David Dixson
02-12-2005, 12:56 AM
I've just start the process of upgrading my "try it out and see if I like it tools" to more serious hobbyist/small professional tools. Right in the middle of this process, out of the blue I've gotten a "commission" to build some display cases for gun and knife shows.
I've seen many posts on here where those who've "been there" bought the tools they needed for each job as they went along, so I've decided to follow their philosophy. The tools I'll need aren't tools I had planned to buy at the present.
To do the job "right" I feel I should use lock-mitered corners in the display "base" and then assemble the lid (the part with the plexiglass) using pocket screws so it can be taken apart to replace the plexiglass if it gets broke in the future.
My problem is I don't own a large enough router to swing the heavier bits, hence the need for a large router and router table. I've decided to get the cast iron table offered by MLCS, the simpler version.
I've narrowed the router slection to either a Hitachi 12V or a Milwaukee 5625-20. The Hitachi is cheaper and I can buy it along with a palm sander (something I could use a couple more of) for $159.99 at amazon right now. The Milwaukee, on the other hand, while more expensive, seems to be specifically designed for table use and has a real nice above the table adjustment.
Can anyone who has owned or owns both router tell me what I don't know I need to know to make a smart decision about these? I'm buying this for a job and I'd rather not screw up the choice, as it's suddenly not a "hobby" situation.
BTW, I'm looking at the initial job as a way to pay for both the router and table, with a bit left over after buying materials. I figure I'd be smarter to put any money I make back into the shop rather than spend it frivilously, as I don't need it to pay any bills.
Thank you for your assistance,
Dave
I've seen many posts on here where those who've "been there" bought the tools they needed for each job as they went along, so I've decided to follow their philosophy. The tools I'll need aren't tools I had planned to buy at the present.
To do the job "right" I feel I should use lock-mitered corners in the display "base" and then assemble the lid (the part with the plexiglass) using pocket screws so it can be taken apart to replace the plexiglass if it gets broke in the future.
My problem is I don't own a large enough router to swing the heavier bits, hence the need for a large router and router table. I've decided to get the cast iron table offered by MLCS, the simpler version.
I've narrowed the router slection to either a Hitachi 12V or a Milwaukee 5625-20. The Hitachi is cheaper and I can buy it along with a palm sander (something I could use a couple more of) for $159.99 at amazon right now. The Milwaukee, on the other hand, while more expensive, seems to be specifically designed for table use and has a real nice above the table adjustment.
Can anyone who has owned or owns both router tell me what I don't know I need to know to make a smart decision about these? I'm buying this for a job and I'd rather not screw up the choice, as it's suddenly not a "hobby" situation.
BTW, I'm looking at the initial job as a way to pay for both the router and table, with a bit left over after buying materials. I figure I'd be smarter to put any money I make back into the shop rather than spend it frivilously, as I don't need it to pay any bills.
Thank you for your assistance,
Dave