Mid Range Routers

[Jim Summers]

Hello All,

I am looking at getting a second router that I can leave a flush trim or round-over bit chucked up. I am looking in the $125 - $175 range. The one I keep finding is the Porter Cable 9690LR. Pretty much a basic router.

I already have a router table setup so I plan use it for most routing operations and then have this one as a portable / quick one-time uses.

Is the 9690LR a decent router? Any other options in my price range?

TIA

[pat warner]

A good one, no hesitations.

[Bill Huber]

I don't know anything about the PC router.

I have a Bosch Colt and for $100 it is one great little router, I use it all the time for edge trimming and round over type cuts. It is only rated at 1 HP but it has a lot of power for that 1 HP. It is small and easy to handle and with an added base you can use router bushing with it.

Just something else to look at.

[Mike Rees]

I'd like to hear more about the Colt with regards to edging /rounding off material. Specifically .75" - 1" pine, oak, or maple boards. Sounds like a good little router to edge end/coffee/sofa tables, bookcases, etc.

Can you use a straight edge with a Colt to cut dados and rabbets for builtins and such?

I was handling one at Lowes the other day. Definitely not intimidating, comfortable to hold, light weight, etc.

[scott spencer]

The 690 is a good basic router, but prefer the Milwaukee 5615. It's well made, has the BodyGrip feature that I like a lot, an excellent plunger, and accepts standard bushings. Go with what feels best to you.

[Myk Rian]

I have a PC890 in the table and use a Craftsman 1 3/4hp for hand held.
The Craftsman line share many parts with the PC, and other lines. They are a great router for $80
The 2hp dual base is $120.
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00917543000P?mv=rr

[Duane Murray]

I have the PC 690LR that is mounted in a Woodpecker lift and mounted on an incra table from Woodpecker. However, mounting and unmounting it became such a pai8n I just purchased two more, one for my son and the other for freehand work as welll as to use with my Leigh Dovetail Jig. I can't say enough good things about this router.:D

[roman fedyk]

Agreed, the PC 690 is a real workhorse. I also have Dewalt, my brother likes his Hitachi. I think if you stick with the top tool names you will be satisfied. Amazon often has deals on routers so check in with them often.