Router recommendation

[Paul Ebert]

I need to buy a router. The primary need is for something to route driver and port holes / recesses. It needs to have excellent dust collection. The maximum budget is $200 or so.

What I'd like to do is buy a Dewalt DW621, but it's a bit expensive. Any suggestions?

[kmibb]

Re: Router recommendation

I need to buy a router. The primary need is for something to route driver and port holes / recesses. It needs to have excellent dust collection. The maximum budget is $200 or so.

What I'd like to do is buy a Dewalt DW621, but it's a bit expensive. Any suggestions?

Save up and buy the Dewalt.

[donparsons]

Re: Router recommendation

I love my DeWalt 621.

[Jonathan Anspach]

Re: Router recommendation

The only thing better than a DW621 is a used DW621 at a great price.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Dewalt-DW-621-2-...item2eb2597bd4

Not my auction, BTW.

[kornphlake]

Re: Router recommendation

Honestly, I think the best dust collection system is a system built into a router table. If dust collection is your top priority pick any router and put it into a good table, unfortunately it's not real convenient to route circles on a router table. I seem to recall reading that the dust collection on the Dewalt is mediocre at best, you might want to read up on it before you buy something. I imagine the vac hose would be a nuisance when routing circles anyway.

[jcandy]

Re: Router recommendation

For speaker building, a Porter-Cable 690LRVS variable-speed router with additional plunge base and benchtop router table would be the top recommendation.

I think having just the Dewalt DW621 is very limiting. The plunge capability is required for cutting holes, the variable speed is wise when using larger-radius roundover bits, the fixed base is needed for flush-trim work, and the table is also needed when working with larger bits, or working with smaller stock. For dust-collection, however, I think you'd need to pick one of the aftermarket units.

[jimlg]

Re: Router recommendation

I bought a Hitachi M12v2 on ebay for under 100 and I am really impressed with the 3+ hp power as compared to the 2hp I use on my circle jig. It handles a 1" roundover really well. It also has integrated dust collection, but I need to test it before I say it works great. I've used it, but my shop vac quit.

James

[Paul Ebert]

Re: Router recommendation

The only thing better than a DW621 is a used DW621 at a great price.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Dewalt-DW-621-2-...item2eb2597bd4

Not my auction, BTW.

This went on my watch list this morning. I watched some auctions a year ago and they all went up to around $160, at which point I'd rather buy new (best deal I've found for a new one is $200). But, I'll be very interested in where this one ends up and will probably place a bid or two.

I have a Dewalt DW625 (3 hp) that I use in my router table and for when the power is needed. But my 625 does not have dust collection. The MDF dust gets all over the shop when I route the driver holes which has become unacceptable to me.

[Paul Ebert]

Re: Router recommendation

...For dust-collection, however, I think you'd need to pick one of the aftermarket units.

I'm not sure what you mean by aftermarket units. Could you elaborate?

[MrkCrwly]

Re: Router recommendation

I think having just the Dewalt DW621 is very limiting. The plunge capability is required for cutting holes, the variable speed is wise when using larger-radius roundover bits, the fixed base is needed for flush-trim work, .

Not sure why you think a fixed base is needed for flush-trim work. The 621 easily locks secure at any depth and the elec speed control makes cutting/trimming effortless. Where I don't like plunge router is using them on a router table. The springs work really good when the router is upside down.
I need to buy a dedicated router for my table and it would also really be nice to have a small laminate router for lighter work.

[Paul K.]

Re: Router recommendation

You read wrong or the info you read was wrong because the dust collection is very good on the DeWalt 621. I rigged up a vacuum hose suspension in the ceiling rafters in my basement workshop so that the extra long hose I use is above the router, and that added to the swiveling dust port head on the router makes cutting circles no problem.
Paul

Honestly, I think the best dust collection system is a system built into a router table. If dust collection is your top priority pick any router and put it into a good table, unfortunately it's not real convenient to route circles on a router table. I seem to recall reading that the dust collection on the Dewalt is mediocre at best, you might want to read up on it before you buy something. I imagine the vac hose would be a nuisance when routing circles anyway.

[tpremo55]

Re: Router recommendation

I've been promoting an oft overlooked option. The newer Craftsman routers are EXCELLENT!

I've had older versions that are door stops, but as of about 2-3 years ago, they started with a manufacturer that seems to make a great product.

Look at this.


I have the $89 version that has a plate for Excellent dust collection via a standard shop vac. See the photo below for a quick tip on further improving the collection efficiency. I can use this on MDF curring driver port and terminal cup cutouts in my basement shop with virtually no dust loss to the air. I've not seen or heard about a $89 router that works as well. I've had this for 3 years and have cut hundreds of holes - still accurate and my go-to router (I have three total). Maybe the best router for the money - I'm sure I'll get disagreement.



Check out my response to THIS thread as well.

I don't usually promote a product this strongly, but I believe these to be a strong best-buy. While PorterCable is still a better router, the quality margin is probably less than 10% while the price is greater than 50%.

[tpremo55]

Re: Router recommendation

I've also provided commentary in THIS thread.

[mattk]

Re: Router recommendation

I really like my Bosch:

http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-1617EVSP...4190283&sr=8-1

I had wanted a Triton (which get rave reviews), but everyone was out of stock when I needed a new router.

That Craftsman does look good for the money.

[brookbh]

Re: Router recommendation

I have the Bosch 1617 kit as well, and it's very nice. I chose the Bosch over the Dewalt and have never regretted it.