Suggestions for a routing table? (limited budget)

**Glenn M** · 22nd August 2001, 01:24 PM

G'day All,

Because I generally suck at free hand routing and I have a job coming up that could really make good use of a router table, I am thinking of buying one so what are some suggestions?

My budget is very limited, so although I would really like Tritons new table (and legs) I can't afford the $200+ it would set me back.

Are the second-hand Triton tables usually in good condition? What sort of price could I expect there?

I'm not handy enough to make my own router table so I really do need something premanufacturered.

Thanks in advance!

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Glenn
www.woodworkbooks.com

**Shane Watson** · 22nd August 2001, 04:11 PM

All I use is a piece of laminated MDF approx 1000mmx600mm cut a round hole somewhere in the centre using the removable base of my router as a guide. Then I just clamp a straight edge where I want it. I used the KISS - (Keep it Simple Stupid) theory. Works a treat and only takes about 3 mins to mount the router by removing the plastic base and using longer screws attaching it to the board. Oh and usually I just clamp it to my bench or between horses.

There are plans available to build to your own router table. Just can't remember where I saw them, I'll have a look round the net & if I find them I'll post the url.

Cheers!

------------------
Shane Watson..

Combine Love & Skill & You Can Expect A Masterpiece!

**Richard Casey** · 26th August 2001, 11:28 PM

Have a look at Roger's site, www.gifkins.com.au for an excellent set of plans.
Regards Richard.

**Sandy Johnston** · 29th August 2001, 01:11 PM

have a look at the dewalt site - www.dewalt.com - they have a couple of articles on motising using a router with plans for a couple of "freehand" jigs that may help.
Goold luck - post a pic when project finished.

**Sandy Johnston** · 29th August 2001, 01:14 PM

Sorry, that is tennons.... http://www.dewalt.com/us/articles/ar...working&ID=244

Regards
Sandy

**Rod Smith** · 29th August 2001, 02:11 PM

G'day Glen
I have always marvelled at the wonderful router tables that some people have made. Many years ago I made a temporary one similar to shanes above. Yep, still using it, sept now I have 2. I upgrade the fence fixing though by routing a couple of slots and use coach bolts with wing nuts to fix in position. Also home made adapter for dust extraction. I have small signature trestles that are the same height as my work benches, one clamp, one trestle and rout away. To change or adjust bit, undo clamp, lift router table and clamp in vise, makes this part very easy. A good example of the KISS system.
Cheers
Rod

**Glen Bridger** · 30th August 2001, 11:31 PM

The current edition of Australian Woodsmith has a really good design for a router table and fence.
Some may think its a bit 'over the top' but it has a few very clever design tricks. Gives you a pretty good start.

Glen

**Shane Watson** · 31st August 2001, 09:05 AM

These links from WoodShop Demos might make for interesting reading if your still on the hunt.

Making A Bench Top Router

Router Table Cabinet

Shopcentre Router Table

Cheers!

------------------
Shane Watson..

Combine Love & Skill & You Can Expect A Masterpiece!

**Glenn M** · 31st August 2001, 09:35 AM

Holy cow! Thanks for all the replies guys! I think I might give Rod's simple benchtop a go first because I have some mdf lying around that is about the right size. If it is no good I haven't really lost anything except a little time <g>

------------------
Glenn
www.woodworkbooks.com

**Rod Smith** · 31st August 2001, 12:20 PM

G'day Glen
Just make sure the table is suported somehow. Note that mine is supported either side (bench one side, trestle the other). If you just put a trestle at each end it will sag in the middle.
Cheers
Rod

**RETIRED** · 31st August 2001, 11:42 PM

and clamp the bugger down

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Ian () Robertson
"We do good turns every day"

**Glenn M** · 7th September 2001, 10:16 PM

Thanks so much for your replies everyone!!!

Some good news came my way a couple of days ago and I have come into a little spare money that is to be spent on woodworking gear, so I have decided to buy the Triton Router Table (just was NOT an option when I first started this post).

Thanks again everyone, you've been fantastic

------------------
Glenn
www.woodworkbooks.com

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