Thread: Router advice for a newbie

I've had quite a bit of experience with routing and routers over the years and was once headhunted to be a router demonstrator in the UK. During that time, I have discovered is that there are no substitutes for either power or quality when it comes to routers, bench-mounted ones in particular.

The trick is finding the balance of those two essentials that comes within your budget, so almost inevitably, there may need to be compromise. Let's look at the main requirements for a bench-mounted router with a high degree of future-proofing:

• Motor size of no less than 1500W and preferably =/> 2000W
• Variable speed - essential to use the larger router cutters (bits)
• Above-the-table bit-changing is a major plus
• Above-the-table height adjustment is a major plus
• Purpose-made "on/off" switch, rather than using cable ties or velcro to keep a trigger depressed

Top of the range routers include the fabulous Festool OF2200EB but it is so versatile it could be said to be "too good" to use in a table. The (very high) price tag makes it normally a professional-only tool, in any event, but it is as good as you could possibly get.

A mid-price-range model would include the Triton TRA001 (also sold as TRB001 and the CMT7E).

This router was specifically designed to be used inverted (table-mounted) and has several unique features specifically for that type of operation. I did a review on it a while back that describes it fully. I also wrote a page on basic router operation and safety, which is here if you find the time.

I've also tried DeWalt and Ryobi large routers, but I've found them disappointing in a number of areas. That's hopefully given you somewhere to start looking. Any further or more specific questions, then fire away, here or via PM (but please allow for our time differences).

Ray

Like Ray I have also been working with routers for 0ver 40 years I have also been visiting many wood shows throughout Australia over the past 20 years giving demonstration on the Router. I have written an article in 2001 on 'What I look for when purchasing a router' which may be of some assistance.

One of the things I have realised over the years is that the router in the table is not the ideal position to use the router as you will not be able to use the router to it's Full Potential. Yes there are many processes that require the use of the table as I have three set up permanently for such use. Select a router that can be used in both the Table and the Plunge mode and investigate the use of the template guides to obtain the router's full potential.

Thank you Ray and Tom
I have looked at the Festool and drooled over but its more than I want to spend. I was looking at a Makita and a Hitachi - they are around the $450 to $500 mark and both can be used either under a bench or hand held. I am a bit of a fan of the Hitachi gear having already purchased a Hitachi 10" compund saw and a couple of drills. I invested in the Fein multitool at the Sydney Wood show although that was mainly because I have some bathroom work to do and it looks great for removing grout. However its also a great detail sander.
Next on the list are 3 things that will probably be bought in 1 hit - router table, Gifkins dovetail jig and the router. I can get all of those for the price of a Festool.
I really appreciate the advice and tips. Once again thank you.
Cheers

After a while i have come to the conclustion that you can't have a router that works well in table mode and is ok to use by hand,in my router table I have a 1/2 inch triton which allows you to change bits above the table but if you try to use this by hand you will find that it is just too heavy to work well.so I also have a cheapy 1/4 inch that is great for rebating on doors for panel or glass infill and edge's (sadly you will need 1/2 and 1/4 inch bits) for various tasks.

Sorry to hijack the thread.....my questions are somewhat related. I consider myself to be a reasonable woodworker, but have never used a router.....mainly because I have never been shown I guess. It was something my father always took care of and never showed me growing up (unlike every other tool).

...he's not quite with it any more and I have inherited his routers. A couple of old Hitachi's I see here often, an Elu, and a Rupes plunge. I'm not sure I've got all the accessories for them...still working through some boxes.

Where is a good place to start to learn about their use? I mean going right back to basics through to advanced?

...the next thing on my shopping list (hopefully for an upcoming "0" birthday) is an Incra table, a new router and a mortice pal. I'd like to get to know routers/routing a lot better before I get these goodies.

P.S. I'd like a Domino too, but reckon learning to use a router and a mortice pal would be just about as good (for simple joints)

Originally Posted by Elill

Sorry to hijack the thread.....my questions are somewhat related. I consider myself to be a reasonable woodworker, but have never used a router.....mainly because I have never been shown I guess. It was something my father always took care of and never showed me growing up (unlike every other tool).

...he's not quite with it any more and I have inherited his routers. A couple of old Hitachi's I see here often, an Elu, and a Rupes plunge. I'm not sure I've got all the accessories for them...still working through some boxes.

Where is a good place to start to learn about their use? I mean going right back to basics through to advanced?

...the next thing on my shopping list (hopefully for an upcoming "0" birthday) is an Incra table, a new router and a mortice pal. I'd like to get to know routers/routing a lot better before I get these goodies.

P.S. I'd like a Domino too, but reckon learning to use a router and a mortice pal would be just about as good (for simple joints)

There are courses conducted in various parts of the country here in WA I know of one area of learning the basics of the router through to the the advanced stage and even to new rechniquies that can save a lot of cost on purchasing other machines. There are many You Tube videos up on the net to let you see how versatile the router really can be, some wood shows have demonstrations on a number of routing processes. I know for certain Perth show have been demonstrating for a number of years and will be demonstrating this year Sept.
Tom