Hi everyone,this is my first forum post. I’m looking to buy a new router for general use(it will probably never be used in a table). I don’t need anything fancy or too expensive,just looking for some feedback.I’ve used a bosch in the past,what do you like?
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Replies
Porter Cable 690 with fixed base. Some will prefer the D-handle, I have never tried one. The 690 is a classic, bullet-proof router. It will out last you.
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt
second on the 690. I've got 6 routers, and that's the one I grab for first.
I think it's now an 890, an updated version.
I also have the 690 and I like it. Makita claims to have the quietest router.
I recently bought a Dewalt laminate trimmer and will be using it for simple roundovers and hinge mortises.
Approx price?
http://tinyurl.com/c9wfv
Jon Blakemore RappahannockINC.com Fredericksburg, VA
I have access to 10 in the trailer and I love the Dewalt 621, small, 2hp, can plunge it with one hand it is so smooth.
What does this situation in my life ask of me?
I don't use a router every day, but I've got about four of them. My favorite is the little Milwaukee 1 3/4 HP Body Grip. Feels good in the hand and has plenty of power for most tasks. I like it better than my PC 690 because I think it has better ergonomics, is easier to adjust, and doesn't jerk as much on start-up.
Been eyeballing one of those little Bosch "Colt" routers for awhile now too.
690
Thanks for the feedback on the router guys,it will be useful in my desision.
690 with a D-handle is my favorite to have available for most things. The D-handle has a slightly longer cord and while changing bits unpluging the 12" shorty cord from the base is much quicker than chasing the end of the main cord. The trigger switch also makes starting and finishing cuts more convient since you simply pull the trigger or let off.
I keep this router in a zippered tool bag with wrenches; the basic PC edge guide; large, medium and small hole base plates; and a screwdriver. It's very handy and handles the majority of small projects that come up during the day. If we're working on a project with more production-type tasks, there are a few other identical routers in the tool chest that can be tooled up for repetitive tasks.
You'll find that any of the major brand routers work well and will last a long time. Perhaps the hardest thing to do is switch between routers with differing "feel". At work we rarely share routers since it's often too easy to screw up an edge with unfamiliar equipment.
Good luck,
Don
Another PC 690 fixed base fan.
Jon Blakemore
RappahannockINC.com Fredericksburg, VA
You might notice that one of the common themes here is the PC router with a fixed base. You said you wwanted something basic. If you wanted a plunge base, then the PC 690 would not be the first choice, cuz the plunge mechanism is not the best. But for a basic, dependable router, the 690 leads the pack.
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt
FF,
I just recently bought a Milwaukee 3.5 HP (15amp) fixed base router. It's a little pricy, but man, compared to the three others I have, I swear it has to be the best router on the planet. Model 5625-20
View Image
http://www.milwaukeeconnect.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=27&catalogId=40027&langId=-1&productId=284400&mainHeader=Tools&categoryId=189343&mainCategoryId=362&parentProd=281166
WSJ
How about the bosch colt. Just got one for xmas.
Dont know much about it yet.. but looks handy enough to use more often.
Otherwise... love the PC 694 with both bases.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ANT91S/qid=1136388521/sr=1-11/ref=sr_1_11/104-2295191-7683959?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&n=228013
I piced up tthe colt one day ... interesting tool. Looks bigger than a laminate trimmer, but smaller than a 690. I wonder what the intended market is?
The advantage to the 690 is that, even though it's only 1-1/2 hp, it has a lot of power and can be pushed hard.
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt
Check in most solid surface shops (big router users)....it'll be Porter-Cable or Bosch. At least I've never seen anything else. I've tried others, but that's all I buy.
I'd go with a 690 kit....you can get the motor with both a fixed base and a plunge base for not much more than the basic fixed base version...just swap the motor into the base you need.Cabinetmaker/college woodworking instructor. Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
The advantage to the 690 is that, even though it's only 1-1/2 hp, it has a lot of power and can be pushed hard."
