Looking For Small Router...

[Derek Arita]

I mean really small. Like about the size of a Dremel Tool with a fixed/adjustable base. I'm hoping for a base that is around 1 to 1 1/2" square. I want to be able to do quick hinge-type mortises in tight spaces. I've seen the small dremel with plunge base, but the base is too big. I already have a couple of small trim routers, but the bases on those are way to big to fit small spaces.

[Phil Barrett]

For something that is really small, I'd just do it by hand with a good sharp chisel.

[Jamie Buxton]

1" square base? You must be working on really small stuff. I'm pretty sure you'll have to build your own.

If you're trying to fit the router in really small spaces, you'll also have to find a small motor, because the usual ones will be considerably bigger than 1". You might consider taking it out of the problem by using a remote motor, like a dentist's drill. I think Foredom has a right angle chuck for their line of flexible-shaft tools. Maybe you can add the equivalent of a router's base to that chuck.

[Peter Quinn]

Sharp butt chisels....bright light. Or if possible do this sort of thing pre-assembly.

[Derek Arita]

Ok. Smallest base I can find. I already have a Dremel 9000, but I can't find the depth gage/base or 1/4" collet for it. When I'm doing a quick patch, hisels are too slow for me. I should say im too slow.

[Derek Arita]

Will Dremel 9000 fit other model accessories?

[pat warner]

Smallest trimmers = 3.5" castings or edge to cutter center = 1.75", as small as small trimmers get.
Makita RT0701C & Rid.R2401, plenty of power, lights, and small.

[Rich Engelhardt]

Have you looked at the Harbor Freight trim router?
Never mind - I see you said plunge.

[Derek Arita]

Have you looked at the Harbor Freight trim router?
Never mind - I see you said plunge.

No...not plunge.

[William Adams]

I have both the Makita RT-0701c and the Harbor Freight Trim Router --- for one time use, if you're not too fussy, the latter might be okay, but if this is a tool you're going to keep, then the Makita is in a whole 'nother class. Highly recommended.

[Tom Ewell]

Proxxon makes a batch of little power tools, check out their router line.

[Jerome Stanek]

my PC trim router has three bases one is a close cut offset base

[Huck Schwee]

This is probably going to be one of the smallest you will be able to find. It's for a Dremel and is used for instrument making.

http://www.stewmac.com/Luthier_Tools/Tools_by_Job/Inlay_and_Pearl_Cutting/Precision_Router_Base/Precision_Router_Base.html

[Paul M Miller]

This one is used by luthiers with a dremel. I have one and is well made.

http://www.stewmac.com/Luthier_Tools/Tools_by_Job/Inlay_and_Pearl_Cutting/Precision_Router_Base/Precision_Router_Base.html

[Derek Arita]

I've seen the Stewmac base. Pretty neat. I've asked about the PC offset base, but I haven't found anyone that sells just the base. I actually went out and got a Dremel 4200, with the adjustable base. Works pretty well for small/shallow mortises, using the flat bottom router bit. That said, I can't use 1/4" bits with it, so It is limited. I'm also looking at the Bosch Colt kit. It includes an offset base and a tilting base that looks like it may be cut off on one side, allowing one to get up close to an obstruction.
Also, I called Dremel about the adjustable base for my 9000. Although the tool is discontinued, the base base is still available, so I'm having them send me one. I may be able to cut off some of the base to allow me to get up close to obstructions. Between that, the 4200 and the Bosch, I should be covered.

[Dan Cameron]

I once made my own with one of these. Note that air grinders run fast enough for router bits.
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-front-exhaust-air-angle-die-grinder-52848.html

[Jerry Olexa]

Bosch Colt a good one but probably not small enough for you...

[Derek Arita]

Bosch Colt a good one but probably not small enough for you...
Yeah...colt is not small enough. That's why I got the Dremel 4200. Works well and also has the tooless bit changes as well. I'm still looking for the right bases.

[Derek Arita]

Well...I just got the plunge base for the Colt. I had to if I'm going to use it for general inlay patches.

[William Adams]

Agree w/ the suggestion of the Stewart Macdonald base.