I'm putting the finishing touches on my version of the 'Norm' router table. For the past few years I've been very happy with my plain jane 1 3/4 PC router (690 series off the top of my head I think). I bought it as a kit that came with fixed/plunge/and D-handle after a mail in rebate. It's an oldy but goody- not a lot of the newer bells and whistles like through the table adjustments, micro adjustments, lighted base, dust collection, etc. A month after I bought the kit, Ridgid released their 2 1/4 kit and I've been jealous ever since.
I'm using some bigger bits, and with the nice router table setup, I want to be able to fine tune bit height through the table, and I want a little more power for panel bits, molding bits, etc. Plus, just having another router would be nice as I often find myself switching back and forth between the table and handheld, and back and forth between setups.
So do I get a dedicated 3HP router for the table (and if so, which one?) or do I go with one of the 2 1/4 kits. I'm looking at a Freud kit that also comes with an aluminum base plate for about $250, the Ridgid kit as well, vs. a very similar craftsman 2 1/4 kit. There's also the PC 890 series kits. I like the "bang for the buck" by getting another kit, but maybe that's not what I need.
If you are going to dedicate a router to a table there is no substitute for power. Since you have opted for above the table height adjustment you have ruled out the much quicker adjusting plunge router with the springs removed method. Chose your router to fit a lift, they are pretty much the same. The lifts adjust quicker than the built in versions, with the possible exception of the Triton.
If you are going to dedicate a router to a table I would suggest Milwaukee , Model 5625-20. Plenty of power and it has above the table height adjustment.
I'm a bit suprised at the lack of opinions... I think I've narrowed it down to either the Ridgid (price, LED, warranty) vs the PC 893 kit. I found a kit at the local WW store that will throw in the micro adjust edge guide, template bushings, above the table adjust knob, and a $25 gift card for $259 which takes the sting out of the price difference.
I'm a little leary of the Ridgid mainly because it's a first run at routers for them. I've been very happy in the past with a 3650 TS, but I don't think the router has been time tested yet. I read some reviews where the micro-adjuster had some play in it as well. Where PC has been making routers for some time, and to some degree there's a bit more brand loyalty. I found a review in Wood magazine that basically listed them as a wash out of the box. They liked the Bosch kit as a top tool, but with my 690 router, either of the two I'm considering with will work will all my other base plates, router plate, and accessories.
Lack of specific advice could well be due to the lack of details in your profile, a large photo. is where one normally gives their first name, where they live and details of their woodworking background.
I have the PC 893 kit. Using the fixed base, it is dedicated to the table. It has performed beautifully. I haven't tried any 3" bits in it yet, but I'm not making doors either.
I use a smaller Craftsman for hand routing.
I didn't think my first name or location of residence would affect my router choice. I've been lurking and posting for 3 years, I have several projects in my gallery if you want to see my background projects. I've also posted in the Show n' Tell areas.
I prefer a bit of anonymity on these (online in general) forums to be honest.
No problem on the anonymity with me (although it is hard to spell ).
I use a Bosch 1617EVS with a dedicated base, the RA1165 (?), in table. That allows me to use the fixed or plunge for hand-held projects, at my leisure. The extra base set me back about $50-60, IIRC. It has been very useful, allows for above table adjustment and the motor can be removed in less than 10 seconds. As Mike posted, also, I am not using it for rails and stiles or other bigger bits so it does the job very well. I like the plunge base operation, it handles very well and adjustment is very easy.
If your PC router doesn't have the plunge base, you might want to pick up a kit that has 2 bases. I have the Freud 1700 in my table, and like it. I think their 2 base kit can be had for around $150 or less.
I decided to go with the PC 893 kit. I can use all my bases with all my routers. I think I can even throw my 690 motor in the new plunge base. I'm not crazy about the spindle lock, but my old wrenches work just fine. I like the switch design, easy to get to and it automatically shuts off when I stand it up to change bits.
I read several reviews that said 2.25 was enough to get most jobs done, it may mean more shallow passes. So far it works like a champ. I can't wAit to put the new table to work.
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