If I were going to buy ONE hand held router, what would it be?

[scott vroom]

I plan to purchase a hand held router as a gift for my son. My only experience with routers is limited to my 2 PC routers: 6902 w/1001 fixed base for hand held trim flush, roundover, etc., and a 7518 dedicated to my router table. Both serve me well.

Assuming the gifted router will never be used in a router table, what is the sweet spot for hand held general purpose routers that will accept 1/4" and 1/2" collets? I guess HP is critical, as is a good base. Is a plunger type considered essential for general woodworking (cabinets, tables, book cases, etc.)?

I want to buy a top quality router.

I notice on Amazon a number of top name router "kits" that include both fixed and plunge bases....this seems to make good sense. All are around $200 which is on budget. Examples:

http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-1617EVSPK-4-Horsepower-Variable-Collets/dp/B00005RHPD/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1357767183&sr=1-1&keywords=routers+woodworking

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW618PK-Plunge--Fixed-Base-Variable-Speed/dp/B00006JKXE/ref=sr_1_8?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1357767183&sr=1-8&keywords=routers+woodworking

http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-KM12VC-4-Horsepower-Variable-Collets/dp/B0002ZZWX8/ref=sr_1_11?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1357767183&sr=1-11&keywords=routers+woodworking

http://www.amazon.com/Porter-Cable-693LRPK-Fixed-Router-Plunge/dp/B00006411C/ref=sr_1_30?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1357767683&sr=1-30&keywords=routers+woodworking



Am I on the right track?

Many thanks!

[Bruce Page]

The Porter-Cable 691 D-handle is hard to beat for a full size handheld, IMO.

[Brent Ring]

I would pick the Dewalt for the dust Collection. I have two handheld (Dewalt Trim size, and Hitachi 2.25 HP) routers and one in a table, and that is what I dont like about my handhelds. THey generate a lot of dust that is not easily collected. The Dewalt handheld does. IMHO!

[Tom Ewell]

Over at routerforums.com the Bosch is highly touted, I have an older Bosch kit and the only bugaboo I would have is that the standard Porter Cable guide bushings didn't fit.

I use the snap-in Bosch bushings but there may now be a base plate available ready for the Porter Cable style.

I used fixed based routers long before needing a plunger but these multibase kits allow for the best of both worlds.

I also like a D handle a lot. :)

[Michael W. Clark]

I like the concept of the Dewalt plunge base dust collection. I don't have the Dewalt but have the PC 890 with fixed and plunge base. I think the newer version of the PC 890 has the dust collection similar to the Dewalt.

I know you have narrowed your list, but if I had it to do again, I would strongly consider one of the compact routers (Dewalt especially). I'm not sure if they take 1/2" bits though, so that would be a major drawback.

[John McClanahan]

I have the DeWalt 3 base kit. I like it a lot BUT, they have a magnet ring on the armature shaft to give the speed control feedback and this ring has been prone to breaking. It seems to happen more when used in a table (upside down). Replacing the ring is a PIA. When it breaks, the router runs full speed only.I haven't had any problems with mine yet, and I don't use in my table.

John

[Carl Beckett]

The Porter-Cable 691 D-handle is hard to beat for a full size handheld, IMO.


+1. Have recommended this to a couple different people and have never had any complaints.

[Carl Beckett]

+1. Have recommended this to a couple different people and have never had any complaints.


I have two of these, a makita trim, a dewalt 621? (the plunge), a 3hp PC in the router table. Still reach for that D handle most often

[glenn bradley]

Many a wise man has said "if you can only get one router, make it a plunge". IMHO, this could now be modified to "if you can only get one router, make it a combo". You missed my favorite:

http://www.patwarner.com/5616pk.html

The Milwaukee 5616-24 combo kit.

[Keith Christopher]

My first router was a porter cable 8529, I LOVE this router. I still have it and it is a SOLID performer. It can be used in a table and has some attachments for that. It is a nice variable speed slow start router. It has NEVER let me down. I will cry when it finally dies. They can be had for a couple hundred bucks if you search online.


http://www.remodelr.com/Prod/Porter-Cable-8529-Variable-Speed-Plunge-Router/RM236657/Cat/175?gclid=CKaL5-Cy3LQCFYqZ4AodrzMAEQ

[Mark Wooden]

I'd go with the Bosch. I have a 1604- a forerunner of the 1617- I got 18+ years ago and it's still my favorite out of the seven I own. Runs strong, feels like it really is the stated hp and the bit is truly centered on the fixed base. They made an adaptor ring that you installed under the base plate for the PC guide bushings and I have used it with great success. My only wish is that the collets are a little beefier.

[Dan Masshardt]

I'd buy this again in a heartbeat. Cman pro 14 amp(2.5hp) var speed soft start plunge and fixed bases. Edge guide and soft case. On sale now for $143 online (I paid even less). The only complaint is I had to buy extra sub base plates to get bigger bit opening. Plenty of good reviews. Best router deal around IMO.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-14-amp-2.5-hp-fixed-plunge-base-router/p-00927680000P?prdNo=3&blockNo=3&blockType=G3

[Steven Hsieh]

I would own two routers. One for plunge, the other general purpose.

