The Bosch 1617 combo kit is what many of the others are styled after. Bosch is usually top rated in comparison testing. That being said, you are the one who needs to be comfortable with the controls, and they are all slightly different. Note: The PC 690 series is lower in HP than the other choices, the 890 series has had a lot of problems but if you get a good one you would love it. If you get the chance Dale, please try to use these routers before you buy. The better informed you are the better chance of happiness.
Router Research
I'm new to this forum.......But certainly not new to woodworking. I found this forum when researching which plunge router I should purchase. There are a lot out there. I was wondering if I could ask your opinion regarding which plunger router you recommend.........?
The router will be used primarily for mortising into oak and routing along pattern fixtures. I'm thinking a minimum of 2.25 H.P. and of course plunge. I know that there are kits out there providing both fixed base and plunge base and that's o.k. I'm not sure I need fixed base, but if that's what it takes, that's fine.
I have been looking at Triton, Bosch, Hitachi, Milwaukee, Porter Cable, Dewalt and Ridgid...............Which would you recommend based upon your experience?
Thanks for your help...
The router will be used primarily for mortising into oak and routing along pattern fixtures. I'm thinking a minimum of 2.25 H.P. and of course plunge. I know that there are kits out there providing both fixed base and plunge base and that's o.k. I'm not sure I need fixed base, but if that's what it takes, that's fine.
I have been looking at Triton, Bosch, Hitachi, Milwaukee, Porter Cable, Dewalt and Ridgid...............Which would you recommend based upon your experience?
Thanks for your help...
1 - 4 of 27 Posts
Dale, it is worth checking out Amazon.com's tool section. They have the new Hitachi M12 second edition for $197, and that is a good price for a 3-1/4 HP machine.
Dale, I have not used the Hitachi or Triton. Members have made good reports on the 3-1/4 HP Triton, and they were on sale for $199 recently. The truth is most brands are decent quality, and as long as you are pleased with the feel and controls they will do the job.
Tom, while it is still the most popular router sold world wide(because of how long it has been in production) the PC 690 is just a bit low on the power. Having owned both a PC 690 and a Bosch 1617 I can tell you the additional 3/4 hp makes a world of difference. Beyond that there is no comparison in ease of use, the Bosch wins hands down. Most of the combo kits on the market are styled after the 1617,
1 - 4 of 27 Posts
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