Al, before anyone can answer this with good advice we need to know a bit more about how you intend to use the router. Occasional projects, production shop, something in between? There is no one answer that is right for everyone. For most home woodworkers something in the 2-1/4 hp range will do everything required of it. A combo kit gives you a less expensive option by using one motor in two bases for table mounting and free hand work. Having one of the large 3-1/4 hp routers is nice; the question is will you benefit from spending the extra money?

 

Now there is a loaded question in the respect you will not get a definitive answer in the forum. Everybody has their own router preference thereby giving you several choices.

My preference is the Porter-Cable 892 Router unless you plan on also buying a router lift for your table then the choices are numerable. The PC 892 alone gives the ability to adjust height, lock/unlock and change bits above the table. As I said that is my pick, but there are others that will work in the table also as you will learn.

 

The Bosch 1617EVSPK is a good universal choice. Like mentioned above it is the type that will give you the versatility of using different bases. But, really it all does depend on what you will be using it for, table, etc. For most home projects for the average home woodworker, a 2.25 is enough power to do the job. Just my 2 cents.





woodrouterreviewsguy, Best Wood Router Reviews

 

Routers

Am looking to upgrade from a shaper table to a router rable. Perhaps build my own table, then purchase the router and base mechanism.
Noticed some interesting fences onThe Woodwhisper.com.
Have read a router with at least a 3 to 4 hp rating is good. What are your recommendations.
Thank you very much.
Thank you for the replies.
I am retired have a small woodshop of my own.
Been doing custom work for years.
Would like to expand my knowledge and ability employing the touter more effectively and with increased perfection.
Look to manufacture custom jewerly boxes, various customc cabinets, furniture etc.
Must start at the bottom. Thought I'd make the base cabinet myself, purchase a good top with the ability to vertically adjust the height of the cut and lock it, change various base plates along with a quality fence. The of course dust retrieval.
Will check out the PC 892 and the Bosch 1617EVSPR.
Looking forward to more info.
Thank You.
Al

 

Bosch 1617EVSPK 2 1/4 HP Looks not bad ...
Been readind the doc:
http://www.routerforums.com/attachm...s/42326d1300120812-bosch-1617evs-router-manual-parts-bosch-1617evs-om-parts.pdf

It has 2 springs one each collum, that a necessity for a good pluge router.

And using fixed base there is a fine hex depht ajustment, could use a battery screwdriver.

Not so frequent the need of 3Hp and super heavy in hand held use.

Regards