The benefits of Makita’s new RP0900 will be transparent to anybody who commonly uses a plunge router. This tool has all the benefits of a plunge router, but in a much smaller and more maneuverable package. The “aha” moment for me was when I had to mortise a bunch of door strikes.

When I mortise a door jamb to receive a latch, I typically first drill a hole, then set my trim-router bit into the hole while carefully reaching for the on switch. Frankly, it’s not a task I have ever used a plunge router to accomplish, but the 1-1⁄4-hp RP0900 makes it easier and less risky to hold the tool up to a vertical door jamb and to plunge the cutter into the work.

The 1⁄4-in. collet uses a two-wrench system, which I prefer, and there’s no tedious spring-loaded lever to hold when making plunges. Although there is no fine depth adjustment, the scale on the tool works adequately, and there is a traditional three-level turret stop common to larger plunge routers. I also found the handles and trigger comfortable, but this is still a two-handed tool.

For all the praise, I have a few gripes. I think the plunge mechanism would benefit from stronger springs, and the plunge action was jerky, even after I cleaned and lubricated the tubes. Unless I balance the downward pressure evenly between both hands, the plunge mechanism hangs up. The lever that locks the tool after plunging also flopped around when not engaged.

I wish the tool came either with a template-friendly baseplate or an adapter to fit the included base, which has a large opening. Both are available as accessories, but I expect these common items to be included, especially with a $160 tool.

The bottom line: Is this a tool I think every woodworker or finish carpenter would want? No. But for someone looking for a compact, controllable tool to dedicate to certain tasks, it is worth a look.