Router review KM12VC

21027 Views 15 Replies 7 Participants Last post by Mike, Nov 23, 2008

reible

Discussion Starter · Mar 25, 2005

I will brake this up into several posts. Since many of you figured out the code on my other post and know that the H model is the one I just got. Since I just got it and had trouble finding much information I thought I would collect it and post a review. For other Porter Cable users this might be interesting as to what things are usable from the 690 series (or simular).

KM 12VC Review

This is a new router on the market and since I did not find much information on it when I went surfing on the web I though I would do my own review and share it with you.

General information:

Made by Hitachi (Hitachi Koki)

“…the concept for more powerful, quiet and ergonomically styled models to plainly differentiate them from the competitors.”

Features:

Soft Start

Electronic Feedback

2 ¼ HP

11 Amp.

Variable Speed 8,000 to 24,000

Tool-less 2-stage motor release clamp

Extremely low noise level-only 80 dB

Nickel-plated housing for smooth cutting depth adjustment

Fixed and Plunge bases

1/2" and 1/4" Collates

7-piece pc template set

Template guide adapter

Centering gauge

Large hole sub base (with a flat edge) (total of 3 sub bases)

Wrenches

Single case

Weights:

W/Fixed base 7.3 pounds

W/Plunge base 9.9 pounds

Price:

Most places are selling it for $180 US

Some places are throwing in a free sander ($60 value)

I paid $159 including everything.

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JMAN

· #10 · Jul 7, 2005

reible said:
Now that I have had the router to use for a while I like it even more!

I find I go out of my way to use this router over the others I own so much so that I have decided to buy a second one. I went with the smaller version with fixed base only as I entend to table mount it and would have little use for the plunge base.

I happen to get a good deal on an opened but unused one, just over $100 US. I had been looking at the ones at Amazon and this one saved me another $30+ so I hope it wasn't dropped or damaged.... it is unused but... I still get a 30 day return period so the worst that can happen is I have to return it.

I should get it sometime next week...... can't wait!!!!!

The other think I want to mention is that it now carries a 5 year warranty. And if you get it at Amazon they have a free sander offer that might be worth looking at.

Ed

Ed,

thanks for posting a review. I just bought this router kit from Amazon for $180. I spent another $30 to get the $25 off tools purchases over $200 deal they had. Seems to be a great router for the $. A couple questions:

Where did you buy your for $160?

Also, after mortising about 6 doors, I noticed mine has a slight feeling of debris and little noise if I rotate the bit backwards by hand (when it is off of course

). Is it common for routers to get little pieces of debris in the bearings/fan?

Thanks,

J

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JMAN

· #12 · Jul 8, 2005

thanks for the tip on Internationaltools.com. just an FYI, I believe the free sander deal applies to any purchase of a M12 series router, not just Amazon. this is rebate form from the Hitachi web site:

http://www.hitachipowertools.com/images/contents/promotions/RPRT05.pdf

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JMAN

· #13 · Jul 9, 2005

reible said:
I picked up my first one at www.internationaltool.com, list $179.99 discount of $25 plus insurance $2.95 no tax = $157.94.....

Upcut bits are designed to get the chips out and towards the router so if you are using this type bit they are directed towards the router. With any router a clear path to get the chips out is a good idea but yes it is common for wood chips to go everywhere.... the bearings of most routers are sealed from the dust but it is a good idea to keep it clean. Even with sealed bearings the dust can wick out the lub, very little at a time mind you but after years????

Hope you enjoy yours as much as I have mine!

Ed

Ed, How did you get the $25 discount at Internationaltools?

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Router review KM12VC

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