[Michael Mayo]

Over at routerforums.com the Bosch is highly touted, I have an older Bosch kit and the only bugaboo I would have is that the standard Porter Cable guide bushings didn't fit.

I use the snap-in Bosch bushings but there may now be a base plate available ready for the Porter Cable style.

I used fixed based routers long before needing a plunger but these multibase kits allow for the best of both worlds.

I also like a D handle a lot. :)

I have the Bosch 1617 EVPK Fixed/Plunge set and I bought the Bosch guide bushing set. One of the bushings in the set is an adapter to allow you to use Porter Cable style guide bushings with the Bosch guide bushing setup and it works fine. The adapter screws into the baseplate and the PC bushings insert into the adapter. I love the 1617 great router I have used a ton since I got it year and a half ago. I paid $90 for it with some assorted bits used of CL.

[Steven Triggs]

I have the Dewalt DW618, and love it. I find it very comfortable to use free hand (light weight, comfortable grip, can easily reach the power switch without removing my hand from the handle). It also has plenty of power for semi-large bits (it worked well in a table with a lock miter bit, removing quite a bit of material per pass). I haven't tried a panel raising bit with it, which might be too much, but since you said he won't be using it in a table, I assume bits of that size aren't of interest anyway.

[Steven Triggs]

I'd buy this again in a heartbeat. Cman pro 14 amp(2.5hp) var speed soft start plunge and fixed bases. Edge guide and soft case. On sale now for $143 online (I paid even less). The only complaint is I had to buy extra sub base plates to get bigger bit opening. Plenty of good reviews. Best router deal around IMO.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-14-amp-2.5-hp-fixed-plunge-base-router/p-00927680000P?prdNo=3&blockNo=3&blockType=G3

I have to wonder if that one may be made by Dewalt (entirely possible for the Craftsman Professional line). Comparing it to my DW618, it's handles appear to be the same shape, the "hood" over the power switch looks the same, and it has a very similar looking setup for allowing the power cord to be removed. Granted, it is definately not identical, and in today's cross over of tool manufactures, it doesn't tell you much, but I thought it interesting none the less...

[Jim Andrew]

I have 2 of the Hitachi M12vc. One was a kit with a plunge and regular base, the other just has the regular base. Got both on sales at Lowes, one was on close out, below 100$
They have a soft start, built in speed control, good balance, run smoother than any pc I have. I think I have 7 or 8 routers, incl cman, porter cable, ryobi and 3 hitachi routers, one is the old 3 1/4 hp M12. The cman routers are the least quality.

[John Hays]

I'd buy this again in a heartbeat. Cman pro 14 amp(2.5hp) var speed soft start plunge and fixed bases. Edge guide and soft case. On sale now for $143 online (I paid even less). The only complaint is I had to buy extra sub base plates to get bigger bit opening. Plenty of good reviews. Best router deal around IMO.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-14-amp-2.5-hp-fixed-plunge-base-router/p-00927680000P?prdNo=3&blockNo=3&blockType=G3


I have to agree, DO NOT overlook the Craftsman routers.

I took a chance and bought the 27683 combo kit almost a year ago and I'm glad I did. It has performed very well so far. I'll admit that this is the first full sized router I've ever owned, but for $120 it has all the features I need. The fit & finish also seems to be pretty rock solid. In fact, I plan to buy another one for the router table (once my shop construction is finally completed).

I highly recommend getting one for beginners, because:
- 2hp is plenty of power
- Soft start and veriable speed control work great
- It isn't top heavy and glides like a dream
- If he happens to break it, no big deal since it was cheap

I know Craftsman has a bad rep, but I have no complaints with this router.

[Ray Newman]

A router fits your hand or it doesn’t. A simple and important feature.

If your son lives close by, gives him a gift certificate for a router. Then he or both of you take a woodworking “culture trip” to the various tool suppliers and have him handle the routers on display. That was he can pick what feels right to him.

If he doe not live close by, you could send him a gift certificate for a router and reimburse him.

Seems to be a worthwhile solution as over the years I have know a few woodworkers who were “gifted” with tools that were not utilized very much or eventually replaced because they just did not feel right or were not what they really desired….

[Tom Ewell]

Good point Ray. How the tool fits is a high consideration.

My favorite free hand routers almost all have a trigger rather than toggle and a handles over a knobs.

As with any tool, one can "get used to it" over time but it is nice to get one that feels good from the get go.

[Steve Gronsky]

I have basically the same question as the original poster on this thread. I'm adding this comment so that I can subscribe to the thread and get additional updates/information.

Thanks all.....

[phil harold]

Only if I could have only one router it would be this baby
http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/PORTER-CABLE-Router-4Z950

just wished they still made them
Small compact easy to control
mine is 30 plus years plus and the first one I grab for free hand work

[Lornie McCullough]

Porter Cable 690.....

Splurge and get the kit with fixed base, plunge base, and the D-handle.

Lornie

[Bill Neely]

Another vote for the Milwaukee 5616, probably the best all around router I've ever owned.

