Best Wood Routers for Professional Carpentry

Now, let's review the numbers. We'd like to highlight the 12А motor that enables using long bits for deep cuts. In general, the router is compatible with 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", and 8mm bits. The model comes with two collets, 1/4" and 1/2". Reviewing the fixed-base unit, we found that the bit stroke is about 1-5/8"; the cutting depth can be changed only when the tool is off. Working with a plunge router, you can change the bit depth within 2-1/4". Now, we proceed with the cutting speed. The machine can minimally deliver 8,000 RPM, offer 13,500 and 16,500 RPM for cutting nonferrous metals, and spin at 20,000/21,500/25,000 RPM for softwood or plastics. Accordingly, large bits should be used for low speeds, while smaller ones are better for high RPM.

Speaking about this wood router peculiarities, we should mention its installation into a router table. That is to say, the router can be mounted topsy-turvy beneath a countertop. Installed this way, the router's collet is above the tabletop and its height can be adjusted with a hex wrench. Using the plunge router, you'll be able to vary the base height with the lock levers. To sink the base, release the levers, push the base to the required depth, and fix the levers. If you wish to raise the base, just push the levers and the base will go back, thanks to the spring-loaded feet. What is more, we'd like to point out the Constant Response™ system that maintains the machine's operation regardless of the load applied. Finally, the routers' start buttons are sealed against dust, so they won't jam and will let you turn the machines on and off whenever you need. Having explored the package of the router, we found two collet chucks, two bases, hex wrenches for adjusting the machines, as well as wrenches and screws for mounting a table. All these accessories come in a rigid plastic case with pockets for convenient storage of items included.

Well, this router kit is suitable for both novices and skilled handymen as it allows doing easy and tough jobs by a simple swapping the machines.

Let's now consider the router's capabilities. It is fitted with the 7А motor that drives the spindle at a speed from 16,000 to 27,000 RPM. We'd like to mention that the lower speed limit is rather high, so it's better not to use large bits. But the speed range is nice, allowing you to accurately cut different types of wood. The control dial offers you six speed settings: 16,000, 18,200, 20,400, 22,600, 24,800, and 27,000 RPM. Having set the machine to a low speed, you can employ bits up to 1/4" in diameter, but prefer smaller attachments if you want to cut faster. As to the cutting depth, the fixed base travels within 1.5", while the plunge base can be adjusted to 2". Returning to the adjustment ring, we can add that it smoothly changes the depth of cut within 1/64", so you can work more accurately.

This DeWALT wood router is not just efficient but very convenient too! We reckon that the LED lights are the greatest convenience of the model. They are arranged on the bottom of the router and meant to illuminate the area of cutting. This feature is truly handy as it allows you to control your work better and do it really well. Additionally, we advise you to buy a branded vac with an adapter to collect cuttings and not to wear a respirator. Also, we'd like to highlight a soft start of the motor that minimizes the load during each turn-on and extends the router life. The spindle lock is also considered yet it seems to be common in routers. Still, this component brings you the good by fixing the spindle in 12 positions for fast bit installation. Finally, we need to say that the router is supplied with a stiff canvas zipped bag for comfortable carrying.

The DeWALT DWP611PK router is a pick of all keen woodworkers!

Regarding the specification of the Black & Decker RP250 router, its main advantage is the spindle speed that lies within 8,000 - 27,000 RPM. Such a high maximum speed is achieved thanks to a pretty powerful 10A motor. Truth to tell, these ratings are nice for the tool's price! Setting the machine to low speed, you'll be able to use big bits for metal; high RPM rate is preferable for machining wood with small bits. The router's collet is connectable with bits 1/4 to 1-1/8", yet the shank diameter shouldn't exceed 1/4". Reviewing the cutting depth, we learned that the base moves within 2" that's a nice performance allowing to use a bit to the full.

In this paragraph, we will consider the convenience features of this plunge router. Firstly, mention the on-board dust extraction adaptor, so if you have a fitting vac, you can instantly connect the router to it. In such a way, you'll shun a respirator and save time that you'd spend collecting the chips. Still, if you have no vacuum, the plastic shield will protect you against shavings. Also, we'd like to laud the SIGHTLINE® base that allows you to see the workpiece and constantly control the cutting process. The unidirectional handles of this wood router are moot points for us since they can be used from one side only and can't be reversed or swapped. However, if this feature doesn't seem to bother you, get this router without hesitation.

This model is suitable for people seeking efficient and convenient router for long-time use. Besides, the machine allows monitoring the work area and can be run with a single finger.

It's time to check the specifications of this wood router, and the speed should be first as it determines which materials the machine can handle. The 6.5A motor is able to rotate the spindle at a speed from 10,000 to 30,000 RPM. More specifically, you'll be able to set 10,000, 12,000, 17,000, 22,000, 27,000, or 30,000 RPM. Choosing low speeds allows you to cut nonferrous metals, while a speedy run is better for softwood. Of course, you'll be able to use big and small bits respectively. The collet moves up and down within an inch, yet a single run should be within 1/8" to avoid the motor overload. Hence, if you need to cut deeper than 1/8", it's better to make several passages.

Below, we will review the conveniences of this Makita wood router. We need to point a thin casing and rubber pads for comfortable and confident grip. There's one more interesting feature which is a flat top. It turned out that this top allows overturning the machine for a convenient bit replacement. Easy and handy! Also, we'd like to highlight an electronic speed control to maintain the router's run under any load. The smooth start is also a nice solution as it prevents the motor from overcharge. The straight guide in the package is a nice bonus since it saves money on buying an additional one.

Summing up, we can recommend this router to users having wood, plastics, and metal cutting projects. After all, the router can be installed on a plunge base for even more comfortable job.

Examining the capabilities of this wood router, we should mention that the 11А motor delivers the rotating speed of 27,500 RPM and it's constant. Still, the tool is able to cut into a pretty wide range of materials, including softwood, plastic, and others ductile materials. The router's body is threaded for a smooth depth adjustment. Insert the bit into the collet, put the machine on a flat surface, and twist the motor unit until the bit touches the workpiece. This is the reference point that should be fixed by setting the adjustment ring to a zero line. Now, the collet can be descended to 1" from the zero line.

Having described the capabilities of this woodworking router, we should mention its usability. Most of all, we liked the cutting depth adjustment (up to 1/128") that enables cutting with high accuracy. The router comes with a 1/4" and a 1/2" collets for handling different bits. The power switch is protected from dust with the help of a seal to deliver a faultless functioning. The router's head is even, so you can tip the machine over for a comfortable bit replacement. We were somewhat upset by the absence of a spindle lock. Hence, you'll have to hold the spindle with a wrench and handle the collet while replacing the bit.

Thus, if you need a router solely for woodworking, the PORTER-CABLE 690LR is probably the best pick. Its handy fixed base with a high-precision depth adjustment will let you quickly perform all your woodworking tasks.