[Toolfreak]

Despite the fact that I own three routers, I'm very new to woodworking and am wondering what other routers I should own.

Currently, I own a 1-1/2hp Craftsman (a.k.a. "el cheapo!!") that I bought 5 years ago to make a pine chair-rail when I didn't know any better. That's pretty much the last time I used it. The only thing I like about it is the light that illuminates the workpiece when I pull the trigger. I wonder why more expensive routers don't have a built-in light?!!

Since then, I've received two other routers as gifts -- a Porter Cable 690LR and the new Bosch 1617EVSPK fixed/plunge base combo. I must say, the Bosch is the most fun to use!!!

I don't yet own a router table, but I've heard/read that you need at least a 3hp router for a table. Any recommendations?

- Toolfreak

 

[-Sam-]

I don't yet own a router table, but I've heard/read that you need at least a 3hp router for a table. Any recommendations?

- Toolfreak

Toolfreak,

No, you can use your Bosch 1617evspk on a router table like many of us do. I also own that same model and use it on my router table with excellent results!

 

[Bob N]

I don't yet own a router table, but I've heard/read that you need at least a 3hp router for a table. Any recommendations?

- Toolfreak

I have the DW618 which is 2 1/4 HP mounted in a table and it does all I need at this time. I believe the 3hp theory comes in if you are making door panels and spinning some very large bits.

 

[-Sam-]

I have the DW618 which is 2 1/4 HP mounted in a table and it does all I need at this time. I believe the 3hp theory comes in if you are making door panels and spinning some very large bits.

Yup, I agree!

 

[Woodnut65]

Hi, Toolfreak:
I have a 2 1/4HP router in my table, It's a makita. I use a PC 7539 3 1/4HP router to
do heavy work where I neeed to control the speed like when using panel cutters that are 3" or more. I would suggest the bosch you alread have be used in the table,
at least until you decide on what you are going to make with it. You may decide to leave the fixed sub base mounted iin the table that way you can pop out the motor unit to use with other bases. Hope this helps a little.. Woodnut65