Troy Ahner
11-30-2010, 6:19 PM
Need some help making a decision for a new router. Been reading through all the router threads and see the recommendations. I have concerns about some of the models that are being recommended.
I currently have a skil plunge router and will be keeping it for use as a second router, (plunge cuts, and squaring up edges with a straight edge)
Primary use for the new router will be for some home organization projects, garage cabinets (lots of them), laundry room cabinets, and closet organizers. (Lots of 1/2 “ veneer plywood with solid wood edges) Buying the new router to speed up results. Having a hard time adjusting depth and holding it on the plunge router. Plus don't have the power to take a full 1/2" x 1/2" cut.
I will continue my current use of a ¾” sheet of plywood on saw horses for a router table. No room for a table, I work outside when I can, and when the projects are over, the router gets stored and the plywood slides behind a tool box.
I’ll be cutting ½” dados, ½” rabbets along on solid stock to finish shelf edges and for cabinet construction. Also need to make some doors for the cabinets and for the garage I was planning on running one of the Bosch tongue and groove cutters for the door frame and then using ¼” ply for flat panels. I might do some basic raised panels for the laundry room cabinet doors.
So here it goes.
I’ve been looking at the Bosch 1617EVSPK, the Milwaukee 5616-24, and the PC 893(4,5). My concern with all of these is the depth adjustment, durability and accuracy. I understand their style of adjustment is convenient, I just don’t know if the depth adjustment being on the side is really that accurate or durable. How much do larger bits tilt and how well it holds during a deep cut?
Since my table is piece of plywood on saw horses, it’s easy enough for me to flip it up on its side and make depth adjustments. I have also been considering the PC690LVS and the Dewalt DW618, thinking that perhaps this style is going to lock depth and not move during my cuts.
I would appreciate hearing about your experiences with these potential issues for my intended use.
I currently have a skil plunge router and will be keeping it for use as a second router, (plunge cuts, and squaring up edges with a straight edge)
Primary use for the new router will be for some home organization projects, garage cabinets (lots of them), laundry room cabinets, and closet organizers. (Lots of 1/2 “ veneer plywood with solid wood edges) Buying the new router to speed up results. Having a hard time adjusting depth and holding it on the plunge router. Plus don't have the power to take a full 1/2" x 1/2" cut.
I will continue my current use of a ¾” sheet of plywood on saw horses for a router table. No room for a table, I work outside when I can, and when the projects are over, the router gets stored and the plywood slides behind a tool box.
I’ll be cutting ½” dados, ½” rabbets along on solid stock to finish shelf edges and for cabinet construction. Also need to make some doors for the cabinets and for the garage I was planning on running one of the Bosch tongue and groove cutters for the door frame and then using ¼” ply for flat panels. I might do some basic raised panels for the laundry room cabinet doors.
So here it goes.
I’ve been looking at the Bosch 1617EVSPK, the Milwaukee 5616-24, and the PC 893(4,5). My concern with all of these is the depth adjustment, durability and accuracy. I understand their style of adjustment is convenient, I just don’t know if the depth adjustment being on the side is really that accurate or durable. How much do larger bits tilt and how well it holds during a deep cut?
Since my table is piece of plywood on saw horses, it’s easy enough for me to flip it up on its side and make depth adjustments. I have also been considering the PC690LVS and the Dewalt DW618, thinking that perhaps this style is going to lock depth and not move during my cuts.
I would appreciate hearing about your experiences with these potential issues for my intended use.