[Rich Engelhardt]

Another vote for the PC690.
Sort of the Ford F100 of routers...

[Mike Cutler]

I have basically the same question as the original poster on this thread. I'm adding this comment so that I can subscribe to the thread and get additional updates/information.

Thanks all.....

Steve

I've owned a few routers through the years. PC 8529, Milwaukee 5615, PC890, a DeWalt (I forget the model #) A couple of older crappy Craftsman's, and Festool OF2200. I've also used a bunch of others that belonged to other people.

The PC8529's are workhorses. No doubt about it. These are powerful routers. If you have largish hands they are comfortable as handhelds, but in a bench they shine.
The Milwaukee 5615 was a very comfortable router in the hand. I loved the body grip. I broke two of them on the same project, and bought a DeWalt after that. Both times the motor burned out routing long grooves in Jatoba. It's still a very nice router, just don't abuse it like I did. I probably would have tried the 5625 the second time, but they didn't have one, so I got a DeWalt instead. Nice router, But I was sort of clumsy with it. It just didn't fit my hands.
The PC 890 is small and compact, but I don't like it. Mine is loud and whines. There is a high frequency vibration to it that is very fatiguing to the hands. But the noise is too much. I keep it because of it's size, but rarely use it.
The Craftsman's were junk. A waste of good plastic and aluminum.
The Festool is everything I want in a handheld router. Big, powerful, smooth. It took the place of a PC 8529 I was using that was beating my hands up while routing thick Padauk. But it is a big router, physically, and somewhat heavy. I have larger hands so I don't have an issue using the Festool handheld,but I could easily see that someone with smaller hands would have trouble. I guess you could mount the Festool in a router table, but it seems like a waste too me. It truly was designed around being handheld. My PC 8529's are set up for the router table anyway, and they're little beasts.

Bottom line in my opinion is that there is no best router. Each person has to find the one that suits them the best.
To answer the original question though. For me the OF2200 is hands down the nicest handheld router I've used to date.

[pat warner]

I'd be lookin' at DW 621.
An Elu in yellow clothing, still the best mid-sized plunger that can do fixed base work as well as any fixed base.
Strangely, has its price high for >20 years.

[Dick Mahany]

My go to router of choice is the Bosch 1618 EVS D handle. I did wind up buying the plunge base separately later on and think the dual base combo is a pretty nice setup although I do like the D handle very much. The router has been very reliable and the snap in bushing adapter including the ability to use PC style guides is great for what I do. I've used it for many different applications including the Leigh dovetail jig and always get excellent results. Wouldn't trade mine.

[Larry La Mont]

I have a Hitachi M12 31/4 HP plunge in my router table with Jess-em Rout-R-Lift, an old (70's) Craftsman fixed base 13/4 HP, a DeWalt DW621 plunge, and a Bosch 1608 trim router. They are all good at at least one thing. Times have changed and if I could only have one router it would be one of the Bosch or DeWalt 2 1/4 HP kit with both plunge and fixed base. I would also get an optional D-Handle fixed base. When I finally decided to build or buy a good router table, you can get a 3 1/4 HP motor only from many companies and put it in a good router lift. My only regret is none of my routers easily adapt to custom bases or modern router lifts.

Also, don't ignore PC ( the oldest name in hand held power tools ). also, Craftsman, just beware that their routers usually don't review as good as the others. Milwaukee makes a well respected router too.

I do a lot of cabinets and boxes and my mix and match serves me well. I would go to a big box and just hold the tools you are considering and pick the one that feels most comfortable. And remember, if your choice costs substantially less than the others, there is a reason.

[glenn bradley]

So Scott. . . wudidga do?

[Ray Newman]

Phil Harold: I also have one of the older Made-In-The-USA PC100 routers, and it is very handy at times! Believe it is one of PC’s 100 year anniversary commemorative units with a steel carrying case. Guess I am not alone after all!Just do not care for the location of the power switch.Been a long time since I saw a PC 100 router or the PC505 half-sheet finish sander in a shop….

[Peter Kuhlman]

For a single router, it has to be a plunger as many tasks require plunge action that is dangerous or gives potential damage to the project if tried with a fixed base. A combo base kit is great and can give all the options in a single motor package. I have at least 11 routers. They seem to multiply in the dark! My favorites are the Festools and the OF1400 would be the one to get in that brand to do 1/4" and 1/2" bits. As Pat says, the Dewalt 621 is very nice with excellent dust collection. I had one for years and gave it to my son. Mine was Italian made but now all the Dewalts I see in stores come from Mexico. I have 2 newer Dewalt 618s from Mexico and have had several problems with them. Still, the Dewalt 618 series kits seem to be the best for adjustments and fit of the motor in the various bases that I have tried.

[Chris McLeester]

I really love my Porter Cable (same one as in the link). I think it only comes with the 1/4" collet. Definitely get the 1/2" as well. Amazon sells the accessories. I also like the wider clear base, which is needed for some wider trim and panel bits (10 bucks).

I suggest checking out Craigslist and pawn shops. I got mine for $50 -- probably a few years older, but the same router. That's less than a good bit or two.