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Tools & Materials

Hybrid-Powered Router

Metabo HPT's dual-powered plunge router offers the option to plug in an otherwise-battery-operated tool for production work.

By Josh Risberg Issue 325 - August/September 2024
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Photo courtesy of the manufacturer.

My old, corded job-site router finally bit the dust a little while back. Typically, when one of my old corded tools dies, it gets replaced with a battery-operated model. However, in this case I actually did consider buying another corded model because I don’t use a router every day like I do saws, drills, and drivers, and when I do use one, it’s often for repetitive production work. So, when I saw that Metabo HPT had a plunge router that would run on either AC or DC, I thought I would give it a try.

For those about to rout. We salute you, Metabo HPT, for offering the option to plug in otherwise-battery-operated tools for production work. Photo courtesy of the manufacturer.

So far, I’ve used this tool to make custom molding pieces, route nose edging on stair treads, and cut out the sheathing from a bunch of window rough openings. I have found that the router feels comfortable in my hands, and has a nice bright LED light and an effective dust-collection port. The variable-speed motor operates between 11,000 and 25,000 rpms, and the motor brake works great. The 2-1/4-hp Metabo HPT plunge router kit (M3612DAM) costs $420 and comes with a 2.5-Ah battery, charger, 1/4-in. and 1/2-in. collets, a wrench, a template guide set, a straight guide, and a dust collector set, but does not include the ET36A AC adapter, which costs $120. In addition to delivering all-day power to this router, the adapter will also power all the other Metabo HPT 36v tools.

— Josh Risberg, a ­contractor in ­Rosemount, Minn.

From Fine Homebuilding #325

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This post contains affiliate links, which means Fine Homebuilding may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Milwaukee 18v Cordless Reciprocating Saw (2720)

This is a great quick-cutting saw with a brushless motor, an LED light, and a handy folding rafter hook.
Buy at Amazon

Metabo HPT Impact Driver (WH18DBDL2)

This impact driver is a small, light, and powerful tool featuring three hammers and anvils instead of the usual two.
Buy at Amazon

Milwaukee Cordless Tablesaw (2736)

This tool is compact and portable, features a riving knife lock/release, and boasts a lightweight design.
Buy at Amazon

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