I'm in the process of building a work table that incorporates a track saw and router, similar to the open frame table shown in the video but with a solid MDF top and a moveable fence to the left of the track. The table will be used to cut panels to length and also to cut dadoes across them. Since I've added the mini split to my shop, I've become more aware of the need to control dust so am looking for a router with dust collection. I see that dust collection can be added to the Bosch 1617 and it is certainly highly recommended on this forum. My first router was a Craftsman - don't know the model as it was stolen when my shop was broken into - but it had a trigger on-off switch in the RH handle. I'm a big fan of the trigger switch on a router - my most used router is a P-C D-handle - as I like the idea of having the controls right there without having to take a hand off the router. For this reason, and based on Pat Warner's recommendation on his web site, I've been looking at the Dewalt 621 router. I watched a "hands-on" review of the router
- the on-off and plunge lock in the handles is, to me, a nice feature
- I was really impressed by how little dust seemed to escape the dust collection feature
- as did the reviewer, I liked the top exit of the dust collection hose and the fact that it swiveled out of the way.
- the small base bothered the reviewer. I would have mine bolted to the carriage of the track router so that wouldn't be a problem, but a base from Pat Warner would solve the tipping problem if used hand-held.

A negative for me were the number of reviews of the 621 that mentioned quality problems, mostly bearings and switches, whereas the Bosch seemed to be relatively complaint free. Does anyone have the 621 and can they comment on any problems with the router? Also, does anyone have the dust collection feature on their Bosch, and can they comment on it's effectiveness?

Thanks.

Tom, you can add excellent dust collection ability to your PC with a Betterley Stacc-Vac. The Bosch routers shown are the MRP23EVS and the 1617EVS in the plunge base; both with the optional dust collection adapters. The 23 has the trigger switch you like and built in LED work lights. Both are quieter and more powerful than the PC 690 series. The Stacc-Vac works with the Bosch too.

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I can't help with the DW621.

I have two of the Bosch 1617 combo kits, a Triton 3 1/4 hp table mounted router and the little DeWalt compact combo kit DWP611PK.

They all get the job done. I like the little guy for edge trimming and some dado work. The Bosch's are used in a table (with fixed base) and hand held with the plunge base. One plunge base and router body is set up for cutting half blind dovetails using the PC dovetail jig.

Here is some info I have put together for the Bosch 1617.
Hope this helps.
Mike

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File Type: pdf

Bosch 1617 EVSPK Router Combo Kit Description.pdf (1.12 MB, 211 views)

Mike,

Thank for the great information. I had seen the Betterly before, and had forgotten all about it. That may be the way to go as it would eliminate the need to buy another router.

I was thinking after posting my questions that the trigger switch may not be a deal breaker with a plunge router as you can always release the lock and have the bit disengage if there's a problem. I watched the videos on Bettery's web site and they do show a pretty impressive dust collection. The black mounting plate on the EZ unit is 1/2" thick so I'm thinking that the aluminum base could be modified pretty easily for attaching to the carriage - it would still be a little higher, but I don't think that the extra 1/4" would be significant.

What do you think about the 23EVS? - it is apparently a fairly new model and there aren't a lot of reviews as compared to the 1617.

I have the plunge base for the 690 so that's another option - I'm only going to be using it for cutting dadoes across plywood (and maybe Melamine) panels so the lower HP isn't going to be a problem.

More options to think about. Thanks

Thanks Mike, that's a pretty comprehensive write-up on the 1617, it seems to be a pretty versatile unit. How effective would you rate the dust collection on that router, especially for flat routing like dadoes?

and promptly stolen for redistribution...

For the 1617 in a table, consider a foot switch. Hands are free to work the piece. Get one with the cord coming out the side if you can, easier to place right up against a table. I think you could also use such a switch for free hand work as well. I have a Colt that is a real pleasure to use for light duty work.

Switches on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/MLCS-9089-Swit...ds=foot+switch

Or this one: http://www.amazon.com/Power-Maintain...ds=foot+switch

Tom, the 23 has all the features of the 1617 and more. The longer power cord swivels and it feeds a more powerful motor; 15 amp rating like 3+ HP models as opposed to the 12 amp rating of the 1617. More plunge depth. The 23 series uses all the same accessories as the 1617 except the dust collection adapters and sub base plate. I included Elaire's list of collet sizes which fit both the 23 and 1617.

When table mounting the fixed base of the 23 the non switch handle needs to be removed for clearance. The switch handle must be in line with the long axis of the mounting plate. The handles are lower than on the 1617 and the switch handle can not be removed. This is because of the external power bus; not having a cord running from the handle mounted switch to the motor is a real plus. The $3 adjuster extension handle fits the 23, 1617 and 1619 models; Type 4 Musclechuck's fit these three models.

The only things people will not like is the fact that the 23 can not be used in a router lift and the plunge base is not recommended for table mounting.

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You're welcome. This question gets asked a lot, so one day I sat down and started writing and searched the internet for pictures and descriptions.

Cutting dadoes -hmmm seems there is always some dust left in the dado because it gets trapped. Making a second pass usually cleans it up.

Same goes for the little DeWalt.

Mike, Mike and Tom,

Thanks for all the information. I have a PC in my router table, Bench Dog lift and dust collection through the fence and box under the table - dust collection is through a 4" hose to my big collector and I get very little loose dust. The primary use for the new router, if I go that route, would be cutting dadoes when mounted on a track - on the table, there would be a fence at 90° to the track to locate the edge of the panel - a router mounted on the carriage moves parallel to the track/perpendicular to the panel when cutting dadoes, and this is where I need dust collection. However, I can see that the same router could be used for pattern routing when equipped with a base to accept guide bushings. I was very impressed with the demonstration of the Dewalt 621 in both videos that I posted, it didn't look as if any dust was getting out - this is what I'm looking for. I had forgotten about the Betterly; I'm going to give them a call and ask for some more information. The carriage mounting plate on the EZ is a piece of 1/2" UHMW, and the aluminum base of the Betterly is also 1/2" if I understood correctly so it would seem possible to modify the edge of the Betterly so that it could be mounted to the EZ carriage I really don't need another router - for example, I could fit the Betterly base to my PC plunge router - but it's easier to have a router set up for a specific job and not waste time swapping parts and pieces around. I typically reach for my PC 601 D-handle with Pat Warner offset base - but could swap the offset base for the Betterly for the same function but have dust collection too.

I'll do some checking on the Betterly and see what my options are. I wish that there was somewhere local that carries all these different models so I could get an idea of how they would feel in actual use,

Thanks again.

Tom