Rhino

Looking for 2 quick feedback hits...

1. Seriously considering Hartville router table (down to $149 free shipping...everything but stand (HP laminate top, Al fence, t-tracks for fence, DC, etc.))...that's prime path, second path is Rockler (but for all included, it's a little more)...Anyone have thoughts (or experience with) Hartville router tables?

2. I have a Bosch 1617evspk (fixed base is RA1161)...Hartville pre-drills, but only for 1) PC7518 & 7519, 2) PC690c 890c & 7529, 3) DeWalt 625, Fein 800, and Bosch 1615, or 4) Sears models xxxx...Anyway, does anyone happen to know if the RA1161 fits into any of these hole patterns? If so, then it saves me drilling...

Thanks

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Joe Lyddon

Will S

I'll be watching for replies here, too. I wonder which one has the better fence?

Router is still my name

My first router table was Hartville, It ended up on eBay for 1/3 of the price after the first use. too many design flaws.

Rhino

Thanks for the input...however, where are design flaws (fence, table, plate, tracks, etc)? Also, when did you purchase yours (i.e. 6 years ago, and they've corrected flaws, or just 2 months ago and they still aren't any good)? Just curious because I'm dumbfounded there aren't more threads on these tables with the fact they're Hartville (generally trusted name) with numerous bells/whistles, and rock-bottom prices...I mean Rockler doesn't put t-tracks in their fences, they have through holes for fence adjustment, they are melamine (versus HP laminate) tops, DC is an option, yet they get glowing reviews...meanwhile, Hart tables are HP laminate, t-tracked everywhere, Al fence with t-tracks galore, cam clamps for fence adjustment, DC built in, inlcuded guide pins, stop pin for fence, etc.

Joe Lyddon

Take a look at the Oak Park table kits... They're on Sale now, I think.
There is a link to them somewhere on this site...

They make really GOOD stuff...

Router is still my name

Bells/whistles don’t make a great erouter table. Have a look at
http://us.oak-park.com/catalogue.html?list=RT01--
simple in design. Absolutely no bells and whistles. It provides a functionality and work surface area for most
users.
As far as my comment about design flaws, well you have to take that with grain of salt. I am of opinion that
The best router table is the one you build yourself that will accommodate your work style and habits.
Many things come in to play with a router table.
The height, the working style, will it get used with large pieces or small pieces most of the time.
How often will the T-Track get used if any. How accurate do you need your fence to be, 100% or
98% is good enough. How accurate and open –ended do you want the surface to be, As I said too many things to consider.
I can tell you this, 2-T-Tracks running across the table is not a good idea.
But whatever you decide to get, make sure it is something you can work with in the long run.

Joe Lyddon

I personally like the Std. model...

http://us.oak-park.com/catalogue.htm...--&product=620

If you price-out the individual items included, you will see how much of a good deal it is...

If you ever see any of The Router Workshop viseo programs on TheWoodworkingChannel.com you will see how functional it is!

Also, another subtle GREAT BONUS... the table top is predrilled for their Jigs... like the Spacer fences (easiest way to make box joints, etc.) (Hey, they are on Sale too!). Saves a lot of hassle of clamping, testing, adjusting, testing, before you drill your own holes... Those 3" clamps with the large rubber ends are really COOL too!

Rhino

Thanks to everyone for their advice and experienced wisdom...I pulled the trigger tonight and placed my order to Hartvilletools for the router table...once it arrives, I'll be more than happy to share my experience with other perspective buyers...Thanks...

challagan

Hi Rhino, hope you like and enjoy the new router table. Sounds like it was really what you wanted and it's best to satisfy yourself Hope it works out well and take some pics when you get it set up!
corey

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