I have a PC 690, and I think that is debatable. Though I have to admit, it is a great all around router, but many others are also. Mine is still running after ten years, but the bearings are starting to rattle a tad, and it does bog down. But the performance isn't anything close to my new MKE. Plus the way the depth adj. works on the new MKE is way better.
Now as MKE Tool is a client, and as I built some components used for the production line for that router, I'm biased. But, most of my new power tools are now Red with no regrets.
WSJ
690 here too ............. good simple basic router with (to these arthritic old paws) nice feel and balance. The newer 890's and the Bosch feel top heavy to me.
690 with a D handle for all free routing. Table mounted PC 3 1/4 hpBuck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
I'm torn, I like my 690's I have one in a plunge base and one in a d-handle, the d-handle used to be my favorite,
On the other hand the Milwaukee body grip is so much more re-fined, the body grip gives more control then the d handle IMO, the height adjustment knob is great, and the motor locking mechanism is easier.
But the Milwaukee hasn't been running for me for 10 years strong with no problems yet...
In my collection of routers I usually reach for the Bosch 1618EVS D- handle. Handles almost every task, lightweight and is relatively quiet compared to the other screaming porter cable routers I have.
If you're looking for a light router that will feel like an extension of your hand, you might also look at the Porter-Cable Model 100. This was my first real router (we won't count the Black and Decker consumer-grade mistake), and I can sometimes one-hand it. A little smaller, less powerful than the 690, but a great tool.
One disadvantage: it takes 1/4" shank bits only.
Model 100 is great ................ nice to see I'm not the only one. Like it even better than the 690.
i've got that model 100 too('cept it says rockwell on it), my first router. My dad bought it used 15 years ago and handed it down to me. Ive had it for 2 and like it alot. Good size for roundovers. easy to one hand. Hemme laminate trimmer that fits the PC base______________________________________________
--> measure once / scribble several lines / spend some time figuring out wich scribble / cut the wrong line / get mad
Don't get me wrong, I know this stuff is probably the priciest on the planet. I have to say FESTOOL has changed my life. The FESTOOL 1400 EQ router is the smoothest and most versatile router I have ever owned. If you have a Woodcraft store in your area or a woodworking show check it out. I bought the saw,router,cordless drill,dust extractor vac., 6"rotex sander, and jig saw in one shot last month. It easily increased productivity 30% and made things possible in the field that aren't possible in some cabinet shops. The saw is capable of panel saw quality cuts and the router rides on the same rail system the saw does. Flutes and dadoes and complex trims are possible in the field. The router rides on a rail system that allows precise calibration to the 1/100th of an inch. I use my 690 PC for cutting rough openings in sheeting. For trim, cabinet work, etc. I take the Festool system.
http://www.festoolusa.com
i just haveto throw this in there: The new hitachi 2 1/4hp combo kit is increadably inexpensive. i just bought one and I'm very happy with it. Had it running for 4hrs straight yesterday and the motor wasnt even warm to the touch. It also is much quieter than my 690. Bast of all it is onlt $130 for the single speed kit on amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009VCBCA/qid=1136700378/sr=1-2/ref=sr_1_2/102-6484582-1120127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&n=228013
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--> measure once / scribble several lines / spend some time figuring out wich scribble / cut the wrong line / get mad
ditto on the 690 series, i have 3 or 4 in our cabinet shop oldest is at least 15 years
plenty of power for table work, easy bit change, relatively cheap and light and easy to use
I am shocked at the number of responses for the 690, out of 14 routers we use that one ....never. I am going to pull it out next time just because of this post.What does this situation in my life ask of me?
well we have about 20 routers in iur shop from makita laminate trimmers for light edge work to 3 hp hitachis for heavy work and all kinds in between inckuding a couple of "cheapies ie sears"
the first usually grabbed for a particular job that is not already set up is one of th 690s
I'm kinda partial to my new Milwaukee Body Grip; wish I could put the nice & quiet motor from my Makita on it. 'Course the P-C 690's are pretty nice too. Got one with over 10 years on it too. Lots of good choices in mid-sized routers out there.
Mike