considering investing in a router lift and the PC 7518 for heavy duty work. But, I think that for the considerable expense, I could just as well spring for a shaper. The 1-1/2 HP Grizzly is only $425, but then starting up a collection of cutters is a big outlay.
I'd like to stop being afraid when raising panels, and make my own moldings -- wide moldings on the router table suffer from too much vibration and chatter, and require alot of cleanup. I'm told that larger moldings on the shaper come out much cleaner, but I'd like to know what the rec thinks.
My questions are, does this seem worthwhile to those of you with shaper experience? Or is the router lift more practical? What spindle sizes are needed? The shapers in my price range have only 1/2 and 3/4 spindles. Is that enough, or will I regret not having a 1 or 1-1/4 inch?
Does anyone have the small Delta SH-100 that Lowes carries? It has only a 1/2 spindle, and I've read the owners manual from the Delta website, but it hasn't helped much. I think there are limitations on the diameter of cutters it will safely use, but they don't list any restrictions. This machine (and some similar from Grizzly) are cheaper alternatives, but if they aren't up to the job, I'd rather put the dough in something more substantial.
Thanks for any advice
tt