Thread: hmmm which router to take?

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Originally Posted by woodfox

G'day all.
I'm currently on the lookout for a router, for home use free hand and I plan to make up router table. Is there any advise on which way to go. Being on a budget really sucks, but from what I've seen I'm up for about 200 bucks for something half decent. Had a look at a Maktec today. Seems like a good piece. 50mm depth 1650W. Others I have seen are about that but things like 35mm or a higher W. Is this a good all rounder or do I keep looking?

If price is the main constrain, the MAKTEC is not bad at all. It's been designed very similar to MAKITA 3612 for DIY job use. However, in my experience, it can do much more than that. It comes with solid edge guide and template guide as well.
I have one of this router for about 2 years and never got any trouble at all .

TIPS:
Once you have a router, you will need to buy (invest) Quality router bit which are not cheap. Good router with cheap bit, just won't perform well, IMO.

Maybe you can look at a second hand router - try eBay or put an ad up in the wanted section.
I personally have two routers, the big triton 2400w which stays in my router table and a hitachi tr12 which I got for $100 - it's a great router and has plenty of power. This is used for handheld use only. The only negative is that it's big and has no dust port.

Another router I love is the dewalt 621, it has dust extraction unlike my hitachi and feels nice to hold. If you can find a second hand one around your budget you won't regret it.

As for routers I've only used carbitool bits and they work great in my opinion.

Good luck

Andy